NYC Priest Faces Further Consequences After Allowing Sabrina Carpenter’s Church Music Video

Administrative powers of Monsignor Jamie Gigantiello have been revoked following backlash from the music video for Sabrina Carpenter’s hit song “Feather,” released in late October 2023.

In a decisive move, Bishop Robert Brennan announced that Gigantiello, who presided over Our Lady of Mount Carmel – Annunciation Parish in Brooklyn, will no longer hold any governance role at the church. This decision comes on the heels of an investigation that unveiled multiple instances of mismanagement.

The inquiry, which included the audit partners Alvarez & Marsal and Sullivan & Cromwell LLP, revealed serious violations of Diocesan policies. Gigantiello was found to have made unauthorized financial transfers to a former aide to New York City Mayor Eric Adams, leading to further scrutiny amid a larger corruption investigation.

Bishop Brennan expressed sadness about the findings, emphasizing the importance of public trust and the safeguarding of church funds. In his statement, he announced the appointment of Bishop Witold Mroziewski to oversee the parish in Gigantiello’s absence, granting him complete authority, including liturgical matters.

Criticism of Gigantiello intensified after Carpenter’s music video depicted controversial and provocative themes, including scenes filmed outside the church. Released on October 31, the video portrays negative behavior towards Carpenter’s character, culminating in the perpetrators meeting grisly fates.

In response to the backlash, Gigantiello described his approval of the shoot as a “lapse in judgment,” asserting he was not present during filming. However, this incident catalyzed the wider investigative review which unveiled further financial improprieties. Notably, it was revealed that Gigantiello used a church credit card for significant personal expenses.

Between 2019 and 2021, approximately $1.9 million from parish funds was transferred to accounts linked to Frank Carone, former chief of staff to Mayor Adams. Bishop Brennan noted that these transactions did not receive prior approval and lacked proper documentation, breaching investment protocols.

While Carone’s law firm has repaid $1 million plus interest, concerns persist over the remaining funds and Gigantiello’s request for early repayment without stipulated interest. U.S. federal investigators have subpoenaed the church for details on these financial dealings, although neither Carone nor Gigantiello faces charges at this time.

Bishop Brennan reaffirmed the diocese’s commitment to cooperating fully with law enforcement investigations. Meanwhile, Carpenter appeared to acknowledge the controversy surrounding her music video during a recent concert, jokingly asking if her actions had contributed to the mayor’s indictment.

As the situation develops, the church community awaits further announcements regarding oversight and governance.