Priest steps down after filming with Lily Phillips inside cathedral

An unfortunate case of crossed wires has resulted in the self-banishment of a priest from his church in Brisbane, Australia.

Perhaps rather naively, St John's Cathedral dean Peter Catt agreed for a docuseries to be filmed on the premises, involving adult content creator Lily Phillips.

The 125-year-old building was ultimately featured in the sixth episode of the Stan series, which was titled Turned On: Dirty Sexy Money without his knowledge.

In it, Phillips attempted to reconnect with Christianity as facilitated by Catt — asking whether she'd renounced evil and repented for her sins after working in the sex industry. They then proceeded to take part in communion.

When the finished product controversially used footage of Catt's congregation though, a line was crossed, leading to him terminating his own role at the cathedral.

Dean Peter Catt has relinquished his duties at St John's Cathedral (Anglican Focus/Stan)

Per 7News, the dean announced his decision in a letter following a period of 'prayerful reflection' and council with Brisbane archbishop Jeremy Greaves this week.

Writing directly to his community, Catt claimed he was 'deeply saddened by the impact on all concerned' and had arrived at the conclusion that it was time for him to wrap up 'this chapter of his ministry'.

"It was my decision for the cathedral to participate in a television show that was later named Turned On: Dirty Sexy Money," he wrote.

"I come from a place of faith, love and acceptance and I believe everyone has the right to connect with their faith. But, I understand my decision has caused distress and concern within the faith community.

"My arrangement with the producers was limited to my own participation and no other members of the cathedral community. However, footage taken during filming, including members of our congregation and children, was included in the programme when it first aired. I deeply regret that this happened and unreservedly apologise.

"The producers have apologised and acknowledged their error in accidentally including members of the congregation, and have blurred or removed anyone who was shown," Catt went on to clarify.

His final day in post will be Sunday, 27 September.

This comes after Phillips admitted to regretting faking a pregnancy in an interview with Metro.

The 25-year-old announced her baby news back in February 2025, sharing photos of herself cradling what appeared to be a bump, plus two positive pregnancy tests.

"I think when you are constantly evolving and learning on the job, you do make mistakes, and it's awkward for me because that mistake is in the public eye," she said.

"I didn't realise how much effect it would have on women and deep down what I was putting out there. I am sorry, and I regret doing that."