Please note that a fraudulent scam has circulated globally over the course of several months regarding a letter of “endorsement” from Bishop Gordon which “confirms and encourages collaboration” with the Congregational Leader (Sr. Mary Beth McCurdy) of the Sisters of Charity of the Immaculate Conception (SCIS), located in Saint John, NB. Several fake versions of the correspondence have appeared alleging that the SCIS wish to donate funds and thereby require banking information. Apparently the emails (and letters) have also been translated into other languages and there have been follow-up telephone calls, resulting in valuable banking information being shared and serious financial loss to vulnerable Catholic organizations/congregations in dire need.
This scam serves as a sad reminder that churches and charities are often the victims of fraud. All donations for legitimate parish and diocesan activities are made through traditional verifiable methods and to the charitable organization, not individuals. Please do not share personal banking information with anyone or any organization without verifying the authenticity, appropriateness and validity of the request, or call the Diocesan Finance Office 250-479-1331. If you have been the victim of a financial scam, you are encouraged to make a report to the police.
