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The head of a Brisbane church that was featured in a reality show about sex workers has announced he will resign.
The Very Reverend Dr Peter Catt confirmed in a public letter on Thursday he would step down as Dean of Brisbane, after appearing in the Stan program Turned On: Dirty Sexy Money at St John’s Cathedral.
The Dean said he was misled by producers when he oversaw a reaffirmation ceremony for OnlyFans star Lily Philips, alongside other online performers at the historic venue on Ann Street.
“After prayerful reflection and consultation with the Archbishop and Cathedral team, I have decided to retire,” Catt said.
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“I understand my decision has caused distress and concern within the faith community.
“I was told the show was a documentary about an influencer seeking to reconnect with her Christian faith, and there was no commercial arrangement.
“The show that aired is very different from what I envisaged and agreed to.”
He apologised that other members of the congregation had been pictured in the background of the program, and said producers had since agreed to retroactively blur faces.
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“I am deeply saddened by the impact of this situation on all concerned and therefore came to realise that it is time for me to conclude this chapter of ministry.”
Catt said he would return from annual leave in mid-September, and hold a final Sunday service on September 27.
The program which was launched in June drew backlash in the Anglican community, prompting Archbishop Jeremy Greaves to issue an apology in August.
This masthead has contacted Stan for comment.
When the matter first attracted public attention, production company Mischief & Wonder told Nine Queensland the Dean had given his full blessing for filming to be conducted on site.
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William Davis is a reporter at Brisbane Times.Connect via email.AdvertisementAdvertisement