Monsignor Jamie Gigantiello, formerly of Our Lady of Mount Carmel, was relieved of his duties following an investigation into his financial and administrative conduct.
Music Video Controversy Leads to Priest's Dismissal at Brooklyn Church
Music Video Controversy Leads to Priest's Dismissal at Brooklyn Church
A New York priest has lost his position after permitting controversial music video filming in his church.
The Diocese of Brooklyn's investigation revealed serious policy violations, including the controversial music video by pop star Sabrina Carpenter that showcased provocative scenes within the church, leading to Gigantiello's dismissal.
In October 2023, pop singer Sabrina Carpenter caused a stir with her provocative music video “Feather,” filmed within the Our Lady of Mount Carmel Church in Brooklyn, New York. The video featured scenes such as Carpenter dancing on the altar in a revealing black dress and a crucifix emblazoned with profanity—prompting outrage and concern from church officials.
Following the video’s release, the Roman Catholic Diocese of Brooklyn initiated investigations that not only scrutinized the filming but also uncovered other serious issues of mismanagement linked to Monsignor Jamie Gigantiello, who has now been stripped of all pastoral and governance roles within the church.
Bishop Robert Brennan stated in a public announcement that findings from investigations carried out by Alvarez & Marsal and Sullivan & Cromwell LLP revealed numerous violations of Diocesan protocols, including unauthorized financial transactions, which have alarmed church authorities. As a result of these findings, Gigantiello was removed from his responsibilities and had his administrative powers revoked last November.
Additionally, it surfaced that Gigantiello had used church funds improperly, having transferred almost $2 million to bank accounts associated with a former aide to New York City Mayor Eric Adams, who was indicted in September on charges, including bribery. The fallout from these financial misdeeds and controversies surrounding the music video has sparked wider discussions about accountability within church leadership as well as the intersection of faith and pop culture.
In October 2023, pop singer Sabrina Carpenter caused a stir with her provocative music video “Feather,” filmed within the Our Lady of Mount Carmel Church in Brooklyn, New York. The video featured scenes such as Carpenter dancing on the altar in a revealing black dress and a crucifix emblazoned with profanity—prompting outrage and concern from church officials.
Following the video’s release, the Roman Catholic Diocese of Brooklyn initiated investigations that not only scrutinized the filming but also uncovered other serious issues of mismanagement linked to Monsignor Jamie Gigantiello, who has now been stripped of all pastoral and governance roles within the church.
Bishop Robert Brennan stated in a public announcement that findings from investigations carried out by Alvarez & Marsal and Sullivan & Cromwell LLP revealed numerous violations of Diocesan protocols, including unauthorized financial transactions, which have alarmed church authorities. As a result of these findings, Gigantiello was removed from his responsibilities and had his administrative powers revoked last November.
Additionally, it surfaced that Gigantiello had used church funds improperly, having transferred almost $2 million to bank accounts associated with a former aide to New York City Mayor Eric Adams, who was indicted in September on charges, including bribery. The fallout from these financial misdeeds and controversies surrounding the music video has sparked wider discussions about accountability within church leadership as well as the intersection of faith and pop culture.
