Ghanaian Priest facing sex assault charge in Canada

HOLYROOD, N.L., Canada — Rev. Patrick Robert Offin, from the Cape Coast Diocese, serving here has been relieved of any public pastoral duties after being charged with sexually assaulting a young Newfoundland woman two months ago.

The incident allegedly took place Aug. 21 at the priest's resident in Holyrood, a small town near St. John's, where Offin was parish priest.

Offin, 55, came to Newfoundland earlier this year as part of the church's efforts to alleviate a shortage of priests in the province.

Before priests from other countries come to Newfoundland, they must undergo a police check and have certificates of good conduct from their bishop.

Roman Catholic Archbishop Martin Currie says the church is following protocol in dealing with the matter, alleged to have occurred in August.

Currie visited the Holy Cross parish shortly after the allegations came to light and spoke with the congregation.

The archbishop says the concern is always for the well-being of both the alleged victim and the parish.

He says the case is now before the courts and the church will await the outcome of the process.