Peel Regional Police have charged a United Church minister with child luring.
Rev. Timothy Milley, a minister at Cataraqui United in Kingston, Ont., was arrested June 4.
The 65-year-old, who lives in Deseronto, Ont., faces five counts of child luring, including luring a child to commit sexual assault and luring a child to commit sexual interference.
Peel Regional Police’s internet child exploitation unit had been investigating a man since March 28 who used the name “redrider” online.
The man had been communicating with someone he thought was under 16 years old, for a sexual purpose, according to police.
Milley appeared in court on June 5 in Brampton, Ont., for a bail hearing.
The United Church of Canada said in a statement that Milley is suspended from his role as a minister, not only within his congregation but in any other capacity, until the charges make their way through the courts.
“Until the charges have been dealt with by the courts, we will not be commenting on this further other than to say we have confidence in our justice system,” said Rev. Jenny Stephens, Office of Vocation co-ordinator and team leader, in the statement.
“The United Church will seek to provide all those involved in this situation with pastoral care and spiritual support at this difficult time,” she added.
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Comments
Lynne Dimma says:
I am disgusted. I was denied recognition due to bipolar and my theology. An atheist is in the pulpit and now this animal has been in the pulpit. I have no words for such depravity.
Gary says:
IF, not guilty, regardless of getting his position back, this will be a black mark on him for the rest of his life. There may be leniency, but always doubt by someone.
IF, guilty, this is why Christians and the United Church will have a black mark on them, regardless if he is the "exception to the rule". He will be used as: "Here is an example of a United Church Minister". If so, why do people not consider the consequences to their actions? It always affects more than oneself.
T. Stewart Seney M.Div., D.R.S., Ph.D. says:
Since leaving the UCC in 1985, I have witnessed the unravelling of what could have been a positive influence (the denomination, that is) on Canada and the world. Highly motivated, faithful, and ethical people were placed on the dreaded Discontinued Services List while others were allowed to continue in their toxic behaviours. When will the proper lessons be learned?