“You’re a teaser, you turn them on…”
A recent video of Julie Anne San Jose received backlash from netizens; why? Because “Asia’s Limitless Star” wore a backless, fitted glittery gown with a slit, while singing the ABBA hit, “Dancing Queen” at a Catholic church altar! There were even moving head lights surrounding the altar itself, imitating what a concert looks like.
According to Sparkle GMA Artist Center’s post, “She brought the sparkle as the special guest performer at the ‘Heavenly Harmony in Concert’ (Harana para kay Maria) held at Nuestra Señora Del Pilar Shrine, Mamburao, Occidental Mindoro.”
The post garnered angry reactions from netizens and comments relating to the Code of Canon Law including the fact that the song “Dancing Queen” has lyrics not applicable to be used for worship nor to be sung inside sacred premises.
What Is The Code of Canon Law?
The Code of Canon Law is a set of laws governing the Catholic Church and according to Can. 1210, “Only those things which serve the exercise or promotion of worship, piety, or religion are permitted in a sacred place; anything not consonant with the holiness of the place is forbidden. In an individual case, however, the ordinary can permit other uses which are not contrary to the holiness of the place.”
Although the intent of Julie Anne was to celebrate and sing a joyous song for Mary and the public, the outfit she wore and the song choice wasn’t consonant to where the performance was held. But, it should also be noted that the second portion of the Canon indicated that as long as it is permitted by the ordinary or church officer, then contrary uses not related to the “holiness” of the church can be done.
Other celebrities who received negative feedback from the public with regards to the usage of a church’s premises included Sabrina Carpenter in her “Feather” music video and Le Sserafim’s “Easy” song where religious imagery can be seen as part of their video.
So, what’s your take on this, Sugboanons? Should churches allow similar performances AT THE ALTAR, or should religious premises be guarded against such actions? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
Church authorities concerned together with the irreverent performers should be made to account for committing sacrilege during a concert held at Nuestra Señora Del Pilar Shrine, Mamburao, Occidental Mindoro. People of faith cannot imagine how this could have been permitted. Other churches even implement codes of prohibition against the mere wearing of what could be considered disrespectful attire.