Please be aware of new fraud and money scams that are being sent via email, phone, and text messaging. Unfortunately, well-meaning parishioners are often the target. Please act with caution and be prudent when it comes to responding to requests for money, even from someone claiming to be a priest, or from individuals within the Church community. Our Diocesan policy prohibits priests from soliciting money for personal needs.
Priests and church employees will not request payments of gift cards, bitcoin, wire transfers, or e-transfers. All donations for legitimate parish and Diocesan activities are through traditional, verifiable methods, and are for donations to the charitable organization, not individuals.
Before you give money to anyone or any organization; stop and talk to a trusted friend or relative to determine the authenticity, appropriateness, and validity of the request, or call the Diocesan Finance Office at (250) 479-1331.
If you feel that you have been the victim of a financial scam, you are encouraged to make a report to the police.
Please see the BC government website for a list of common scams and some resources:
