Monsignor Jamie Gigantiello, the former NYC priest pastor of Our Lady of Mount Carmel Church in Brooklyn, has been removed from his leadership roles following a series of investigations revealing serious misconduct. The scandal first erupted after pop star Sabrina Carpenter filmed provocative scenes for her music video Feather at the church, which sparked public outrage.
Financial Scandals of NYC Priest and Unauthorized Transfers
The controversy deepened as church officials discovered unauthorized financial transactions made by Gigantiello. Between 2019 and 2021, he transferred $1.9 million in church funds to bank accounts linked to Frank Carone, a former top aide to New York City Mayor Eric Adams. These transfers, which bypassed church protocols and lacked proper documentation, led to further scrutiny. The diocese also uncovered substantial personal expenses charged to church credit cards.
In addition to removing Gigantiello from his administrative and pastoral duties, Bishop Robert Brennan appointed Bishop Witold Mroziewski to oversee the parish. The priest’s involvement in the Feather video and these financial violations has prompted ongoing investigations, with federal authorities now involved. Gigantiello’s actions have raised concerns about the mismanagement of church resources and a breach of public trust, prompting the diocese to restore the sanctity of the church through spiritual rites.
