Statement from the Archdiocese of Toronto re: Fr. Neil Pereira

On Wednesday, July 26, 2023, the Archdiocese of Toronto learned that Fr. Neil Pereira, a priest of the Archdiocese of Toronto currently on loan to the Diocese of Peterborough, was charged with sexual interference and sexual assault of a minor.

The Roman Catholic Diocese of Peterborough received an allegation in June of sexual and professional misconduct involving Fr. Pereira. The allegation was immediately reported to the Children’s Aid Society and the Peterborough Police Services. 

Fr. Pereira was removed from pastoral ministry upon receipt of the allegation. The Diocese of Peterborough has kept the Archdiocese of Toronto informed throughout the process. Fr. Pereira is entitled to due process, as is any accused individual.

Fr. Pereira was ordained to the priesthood in June 2020. He served as Associate Pastor at St. Isaac Jogues Parish in Pickering (2020 – 2022) before moving to the Diocese of Peterborough in late June 2022 to serve in campus ministry.

The Archdiocese of Toronto looks upon any allegation of misconduct as an urgent matter that requires serious attention. Our full “Procedure for Cases of Alleged Misconduct” policy can be accessed by visiting: www.archtoronto.org/safeenvironment.

We pray for all those who are affected by this painful situation.