Priest replaced after Sabrina Carpenter shoots music video in his church

A New York priest has been removed from his position after allowing pop star Sabrina Carpenter to film a music video in his church. The church, known as Our Lady of Mount Carmel, became the center of controversy when Carpenter's music video for her song 'Feather' was released in October 2023. The video included scenes that many found inappropriate for a place of worship, leading to an investigation by the Roman Catholic Diocese of Brooklyn. Monsignor Jamie Gigantiello, the priest in question, was stripped of all his pastoral duties and governance roles following the investigation. The church officials stated that they discovered not only issues related to the music video but also other instances of mismanagement that raised concerns. Bishop Robert Brennan expressed his sadness over the findings, which were uncovered by the investigative firms Alvarez & Marsal and Sullivan & Cromwell LLP. The investigation revealed serious violations of Diocesan policies and protocols, prompting the church to take action against Monsignor Gigantiello. He was removed from his responsibilities, and a replacement was appointed to take over his duties. This decision came after the backlash from the music video, which featured shocking imagery, including a crucifix with profanity and Carpenter dancing on the altar in a revealing outfit. The Diocese had previously stated that they were 'appalled' by the content of the video and that proper procedures for filming had not been followed. In a letter to church members, Monsignor Gigantiello admitted that allowing the filming to take place was a 'lapse in judgment. ' However, he has not publicly addressed the other allegations that led to his dismissal. On Monday, Bishop Brennan announced that the investigation had uncovered further instances of administrative misconduct. It was revealed that Monsignor Gigantiello had used a church credit card for personal expenses, which is against the rules. Additionally, from 2019 to 2021, he transferred nearly $2 million in church funds to bank accounts linked to a former staff member of New York City Mayor Eric Adams. This situation has raised serious questions about financial management and accountability within the church. The investigations surrounding Mayor Adams and his associates have also led to a series of legal troubles, including subpoenas and resignations of key officials. This entire situation highlights the importance of ethical leadership and the need for transparency in both religious and governmental institutions.