Brooklyn Bishop Robert Brennan took decisive action against a parish that allowed the filming of a controversial music video within a century-old Brooklyn church. The video, titled “Feather,” features popular singer Sabrina Carpenter in a provocative black dress, accompanied by scenes of violence and questionable content.
The Controversial Music Video
Sabrina Carpenter’s music video “Feather” caused a stir due to its explicit content and filming location. The video depicts Carpenter wearing a scantily-clad black dress while several men engage in violent altercations over her. Additionally, the video shows scenes of Carpenter attending the funerals of these men at the Annunciation of the Blessed Virgin Mary Church, with candy-colored coffins bearing provocative inscriptions, including one that reads “RIP B*tch.”
Bishop Brennan’s Condemnation
Brooklyn Bishop Robert Brennan expressed his strong disapproval of the “Feather” music video. In a statement released on Thursday, he condemned the video and criticized the local parish for allowing its filming without adhering to diocesan policies. Bishop Brennan was particularly appalled by the video’s scenes and script, which he deemed inappropriate for a church sanctuary.
Violation of Diocesan Policies
The parish initially claimed that the production company failed to accurately represent the video’s content, suggesting that they were unaware of its explicit nature. However, a subsequent investigation revealed that the parish had been provided with documents that clearly portrayed inappropriate behavior unsuitable for a church sanctuary, although they failed to depict the entirety of the scenes.
Consequences and Repercussions
As a result of the controversy, Bishop Brennan took decisive action. The parish’s vicar, Monsignor Jamie Gigantiello, was relieved of his position and temporarily replaced by Auxiliary Bishop Witold Mroziewski, who assumed all administrative responsibilities. John Notaro, executive director of the Catholic Foundation of Brooklyn and Queens, and Futures in Education, also assumed administrative responsibilities for those respective organizations. It is important to note that although Gigantiello was removed from his administrative role, he will remain in the church as a pastor.
Mass of Reparation
In response to the controversy surrounding the music video, Bishop Brennan and Monsignor Joseph Grimaldi conducted a Mass of Reparation. During this Mass, the bishop blessed the altar with holy water, symbolically restoring the sanctity of the church and seeking to repair the harm caused by the video’s filming.
Historical Significance of the Parish
The Annunciation of the Blessed Virgin Mary parish holds significant historical importance. Established in 1863, it primarily became a home for Lithuanian Americans. This particular parish is unique in that it offers a weekly Sunday Mass entirely in Lithuanian, making it a cherished place of worship for the Lithuanian community.
Impact and Public Reception
Since its release on Tuesday, the “Feather” music video has garnered significant attention, amassing over 3 million views. The public’s response to the controversy has been mixed, with some supporting the bishop’s actions while others argue for artistic freedom and expression.
