Scandal in Brazil: Priest Caught With Church Member’s Fiancée Inside Parish House Sparks Outrage

Viral video from Nova Maringá, Mato Grosso, raises global debate on priest celibacy and church credibility

A shocking video circulating on social media shows Father Luciano Braga Simplício, from Nossa Senhora Aparecida Parish in Nova Maringá, Mato Grosso (Brazil), allegedly inside the parish residence with the fiancée of one of his own church members.

The footage has caused a wave of outrage in the small town of just over 5,000 residents — and has now drawn international attention.

Viral video

Scandal in Brazil: Alleged Priest Caught With Engaged Woman in Nova Maringá

A viral video from Nova Maringá, Brazil, shows the dramatic moment when relatives find an engaged woman hiding under the sink beside an alleged priest. Watch and read more on Lapada!

According to information obtained by the Lapada News website, Father Luciano has not issued an official statement. In an audio shared on social media, the priest denies any romantic involvement, claiming that the young woman had only asked permission to use the room and take a shower.

🔍 Catholic Church opens internal investigation

The Lapada website consulted the 1983 Code of Canon Law, promulgated by Pope John Paul II, which explicitly forbids priests of the Latin Rite from engaging in romantic or sexual relationships.

Violation of celibacy is considered a serious offense that can undermine the credibility of the Church and its clergy.

Perícia confirma sete golpes de faca em vítima assassinada em casa

According to Canon Law, penalties may include formal warnings, temporary suspension from priestly duties, or even reduction to the lay state — meaning the priest loses his right to exercise ministry functions.

The Diocese of Diamantino (Mato Grosso) released a statement confirming that an internal investigation has been opened to examine the priest’s conduct. Disciplinary measures may follow depending on the evidence, the gravity of the situation, and whether it is a repeated behavior.

⚖️ Church Tribunal and Police also monitoring the case

The Interdiocesan Ecclesiastical Tribunal of Cuiabá declined to comment, stating that cases like this are handled under “official secrecy”, as determined by the Vatican.

Meanwhile, the Civil Police of Mato Grosso confirmed that the 21-year-old woman involved has filed a police report for unauthorized sharing of images on Monday (13).

The case may also lead to criminal proceedings related to privacy violations.

💬 Heated online reactions

The viral video has sparked intense online debate, dividing opinions among the faithful.

Some demand the priest’s immediate suspension, while others call for patience until the church concludes its canonical investigation.

Phrases such as “Brazil priest scandal,” “priest caught with bride,” “Catholic celibacy violation,” “Nova Maringá Mato Grosso” are currently trending across international search engines.

Mulher alega legítima defesa, mas vítima sofreu sete golpes fatais