Modesty in dress, especially in places of worship, must always be guided by principles of reverence, respect, and sensitivity to the setting. Seventh-day Adventists are people who view attire as a way to glorify God in the solemnity of worship, particularly for those leading in visible roles like choir members. Wearing revealing clothing such as mini skirts and large diamond-patterned fishnet stockings is absolutely drawing attention to oneself rather than focusing attention on God. Worship is not just about your personal expression; it’s about setting an example and helping maintain an atmosphere of reverence and awe, especially when standing before a congregation. Tragically, these expectations and standards of dress are falling by the wayside.
The Mount Vernon SDA Church held its annual Ladies Day Celebration on May 17, 2025, at 5:00 p.m., featuring a live concert by the musical group “Determined.” During the event, one of the singers took the stage to lead out in worship wearing a short mini skirt and large diamond fishnet stockings, which reveal more skin than the smaller diamonds. As she began praising and thanking God, she invited the congregation to join her in worship.
Fishnet stockings originated in Paris as part of a countercultural movement that deliberately challenged traditional standards of modesty in women’s fashion. [1] These provocative garments have long been associated with environments and expressions that stand in stark contrast to the sacred atmosphere of worship. Their history is rooted in rebellion against modest dress, making them inappropriate attire for church settings that call for reverence, dignity, and respect.
Our houses of worship are meant to be places that uplift the soul, draw attention to God rather than the individual, and foster an atmosphere of purity and spiritual focus. Our clothing choices must be modest and reflect the sacred purpose of the gathering rather than draw from styles rooted in environments or messages that contradict the mission of the church.
I understand that when addressing sensitive matters, we must approach them with compassion; however, it is equally important to speak with clarity, guided not by emotion but by the truth of Scripture. The Bible encourages believers, especially women, to dress with a dignity and modesty that reflects a heart devoted to God. In 1 Timothy 2:9, Paul writes, “In like manner also, that women adorn themselves in modest apparel, with shamefacedness and sobriety.” This verse highlights the importance of clothing that is respectful and not designed to draw undue attention.
Likewise, 1 Peter 3:3-4 says, “Whose adorning let it not be that outward adorning of plaiting the hair, and of wearing of gold, or of putting on of apparel; But let it be the hidden man of the heart,” emphasizing inner character over flashy outward appearance. The church is a sacred space where our focus should be on worship, not personal display. It is unbecoming and distracting when attendees—particularly those in leadership roles—dress in a way that reflects immodest or worldly fashion trends. Instead, our attire should reflect reverence, respect, and the holy purpose of gathering before God.
In the various prisons where I am blessed to minister, I’ve witnessed women being turned away for wearing similar attire when visiting loved ones. Correctional facilities uphold specific dress standards and expect a level of professionalism within their institutions. How much more, then, should the church of the living, holy God uphold clear expectations for those who stand before the congregation?
Sources
[1] https://www.foottraffic.com/product/fishnet-stockings-who-wears-them
When I first read this title, I interpreted it that there was a woman playing the part of Jesus wearing a mini skirt and fishnet stockings and was receiving praise from a choir leader! Maybe adding the word “while” would’ve helped me:
“ A Choir Leader Praises Jesus WHILE Wearing a Miniskirt and Large Fishnet Stockings at an SDA Church”.
This made me laugh at myself how the title could be interpreted two different ways ways.
Andy, Is it possible to contact the group and the leader and give a personal appeal to her instead of exposing her nakedness before the world. A personal appeal in love may help her to see her sin and repent. I am sure if she sees this feed, she will not be a happy camper. Please consider not exposing our stuff for the world to see.
It’s already out in the world when they decided to go public and publish it on YouTube.
They themselves post uploaded the video for the whole world to see. Public sin must be dealt publicly. She is not a new Christian. These people are demonic ones trying to destroy the SDA Church. Pastors don’t say anything. They’ll pay 10 times more than members.
Low light (spiritualism), red dresses (sinfulness), mini skirt (sensuality), worldly music (false worship)… Who’s responsable?
Jer. 50: 6 My people (SDA) hath been lost sheep: their shepherds have caused them to go astray, they have turned them away on the mountains: they have gone from mountain to hill, they have forgotten their restingplace.
The high heels, form fitting dresses as well as the one with one shoulder exposed, the hair and nail extensions and makeup are also immodest. Essentially, the entire group is attired in a manner inconsistent with our profession of faith.
Leonard you’re trying to make a public disgrace into a private matter between two people. The Apostle Paul said of public sins: “…them that sin REBUKE BEFORE ALL…”