A priest in Brooklyn has been removed from his duties after he allowed pop star Sabrina Carpenter to film a controversial music video at his church. Monsignor Jamie Gigantiello, who led Our Lady of Mount Carmel – Annunciation Parish, faced repercussions from the Catholic Diocese of Brooklyn following an investigation that uncovered financial misconduct and administrative violations. The scandal has drawn attention to the growing clash between Christian institutions and the secular world, as the entertainment industry continues to push narratives that undermine traditional values.
Priest replaced after Sabrina Carpenter shoots music video in his church https://t.co/AJBdjf2Icm
— BBC News (World) (@BBCWorld) November 20, 2024
Carpenter’s music video for her song “Feather” featured her performing provocatively in front of the church’s altar, a stark departure from the reverence typically associated with such a sacred space. The diocese expressed its disapproval, noting that proper protocols were not followed when permission for the shoot was granted. Gigantiello admitted to a “lapse in judgment,” but this incident was just the beginning of a deeper investigation into his conduct.
The probe revealed that Gigantiello had made unauthorized financial transfers of $1.9 million in parish funds to accounts linked to Frank Carone, a former chief of staff for Mayor Eric Adams. These transactions violated diocesan policies and raised serious questions about Gigantiello’s stewardship of church resources. The scandal highlighted the vulnerability of religious institutions to exploitation, not just by outside forces but also from within.
NYC priest who allowed Sabrina Carpenter to shoot a music video in church further stripped of duties https://t.co/bDfSyNUFDH
— The Associated Press (@AP) November 19, 2024
Priest Jamie Gigantiello who let Sabrina Carpenter shoot provocative music video in church is stripped of dutieshttps://t.co/jt8DJly2Qw pic.twitter.com/Ct0Qj7kdpa
— The Washington Times (@WashTimes) November 20, 2024
This controversy underscores a larger issue — the increasing secularization of public life and the cultural forces that continue to diminish the role of religion in society. Carpenter’s provocative music video, filmed in a sacred location, is emblematic of the way in which modern culture is eroding Christian values, treating sacred spaces as mere backdrops for entertainment. This reflects a broader effort to sideline religious principles in favor of more secular, liberal ideals.
In response to the investigation, Bishop Robert Brennan took immediate action, removing Gigantiello from his administrative and pastoral roles and appointing a new administrator. The diocese also conducted a spiritual rite to restore the church’s sanctity. While the removal of Gigantiello was necessary, it also reveals the ongoing tension between Christian institutions and a culture that increasingly seeks to marginalize them.
As the investigation continues, this incident serves as a powerful reminder of the need for vigilance in protecting American values, especially in the face of a culture that constantly challenges and undermines religious institutions.
