A parish pastor in western Finland has been charged with sexual offences against children, with three alleged victims identified in a case set to proceed in court.
Prosecutors have brought charges against the man, who is in his forties, including three counts of sexual abuse of a minor and three counts linked to breach of duty, according to Helsingin Sanomat.
The alleged offences took place during the spring and early summer of 2023. The case involves three complainants. Hearing dates have not yet been set.
The pastor served in a parish within the Turku archdiocese in the Satakunta region. Church authorities have suspended him from both his parish duties and priesthood following the charges.
The investigation began after the parish became aware of the allegations in autumn 2023. The parish then contacted police and filed a criminal complaint.
A statement from the archdiocese confirmed that the employee was removed from youth work immediately after the allegations emerged. The parish has since worked with police and the diocesan chapter during the investigation.
Legal proceedings will take place at the Satakunta District Court. The diocesan chapter is due to review the suspension on 29 April, in line with procedural requirements.
Church officials said the situation was serious and that steps were taken as soon as the allegations became known. “The person was transferred to other duties immediately when the matter came to light and the parish reported it to the police,” the parish priest said in a statement.
The same official said those affected had been informed while efforts were made to protect their privacy and provide support. “We want to protect them and offer them support,” the statement added.
The Turku archdiocese said the church has procedures in place to address misconduct and ensure safety within parish activities. Support services have been offered to those affected, in cooperation with diocesan contacts responsible for handling harassment cases.
The church also confirmed that guidelines exist for employees, volunteers and officials, with training in place to prevent abuse and respond to incidents.
HT
