For fans, the performance also recalled Deloris Van Cartier, another singing nun whose name appeared repeatedly in the video’s comments. Whoopi Goldberg most famously portrayed Deloris in the 1992 film “Sister Act,” placing Sister Bernadette in notable fictional company through the viewers’ comparison.

The source also points to Goldberg’s reunion with cast members for a performance of “Oh Happy Day” from “Sister Act 2.” Their energy and enthusiasm were likened to the qualities Sister Bernadette brought to her own appearance, helping explain why so many commenters made the connection between the two singing nuns.

More broadly, the video served as a warning against relying on appearances. People may assume that nuns are invariably serious or committed only to tradition, but Sister Bernadette’s exuberant rock performance contradicted that expectation. Her enjoyment reached listeners around the world and gave them joy, turning what initially resembled a solemn hymn into a memorable surprise.