Investigation Underway for Over $600K Missing from Ontario Church

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Authorities are looking into “serious financial discrepancies” totaling over $600,000 that was withdrawn from the accounts of St. John The Apostle Catholic Church in Kingston, Ont.

A representative from the Kingston Police Service confirmed to via email that a detective from the Criminal Investigation Division has been assigned to the case and that the Archdiocese is working with them during the investigation.

An internal announcement dated June 13 from Kingston Archbishop Michael Mulhall revealed that a “financial issue” had surfaced concerning a pastor’s management of church accounts.

Friar David Collins, who stepped down on July 1, had served at St. John The Apostle for nearly ten years.

The Archdiocese began its review of financial issues after receiving a call from the Chancery Office in March regarding an overdraft on the parish’s general account, according to a letter sent to parishioners on July 11.

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The police were first notified in April, as shared by a spokesperson for the Kingston Archdiocese to in a statement, when it became clear how extensive the financial irregularities were.

“A detailed review of all transactions back to 2019 took several weeks to complete. All records have been compiled and made available for [the police] investigation,” said the spokesperson.

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In the letter sent to parishioners, Mulhall mentioned that more than $630,000 had been withdrawn from parish accounts through 1,196 irregular cheques issued.

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“At this time, it is unclear where all of the funds were distributed,” he stated.

Mulhall noted that Father Tim Shea, who serves at a nearby parish, will provide sacramental care for St. John The Apostle until a new pastor is appointed in fall.

“Friar David is currently under care of his community in Toronto,” Mulhall added. “Amongst all of the emotions this situation brings forth, please remember to pray for Friar David and each other.”

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The attempted to reach Collins but was unsuccessful.

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