Former St Bede's College Friar Rowan Donoghue arrives at the Christchurch District Court for an appearance on January 28, 2026. Photo: Nathan McKinnon / RNZ
The rector of St Bede's college says a former staffer's sexual offending against boys more than two decades ago "makes me feel sick".
It comes after RNZ reported that the Society of Mary was made aware of allegations against the priest nearly 20 years ago.
RNZ revealed on Wednesday that Fr 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
St Bede's College rector Jon McDowall told RNZ the details outlined through the court process were "deeply disturbing".
"As Rector, it makes me feel sick to think that young people entrusted to an adult's care were abused in this way. I am deeply sorry that this happened to them, and my thoughts are with the victims and survivors who continue to live with the impact of that harm."
McDowall said the school had worked openly with police throughout the process.
"We will continue to cooperate fully with the authorities should any further information come to light.
"Abuse has no place at St Bede's - past, present, or future. The College has an established policy in place to respond and support victims of historical abuse, alongside safeguarding policies and practices to protect the wellbeing and safety of students today. Our focus remains on providing a safe and supportive environment for all members of our community."
McDowall extended an open invitation for victims in the case, and others who may have been impacted, or anyone with concerns to contact him directly.
McDowall earlier told RNZ 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 on Wednesday, the Society of Mary confirmed an anonymous complaint of a sexual nature was made against 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 about the allegations of sexual abuse by Donoghue in relation to his time at St Bede's College.
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 Donoghue's name suppression had lifted.
St Patrick's College Wellington rector Mike Savali confirmed to RNZ that Donoghue was on the college staff from 2003 to 2007.
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've ever experienced sexual assault or abuse and need to talk to someone call the confidential crisis helpline Safe to Talk on 0800 044 334 or text 4334. (available 24/7)
- Male Survivors Aotearoa offers a range of confidential support at centres across New Zealand - find your closest one here.
- Men and Trauma New Zealand: 0800 636 263
- Alternatively contact your local police station - click here for a list.
If you have been abused, remember it's not your fault.
Sign up for Ngā Pitopito Kōrero, a daily newsletter curated by our editors and delivered straight to your inbox every weekday.
