Brooklyn Priest Ousted After Financial Scandal and Sabrina Carpenter Video Controversy
The pastor of a Brooklyn church, thrust into the spotlight after hosting a controversial music video shoot, has been removed from his duties following revelations of financial misconduct and other serious violations.
Monsignor Jamie Gigantiello, who led Our Lady of Mount Carmel – Annunciation Parish in Williamsburg, was stripped of his administrative and pastoral roles by Bishop Robert Brennan of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Brooklyn. The investigation revealed unauthorized financial dealings, including the transfer of $1.9 million to accounts tied to a former top aide to New York City Mayor Eric Adams.
“This is a difficult but necessary decision,” Bishop Brennan stated. “Our investigations revealed serious breaches of diocesan policies and protocols that endangered parish resources and public trust.”
Sabrina Carpenter’s Music Video Fallout
The church came under scrutiny in late 2023 when pop star Sabrina Carpenter filmed her music video for “Feather” at the parish. The provocative video featured Carpenter dancing at the church’s altar in a short black dress and veil, sparking outrage among parishioners and church officials, who were appalled by the perceived disrespect to their sacred space.
The diocese condemned the video, labeling it “appalling” and accusing Gigantiello of failing to follow proper procedures for approving the shoot. Gigantiello later admitted the decision was a “lapse in judgment” and claimed he was unaware of the video’s provocative content.
The video controversy prompted a deeper investigation into the church’s operations, ultimately uncovering significant financial irregularities.
Financial Misconduct and Corruption Links
The investigation revealed that Gigantiello transferred $1.9 million in church funds to accounts linked to Frank Carone, a former top aide to Mayor Eric Adams, who is currently under federal investigation for corruption.
Carone’s law firm repaid $1 million of the funds with 9% interest, but Bishop Brennan noted that Gigantiello failed to enforce significant interest payments on the remaining balance, violating loan agreements. Investigators also found that Gigantiello used a church credit card for personal expenses and bypassed required approvals for financial transactions, violating diocesan policies.
Federal investigators subpoenaed church records as part of their probe into the financial dealings between Gigantiello and Carone. Although neither has been formally charged, the diocese stated it is fully cooperating with law enforcement.
Leadership Overhaul
In addition to Gigantiello’s removal, Bishop Brennan also dismissed a deacon who was temporarily overseeing the parish during the investigation. The deacon allegedly used racist and offensive language in private conversations that were secretly recorded at Gigantiello’s direction.
To restore stability, Bishop Witold Mroziewski has been appointed to oversee the parish and its operations. Bishop Brennan also conducted a spiritual rite to rededicate the church after the fallout from the music video shoot.
Carpenter’s Reaction
Sabrina Carpenter has not avoided addressing the controversy. During a September concert at Madison Square Garden, she jokingly referenced the situation. “Should we talk about how I got the mayor indicted?” she quipped, alluding to Mayor Adams’ legal troubles and the broader investigation.
Diocese Reaffirms Commitment to Accountability
Monsignor Gigantiello, who has defended his financial decisions as lawful and beneficial for the parish, has not responded to requests for comment.
Meanwhile, the Diocese of Brooklyn continues to investigate the church’s finances and leadership practices. In a statement, Bishop Brennan reaffirmed the diocese’s commitment to restoring trust, accountability, and transparency to ensure the parish’s future integrity and stability.