Roman Catholic Diocese of Brooklyn has relieved Monsignor Jamie Gigantiello of his pastoral oversight at a prominent New York City church, following a damning investigation that exposed a web of mismanagement, unauthorized financial dealings, and a high-profile music video controversy involving pop sensation Sabrina Carpenter.
Last November, Sabrina Carpenter’s music video for “Feather” sparked outrage among the faithful when it debuted, featuring the singer dancing in front of the altar at Our Lady of Mount Carmel — Annunciation Parish in a short black dress and veil, after arriving in a pink hearse. The Diocese of Brooklyn expressed its “appall” at the time, citing a blatant disregard for proper filming procedures. Gigantiello, who had approved the shoot, later described the decision as “a lapse in judgement,” claiming he was absent during filming and unaware of the video’s provocative nature.
The music video debacle prompted a thorough investigation by firms Alvarez & Marsal and Sullivan & Cromwell LLP. The probe unearthed alarming evidence of Gigantiello’s mismanagement, including:
– Gigantiello made substantial, unapproved transactions totaling $1.9 million between 2019 and 2021 to accounts linked to Frank Carone, former chief of staff to NYC Mayor Eric Adams, who is currently embroiled in a corruption investigation. Carone’s law firm has since repaid $1 million with approximately 9% interest.
– Gigantiello used a church credit card for “substantial” personal purchases, violating diocesan protocols.
– The monsignor failed to seek approval for these transactions and neglected to properly document them, contravening the diocese’s investment policies.
Consequences and Repercussions
Gigantiello Stripped of Pastoral Duties: Bishop Robert Brennan has relieved Gigantiello of his “pastoral oversight or governance role,” effective immediately. However, with approval from newly appointed administrator Bishop Witold Mroziewski, Gigantiello may still perform Mass.
New Leadership: Bishop Mroziewski assumes “complete authority” over the parish, including liturgical matters.
Deacon Relieved of Duties: A temporary administrator, appointed during the investigation, was also removed after secretly recorded conversations in the parish office revealed the use of racist and offensive language.
Federal Investigation: The church has been subpoenaed by federal investigators seeking more information about Carone and Gigantiello’s financial dealings.
