A prominent Toronto pastor who is facing charges in connection with alleged sex crimes committed in Nova Scotia 40 years ago has addressed his congregation for the first time, telling them that he is innocent and will fight the allegations with everything that he has.
Rev. Brent Hawkes told attendees at the Metropolitan Community Church of Toronto on Sunday that the last week has been “very difficult” for him but that he still has “faith in the Canadian justice system” and believes he will be cleared of all wrongdoing.
“For 38 years I have fought with all I have had for equality for our community now I will fight these allegations with all I have. This time, however, my fight will be different. This time I will allow my lawyers to give me a voice,” he said. “I wish I could say more but everything I have to say will now be said in court.”
The RCMP charged Hawkes with indecent assault on a male and gross indecency on Monday in connection with crimes that allegedly took place between Aug. 1, 1974 and Dec. 31, 1975 when the pastor was a teacher in Kings County, Nova Scotia.
Addressing the congregation at his church on Sunday, Hawkes did not specifically discuss the allegations against him other than to say that they are untrue.
Hawkes then conclude his brief statement by thanking the community for their “love and support.”
“Our church has always been a place of love, compassion and support and I ask that we all continually pray for healing and that we continually pray for everyone involved. Thank you, I love you,” he said.
An Order of Canada recipient, Hawkes has been a prominent clergyman and gay rights activist for a number of years and counts many high-profile politicians among his friends.
Some of the notable Torontonians attending the Metropolitan Community Church of Toronto on Sunday included Member of Parliament and former police chief Bill Blair, Member of Provincial Parliament Peter Tabuns, former MP and mayoral candidate Olivia Chow and city councillor Paula Fletcher.
