CANADA
CBC News
A former colleague of a priest charged with sexual assault and sexual interference says he believes Father Ronald Léger is innocent.
“I feel really sorry for him and also for all the parishioners because Father Ron was an excellent priest,” said Jean-Jacques Serceau, who is the director of Holy Family Parish on Archibald Street. “I don’t think he can commit something like that.”
Serceau said he has known Léger for almost a decade and considers him a close friend.
He added the Archbishop of the Archdiocese of Saint Boniface, Albert LeGatt, will speak and offer help at mass next Sunday.
“At least now it’s out and at least we have to deal with that,” said Serceau.
Some Winnipeg Catholics say they will be watching this story closely.
“Priests are often in a position of authority,” said Ken Jones, who does not go to Holy Family Parish. “It’s like anything that’s hidden. Until you talk about it, until you bring it out to the light of day, it stays hidden. That’s unfortunate for the church and especially for the victims.”
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