Pastor Jamal Bryant addressed a growing online controversy about his wife’s attire during a New Year’s Eve church service, telling critics to “mind your business” and urging the public to focus on more pressing issues.
The dispute began after photos and videos circulated on social media showing Dr. Karri Turner in a gown with a nude-colored lining at a recent gala-style event, not a church service. Some online commentators questioned whether the dress was appropriate for the spouse of a pastor, sparking debate about modesty, expectations of church leadership, and personal expression.
From the pulpit at New Birth Missionary Baptist Church on December 31, Bryant made a direct response to the criticism. He confirmed that he purchased and approved the dress himself and emphasized that outside opinions had no bearing on his wife’s choices. “Wear your dress, Karisha,” he said, underscoring his full support.
The pastor later shared a clip from his sermon on Instagram, using the caption to shift the conversation away from fashion and toward systemic issues he believes deserve greater attention. Among the priorities he highlighted were Black unemployment, protections for undocumented people, healthcare access for underserved communities, and higher education. He also noted that more than 100 people were saved during the service and over 1,000 children participated in the church’s youth program, closing his message with: “It’s UP from here.”
The online debate around the dress touched on broader questions about how church leaders’ spouses are perceived and judged, particularly in Black church communities. While some interpreted the gown’s style as too revealing, others defended Turner’s right to choose her attire, pointing out that there is no single biblical dress code for pastors’ spouses and that expectations vary widely by denomination and cultural context.
Bryant’s firm response — centering his marriage over internet commentary — was intended to shut down the distraction and redirect attention to more substantive matters affecting his congregation and community.
