Ahead of walk out planned by St. Michael’s students, Fall River Bishop states priest admitted to serious misconduct, peaceful demonstration for Friday still on

FALL RIVER — In a letter from Bishop Edgar M. da Cunha, S.D.V., shared with parishioners of St. Michael and St. Joseph Parishes in Fall River it has been revealed that a Fall River priest has admitted to misconduct.

Reverend Jay Mello was placed on administrative leave in June by the bishop after the Diocese of Fall River received concerning information alleging sexual misconduct by the priest involving an adult.

An initial investigation by the Diocese found that there was sufficient evidence to warrant further investigation to determine whether Father Mello had violated the standards of ministerial behavior and the Code of Conduct for Priests.  Based on the allegations and the initial findings, Father Mello was placed on administrative leave as the investigation continues. Consistent with Diocesan standards, he is no longer residing at the parish rectory and has been directed to refrain from exercising public priestly ministry. 

On Thursday ahead of a planned walk out over the matter by St. Michael’s students on Friday, Bishop da Cunha issued the following letter:

“Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ:

I am writing to provide you with an update about the status of Fr. Jay Mello. As you know,
Fr. Mello has been on administrative leave from active priestly ministry since June due to
information received by the Diocese about alleged sexual misconduct that did not involve a minor.

Fr. Mello initially denied any wrongdoing.

While I would not normally provide this detailed of an update until the conclusion of the
investigation, I am prompted to do so because there have been a number of false claims and rumors causing confusion based on the belief that Fr. Mello has been unfairly placed on leave. This confusion is now disrupting the school environment.

I feel it is necessary to inform your parish and school communities of an important
development in the investigation in that Fr. Mello recently admitted to serious sexual misconduct which began while counseling an adult parishioner.

Priests have a very influential role in guiding the spiritual, moral, and sometimes personal
lives of parishioners. This role establishes a profound trust between clergy and parishioners. In this context, when priests betray that trust, as in this case, the harm comes not only to the immediate victims, but extends to the relationship and bonds of trust between clergy and all parishioners.

The Diocese will continue to reinforce the Church’s commitment to justice, accountability,
and the faithful care of the community. This means that difficult decisions must be made at times, and action taken to affirm that the trust placed in our spiritual leaders is earned, valued, and protected.

Our investigation into the full extent of the misconduct will continue and I expect that this
matter will be concluded early next year. To those who wish to support Fr. Mello, I encourage you to continue praying for him. I ask that you also pray for all victims of clergy abuse and misconduct who often feel revictimized when their claims are not believed.”

Sincerely yours in Christ
Most Reverend Edgar M. da Cunha, S.D.V.
Bishop of Fall River

Following today’s release of the letter from Bishop da Cunha, families remain committed to
holding the peaceful demonstration scheduled for Friday at the Diocese office and issued their own statement.

“In his statement, Bishop da Cunha confirmed that Father Jay Mello, who had been on
administrative leave, admitted to serious misconduct involving an adult parishioner. For months, SMS families have sought clarity and transparency regarding Father Jay’s sudden absence, which has caused significant distress within the school and parish communities. Bishop da Cunha’s response comes on the eve of the demonstration, addressing some concerns but leaving the community still grappling with many unanswered questions.

The SMS community is gathering not in protest but in peaceful expression, unified in their care for their children and dedication to restoring trust. Many parents and parishioners feel that the delay in communication has had a profound impact, particularly on the children who formed close bonds with Father Jay.

As one parent expressed, “Our children deserve a community rooted in openness and support.
This demonstration is our way of coming together respectfully, showing our care and concern for one another during this uncertain time.”

Many in the community feel that, while the gravity of the situation is acknowledged, their deep bonds with Father Jay foster understanding and a path toward forgiveness. “Father Jay has been an integral part of our lives and our children’s spiritual growth. Forgiveness is at the heart of our Catholic faith, and we want him back at St. Michael’s and St. Joseph’s, where his impact has been so positive,” shared one SMS parent.

SMS families are steadfast in their call for continued transparency and open communication
from the Diocese, especially on matters that affect the well-being of students and the broader
community. Equally, they express their heartfelt desire for Father Jay’s return, urging the
Diocese to consider his years of dedicated service and the community’s love for him. This
peaceful demonstration will allow SMS students to show their support and solidarity, reflecting their deep commitment to the values of forgiveness and love for their school, parish, and community.”