‘U are the one and only for me’...

By Rachel Attard
Malta Independent
November 16, 2014

http://www.independent.com.mt/articles/2014-11-16/local-news/U-are-the-one-and-only-for-me-Fr-Charles-Fenech-tells-victim-of-alleged-sexual-abuse-6736125787

‘U are the one and only for me’ – Fr Charles Fenech tells victim of alleged sexual abuse

"I love you very much";  "u know that I do mistakes but I never do anything 2 hurt you and lose u"; "Even when u r down rem (remember) u r v imp 2 me".

These are just a sample of the many SMSs that one of the alleged five victims sexually abused by Fr Charles Fenech received from him during their 10-year rollercoaster relationship.

This newsroom has a copy of a list of SMSs that one of the victims obtained from her mobile telephony service provider. A copy of this list was also given to the police and the Curia Response Team. These types of messages, as evidenced by the lengthy list, were sent on regular basis during the periods in which the two were in a relationship.

The alleged victim told this newsroom that when Fr Fenech was abroad, he used to keep in touch with her regularly via text messages and emails. One message sent to the victim by Fr Fenech during one such period of separation reads: "Thank god I got a photo of you cause I am extremely sad".

Kerygma Movement director Father Charles Fenech - a prominent figure in the Maltese Church and one who has been active with youth movements - has been accused of sexual abuse and of holding one of the women he was involved with against her will.

He is due to appear in court on 17 December.

At least five victims alleging sexual abuse by Fr Fenech are expected to testify during the proceedings, which are being held behind closed doors. Fr Fenech is reportedly denying all the accusations.

So far, Fr Fenech has failed to make an appearance in court on the three occasions the case was due to be heard, citing illness. He was first charged on 22 May last year.