Priest with criminal past performed pastoral services at Ottawa church
Posted May 7, 2011 05:46:39 AM.
This article is more than 5 years old.
Members of Our Lady of Mount Carmel Church are recovering from the news that a priest who performed pastoral services at the parish had served prison time for sex crimes against underage girls.
The news of the crimes was even news to the parish priest.
Father John “Jack” McCann’s criminal past includes a 1992 conviction for sexually assaulting teenage girls in B.C.
The news of the crimes came about due to a former victim alerting an advocacy group, the Survivors Network of Those Abused by Priests (SNAP).
The Archdiocese of Ottawa said that McCann is now retired and residing at the Missionary Oblates of Mary Immaculate Residence at St. Paul University.
McCann had been performing mass and other duties in the absence of parish priest Rev. Stephen Laing.
McCann’s responsibilities have ceased since April 29. McCann had also performed duties at the Old St. Brigid’s Church until it was closed in 2007.
Rob Meillieur is the Oblates administrative officer and says that the minister has paid his penance for his crimes and should be left to enjoy the remainder of his retirement.
An information session will be held at the Lady of Mount Carmel Church today to help parishioners deal with the stress of the news.
