Parish Priest Apologizes for Julie Anne San Jose’s Church Performance
FR. CARLITO MEIM DIMAAÑO – The parish priest of the Nuestra Señora del Pilar Shrine and Parish in Mamburao, Occidental Mindoro, issued an official apology following the “Heavenly Harmony Concert” held on October 6, 2024, featuring Julie Anne San Jose.
The event faced backlash for its concert-like nature inside the church. Although Julie Anne San Jose and the Sparkle GMA Artist Center had already apologized, Fr. Dimaano took full responsibility, acknowledging the errors in their decisions and asking for forgiveness from everyone affected.
In his statement, Fr. Dimaano humbly admitted their mistakes and expressed regret for the hurt caused by the secular concert within the church. He also apologized directly to Julie Anne San Jose, Jessica Villarubin, and his superior, Bishop Pablito Tagura. He vowed to learn from the incident and promised that such events would not be repeated.
The controversy arose when videos of Julie Anne San Jose performing in front of the altar, singing songs like “Dancing Queen” by ABBA, “The Climb” by Miley Cyrus, and “Edge of Glory” by Lady Gaga, were shared on social media. Critics quickly pointed out that her song choices and attire were inappropriate for a church setting.
Despite the backlash, the church clarified that the event’s proceeds would be used to improve the parish. Fr. Dimaano expressed his wish to handle the tribute to Mary differently if given another chance, emphasizing his commitment to making amends and preventing similar incidents in the future.
Meanwhile, many people considered her performance inappropriate because it took place in a church, a space traditionally reserved for worship and prayer. Critics felt that performing secular songs in front of the altar did not align with the church’s sacred and solemn atmosphere, disrupting its intended purpose of reverence and devotion.