A Brooklyn priest has been removed from his duties after allowing Sabrina Carpenter to film a controversial music video at his church, with subsequent investigations revealing additional financial misconduct.

Photo Credit: Basilica of the National Shrine of Our Lady of Mount Carmel / LMP 2001 / CC by 4.0

Monsignor Jamie Gigantiello of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Brooklyn has been stripped of both his administrative and pastoral duties following an investigation that uncovered:

Unauthorized filming of Carpenter's "Feather" music video at the church
Improper financial transfers totaling $1.9 million to accounts linked to Frank Carone
Misuse of church credit cards for personal purchases
Violation of diocesan policies and protocols

Bishop Robert Brennan has appointed Bishop Witold Mroziewski as the new administrator with complete authority over the parish. While Gigantiello may still conduct Mass with approval, he no longer holds any governance role.

The investigation began after Carpenter's Halloween 2023 music video release showed her dancing at the church altar in a short black dress and veil, which the diocese deemed "appalling." Though Gigantiello apologized for his "lapse in judgment," further probe revealed deeper issues.

Additional findings led to:

Removal of a temporary administrator deacon for using racist language
Federal subpoenas regarding financial dealings with Carone
Recovery of $1 million plus 9% interest from Carone's law firm

Gigantiello's removal marks a significant step by the diocese to restore public trust and protect church funds under proper management.

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