Monsignor Jamie Gigantiello was stripped of pastoral duties due to mismanagement allegations, intensified by incidents related to a music video filmed in Our Lady of Mount Carmel Church. The Diocese revealed additional financial improprieties spurring further scrutiny.**
Controversy Erupts as Church Priest Dismissed Following Pop Star's Music Video Shoot**
Controversy Erupts as Church Priest Dismissed Following Pop Star's Music Video Shoot**
A New York priest faces removal and investigation by the Diocese after allowing Sabrina Carpenter to film provocative scenes in his church.**
Monsignor Jamie Gigantiello, a priest in New York, has been dismissed from his duties following a provocative music video shoot by pop star Sabrina Carpenter in his church. The Roman Catholic Diocese of Brooklyn announced the removal of Gigantiello from "any pastoral oversight or governance role" amidst claims of financial mismanagement that arose during the investigation of the video.
The October 2023 release of Carpenter's music video for her song "Feather," filmed inside Our Lady of Mount Carmel Church, sparked controversy due to its suggestive content, including disrespectful imagery and scenes showing Carpenter dancing on the altar. In light of the backlash, the Diocese conducted an investigation that uncovered troubling financial practices. According to a statement from Bishop Robert Brennan, the findings highlighted "serious violations of Diocesan policies and protocols."
In a letter to parishioners, Gigantiello admitted that permitting Carpenter to film in the church was a "lapse in judgment." His administrative responsibilities were curtailed as soon as last November amid the growing criticism, and he was stripped of his fundraising duties shortly thereafter. The inquiry led by Alvarez & Marsal and Sullivan & Cromwell LLP also revealed unauthorized financial activities, including Gigantiello's improper use of a credit card for personal expenses.
Moreover, the investigation revealed that between 2019 and 2021, Gigantiello transferred nearly $2 million to bank accounts connected to a former aide of New York City Mayor Eric Adams, who was indicted on multiple charges, including bribery and accepting illegal campaign contributions. This revelation adds another layer to the series of investigations that have rattled the leadership within New York City's administration and raised questions about accountability within the church hierarchy.
The removal of Gigantiello serves not only as a response to the controversy surrounding Carpenter's video but also highlights broader issues of governance and integrity within religious institutions. As investigations continue, both local communities and church officials are keenly observing the developments in this unfolding saga.
