A Calgary Priest who's facing accusations of sexual misconduct spent time working in High River, Vulcan and Claresholm.

Two minors and several adults have filed allegations of sexual misconduct against Father Malcolm D'Souza, while he worked at St. Mark's in Calgary between 2010 and 2016.

D'Souza worked as a Pastor or Associate Pastor at Christ the King in Claresholm from 2006 to 2010 and at High River's St. Francis de Sales and St. Andrews in Vulcan from 2016 until this year.

The Principal of High River's Notre Dame Collegiate High School, Paul Dunphy sent an e-mail to parents Monday, October 29, saying they have no indication any of the allegations had a connection to schools in the Christ the Redeemer School Division.

D'Souza is on administrative leave, while the Roman Catholic Diocese of Calgary investigates.

So far no charges have been laid by police.

Anyone with information is asked to call Calgary City Police at (403)266-1234, their local RCMP detachment.

The Chair of the Sexual Abuse and Misconduct Committee with the Calgary Diocese, Patricia Jones at 1-833-547-8360 or the Bishop's Delegate, Father Timothy Boyle at 1-(403)330-5923.

Here is Principal Dunphy's letter to parents:

Dear Families,

This letter is to inform you of difficult news the Diocese of Calgary recently shared with our community. Please see the attached information that was distributed at the affected parishes yesterday.

We have been made aware that Bishop McGrattan has removed Fr. Malcolm D’Souza from St. Bernard's and Assumption parishes in Calgary and placed him on administrative leave following these very serious allegations. Prior to this, he was an Associate Pastor as St. Francis de Sales in High River. Both the Church and the authorities are taking this matter extremely seriously. We have no indication that any of these allegations had connections to our schools.

As always, delivering quality education in a supportive, safe and caring, faith-based learning environment remains our top priority. We are guided in our actions and decisions by our commitment to student wellness and success.

If you have any questions or concerns, please refer to the attached statement from the Diocese of Calgary.

Sincerely,

Paul Dunphy

Principal

Notre Dame Collegiate

 

Send us your news tips, story ideas and comments at news@highriveronline.com