Kerala Priest Arrested in Canada Over Sexual Assault Charges
A Catholic priest from Kerala has been arrested in Canada on charges of sexual assault and sexual interference. Peel Regional Police charged him on December 18, 2025 after an investigation into alleged misconduct. Sexual interference under Canadian law refers to crimes involving children under 16 years. The charges have shocked both the local community in Canada and church followers in Kerala.
The priest has been identified as Father James Cherickal, a member of the Syro‑Malabar Church. He is in his 60s and originally hails from Kerala’s diocese of Thamarassery. Cherickal served in Canada for nearly three decades, working in several parishes under the Archdiocese of Toronto, most recently as pastor at St. Jerome’s Catholic Church in Brampton.
Removed From Ministry and Mass Cancellations
Following the arrest, the Archdiocese of Toronto removed Father Cherickal from pastoral duties. Church officials stated they treat all accusations seriously and follow established protocols. They also emphasized that Cherickal is presumed innocent until proven guilty and is entitled to due process in Canada’s legal system.
The arrest prompted St. Jerome’s Catholic Church to cancel Holy Mass from December 25 to January 3, disrupting services during a key holiday period. Parishioners expressed shock and concern over the allegations and the sudden change.
Long Service and Broader Church Context
Father Cherickal began serving under the Archdiocese of Toronto in 1997, moving to St. Jerome’s Church last year. He also worked with the Syro‑Malabar mission for Catholic migrants from Kerala living in Canada. Many priests from Kerala serve in foreign parishes to support growing communities abroad.
The Syro‑Malabar Church is the most prominent Catholic segment in Kerala and one of the 23 Oriental Catholic Churches under the Roman Catholic Church. Cherickal’s long tenure in Canada made him a familiar figure to many members of the local community.
Legal Proceedings Ahead
Police have not released further details to protect the ongoing investigation. Father Cherickal now faces the Canadian legal process, where the case will proceed through the courts. Cases involving clergy and serious allegations often draw wider attention and scrutiny, both within church institutions and the public.
