Source: Radio New Zealand
Former St Bede’s College Friar Rowan Donoghue arrives at the Christchurch District Court for an appearance on January 28, 2026. Nathan McKinnon / RNZ
The Society of Mary was made aware of allegations against a priest now convicted of sexual abusing several boys nearly 20 years ago, RNZ can reveal.
The religious group says they tried to investigate the complaint, but didn’t have enough information to verify the anonymous complaint. The priest was then put on a “safety plan”.
The anonymous correspondent was encouraged to contact the police.
RNZ revealed on Wednesday that Friar Rowan Donoghue had pleaded guilty to six charges, five of which are representative, including indecent assault on a boy aged 12-16, indecent assault on a boy 16 and over and sexual violation by unlawful sexual connection.
The offending related to four boys who were boarding at St Bede’s College between 1996 and 2000.
- Do you know more? Email sam.sherwood@rnz.co.nz
In response to questions from RNZ on Wednesday, the Society of Mary confirmed an anonymous complaint of a sexual nature was made against Fr Donoghue in 2007.
“The Society of Mary sought to investigate the complaint, but was unable to gain sufficient information to verify the allegations. Even so, the Society of Mary determined that Donoghue should be removed from public ministry, with a safety plan enacted. That has stayed in place since that time.”
The Society was not aware of the allegations to which Donoghue entered guilty pleas until Police laid charges, the spokesperson said.
“Our first thoughts are with those who came forward and described what happened to them. We extend our apologies to them, and will seek to do so personally at an appropriate time. We deeply regret the hurt or harm caused.”
The society was “committed to ongoing efforts to ensure the safety of all people in Church settings”.
Asked whether police were told, the spokesperson said the complainant was “encouraged to contact the police”.
In early 2023, police were contacted with allegations of sexual abuse by Fr Donoghue that he has since pleaded guilty to in relation to his time at St Bede’s College.
RNZ asked St Bede’s College rector Jon McDowall for comment this week on when the school was first notified of any allegations regarding Fr Donoghue.
He said the school was “formally notified” of the allegations by police and had “worked openly with them since that time”.
“We hold victims and survivors in our thoughts and remain focused on providing a safe and supportive environment for all members of our community – past, present and future.”
In response to questions from RNZ, St Patrick’s Silverstream rector Rob Ferreira said the school had not been made aware of any allegations of abuse in care while Fr Donoghue worked at the school between 1982 to 1992.
“We have not had any inquiries from the police either.
“We operate according to clearly set out guidelines and best practice and you should note that our primary concern is the wellbeing of our students. Given that – our protection of the privacy and any other rights of survivors of abuse and other individuals would be paramount.”
He said the school had informed the community that Fr Donoghue’s suppression had lifted.
The Society of Mary encouraged anyone who has a concern or complaint about one of our members to contact the Police, the National Office for Professional Standards 0800 114 622, or the Society’s confidential helpline 021 909 749.
Where to get help
If it’s an emergency and you feel that you or someone else is at risk, call 111.
If you have been abused, remember it’s not your fault.
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– Published by EveningReport.nz and AsiaPacificReport.nz, see: MIL OSI in partnership with Radio New Zealand
