A New York priest has been relieved of his responsibilities following the completion of a divisive music video by pop star Sabrina Carpenter and after accusations about the mismanaging of church funds. The Roman Catholic Diocese of Brooklyn announced this following a vigorous investigation that found violative acts within the said church.
The Sabrina Carpenter Controversy
The row started with the release of Sabrina Carpenter’s music video Feather in October 2023. Shot inside the Our Lady of Mount Carmel Church, images in the clip featured a backdrop of a crucifix with obscenities and also the young singer dancing on the altar in a short black dress. Parishioners and church elders saw red.
The Diocese admitted that it did not follow proper filming protocols, stating its dismay at the abuse of this holy space. Monsignor Gigantiello admitted the decision to permit filming was a “lapse in judgment” but tried to explain his rationale behind the decision he made at that time.
Investigation Reveals Financial Irregularity
While the music video controversy was widely publicized, a larger probe found other, more serious issues with Monsignor Gigantiello’s management. Alvarez & Marsal and Sullivan & Cromwell LLP each undertook an investigation, which could uncover some of the following practices:
Unauthorized transfers of funds: About $2 million reportedly was transferred into accounts associated with a former member of New York City Mayor Eric Adams’ staff.
Theft of church funds for personal use: Gigantiello is accused of using a church credit card to make personal purchases.
The findings that surface compelled the Diocese to respond quickly. “The abuses uncovered reflect serious breaches of our policies and have harmed the trust of our parishioners,” said Bishop Robert Brennan.
The Fallout
Following these revelations, Monsignor Gigantiello lost the office that was bestowed upon him to perform duties of vicar for development of the Diocese. His administrative powers were suspended as early as November 2023, days after the people’s criticism against the music video.
The Diocese has since installed a successor to assist in the running of the church and restore check on their activities. Parishioners were made aware of the occurrence in a public press statement.
Ties to Wider Scandals
A deeper layer to the case is that Monsignor Gigantiello had ties with officials within Mayor Eric Adams’ administration. One of whom under investigation for corruption concerning Adams is a former employee suspected of being connected to the $2 million wire transfer.
The mayor himself has been at the center of serious legal woes, including bribery and soliciting illegal foreign donations. The cases already led to several resignations of high-ranking members of Adams’ inner circle.
The Commitment of Brooklyn Diocese to Accountability
The Diocese of Brooklyn restated its commitment to reform and ensure that similar egregious actions would not be repeated in the future. Bishop Brennan said in a statement, “Our promise towards transparency and accountability remains unshaken as we discuss these serious issues.”
The stripping of Monsignor Gigantiello of his functions by the church is viewed as an action toward rectifying the situation to protect the integrity of the Diocese.
Lessons Learned
This incident reveals the importance of protection and proper financial monitoring in sacred spaces of religious houses. To many, it serves as a reminder that the huge influence by the church leaders has a trickle-down effect on their respective communities.
Although Monsignor Gigantiello said little in defense against the accusations, his resignation was a new landmark for the Diocese of Brooklyn towards rebuilding after this scandal.
Following the scandals, parishioners and church officials are in agreement that there needs to be more vigilance to prevent such a collapse of trust again.
