Kingston pastor removed from active ministry as investigation continues
Parishioners at St. John the Apostle Catholic Church in Kingston have been told about a serious financial issue involving church accounts.
The Kingston Whig-Standard reports the Archdiocese of Kingston says the matter involves the use of parish money by pastor Friar David Collins. Church officials say Collins met with archdiocesan financial representatives to discuss several significant transactions connected to the parish accounts.
Following that review, the archdiocese determined the spending had not been authorized and did not follow established parish financial policies.
Collins has since been removed from active ministry while the matter is investigated.
The amount of money believed to have been improperly used or removed from the accounts is reported to be more than $600,000. Church officials are continuing to examine financial records to determine the full scope of the issue.
The Whig writes Police have also been contacted, and a criminal investigation is underway. No criminal charges have been announced.
The archdiocese says it is reviewing the financial practices at St. John the Apostle and taking steps to strengthen oversight of parish accounts. Officials are also looking at whether any of the missing money can be recovered.
Parishioners were informed of the situation as church leaders work to address concerns about accountability and the handling of donated funds.
Regular parish operations and scheduled services are expected to continue. Temporary pastoral leadership is being arranged while Collins remains away from active ministry.
The investigation is expected to examine the transactions, how they were approved and whether existing safeguards were followed.
The allegations have not been tested in court. The investigation remains ongoing, and further information is expected as police and church officials complete their reviews in the case.
