A Kerala-born Catholic priest, Fr James Cherickal, serving in Canada, has been arrested on charges of sexual assault and sexual interference involving a minor. The priest, attached to the Archdiocese of Toronto, has been serving as the pastor of St Jerome’s Catholic Church in Brampton since 2024. According to a statement issued by the Archdiocese of Toronto, Peel Regional Police laid charges against Fr Cherickal on December 18, 2025.
The charges include one count of sexual assault and one count of sexual interference, the latter referring under Canadian law to sexual touching of any part of a person’s body under the age of 16 for sexual purposes.
Long-Standing Service In Canada
Fr Cherickal, in his 60s, has been associated with various parishes under the Archdiocese of Toronto since 1997. Church sources in Kochi noted that he originally belongs to the Syro-Malabar diocese of Thamarassery and had been deputed to serve in Canadian parishes for nearly three decades. He has been serving St Jerome’s in Brampton since 2024, after working in several parishes across the Greater Toronto Area.
In response to the allegations, the Archdiocese stated that Fr Cherickal has been removed from pastoral ministry in accordance with its protocols for handling allegations of misconduct. The statement emphasised that, as per Canadian law, the priest is presumed innocent until proven guilty and is entitled to due process. “We look upon any accusation of misconduct as an urgent matter requiring serious attention,” the Archdiocese added.
Impact On Parish Activities
Following his arrest and removal, St Jerome’s Church cancelled all Holy Mass services between December 25 and January 3. Peel Regional Police are continuing their investigation, and authorities have not released further details regarding the alleged incidents.
The Archdiocese reiterated its commitment to transparency and adherence to legal and ethical protocols in handling allegations of sexual misconduct by clergy. The case has drawn attention both in Canada and Kerala, highlighting ongoing concerns over safeguarding minors within religious institutions.