Summary (tl;dr)

Gospel singer and pastor Donnie McClurkin is currently facing a civil lawsuit, filed on January 2, 2026, alleging sexual abuse of a young male congregant over several years, claims that McClurkin vehemently denies.

Essential Background

Donnie McClurkin is a highly acclaimed, three-time Grammy Award-winning American gospel singer, minister, and senior pastor of Perfecting Faith Church in Freeport, New York. Throughout his career, he has been a prominent figure in gospel music, known for selling millions of albums and openly discussing his personal journey of overcoming homosexuality through faith, a stance that has garnered both support and controversy. Recently, in August 2025, McClurkin announced his upcoming album, "FINALLY," would be his last studio project, marking the end of a nearly three-decade recording career. He also experienced a serious health crisis in September 2025, from which he made a recovery and planned to return to public appearances in 2026.

The Full Story

Donnie McClurkin is trending due to a civil lawsuit filed against him on Friday, January 2, 2026, in the New York State Supreme Court in Manhattan. The lawsuit, brought by Giuseppe Corletto, alleges that McClurkin sexually abused him over nearly a decade, between 2007 and 2015. Corletto claims he first sought out McClurkin's guidance in 2003, at age 21, while struggling to reconcile his sexuality with his Christian faith, after reading McClurkin's autobiographical book about overcoming homosexuality. The lawsuit details that what began as spiritual mentorship at McClurkin's church in Long Island, New York, allegedly escalated into grooming and abuse during "pray the gay away" spiritual sessions. The complaint further alleges that the misconduct continued intermittently across several states, including incidents in Florida, Boston, and Niagara Falls, and that Corletto subsequently worked as McClurkin's assistant, making it difficult to speak out. An alleged 2013 email from McClurkin is included in the suit, in which he purportedly apologizes for his actions, referring to himself as a "desperate dirty 'old man'" and admitting to forcing himself on Corletto. McClurkin, through his attorney, Greg Lisi, has vehemently denied all allegations, stating they are "categorically false" and mischaracterize their interactions.

Why It Matters

This lawsuit is significant as it brings serious sexual abuse allegations against a highly influential figure in gospel music and ministry, potentially impacting his legacy and public standing. The accusations, particularly those tied to "pray the gay away" spiritual sessions, raise concerns about the vulnerabilities of individuals seeking spiritual guidance and the responsibilities of spiritual leaders. The case is likely to prompt discussions within religious communities about accountability, mentorship, and how faith leaders address issues of sexuality and abuse. McClurkin's denial of the "categorically false" claims means the legal proceedings will be closely watched, with implications for both the accuser and the gospel music industry.

Geographic Location

• Manhattan, New York County, New York, United States (location where civil lawsuit was filed)
• Freeport, Nassau County, New York, United States (location of Perfecting Faith Church, where Corletto reportedly joined)
• Boston, Suffolk County, Massachusetts, United States (alleged location of some incidents)
• Niagara Falls, Niagara County, New York, United States (alleged location of a sexual assault in a hotel in 2013)
• Florida, United States (alleged location of some incidents)