Two religious statues were defaced outside Our Lady of Mount Carmel Church in Williamsburg, while a third statue was overturned last Tuesday evening. The defacement consisted of drawing the famed facial masks worn by the 1970s rock group KISS onto the faces of the Madonna and child in an effort to make them look like rockers Gene Simmons and Paul Stanley, the names behind KISSes’ extravagant make-up.
The nature of the vandalism is so far the only lead the police have.
“We are looking for a KISS fan,” said Deputy Inspector Terence Hurson, the commanding officer of the 94th Precinct.In an outpouring of support, many people have offered to pay for repairs, said Pastor Joseph Calis. The Pastor is referring all inquiries to the Roman Catholic Diocese of Brooklyn.
Democratic Councilman Steve Levin, who also plays bass guitar and described his religious affiliation as “praying at the temple of rock and roll,” also condemned the defilement of the church.
“I have no kind words for whoever did this — they are in very serious trouble if they get caught,” said Levin. “They do a real disservice to rock and roll.”Representatives for the KISS bassist Gene Simmons did not comment on the event, but it is interesting to note that Gene Simmons attended the Williamsburg religious school Yeshiva Torah Vodaas which subsequently moved to Kensington.
