Warning: This story discusses suicide
After 50 years in the clergy, a Canterbury Catholic priest, Father Geoff Gray, tragically took his own life as his mental health deteriorated and financial pressures mounted. He was found by a concerned neighbour on the grounds of the Akaroa parish on November 29 last year.
Coroner Ian Telford’s findings, released today, revealed indications of financial abuse towards Father Geoff. Telford stated, “Towards the end of his life, Father Geoff’s mental health deteriorated markedly – a situation directly exacerbated by mounting financial pressures and other uncertainties. The evidence suggests that this largely arose due to the exploitation of his generous and trusting nature.”
Despite the concerns raised by those close to Father Geoff about potential financial abuse, his bank freezing his accounts, and his own struggles with managing anxiety and sleep problems, the priest continued to send substantial sums of money overseas, primarily to individuals in Bolivia.
Dr. Kris Sargent, Father Geoff’s GP, noted that the priest was under significant stress due to financial demands from individuals in Bolivia, causing him personal and financial strain. Despite efforts from family and Bishop Michael Gielen to help Father Geoff manage his financial stress, he ultimately decided to retire to Christchurch, where he tragically took his own life.
Father Geoff expressed feelings of loneliness while in Akaroa and eagerly anticipated his move to Christchurch.
During a clergy retreat on November 24, he seemed unsettled. Despite inquiries about his well-being from Bishop Gielen and other priests, Father Geoff declined to discuss his concerns. On November 27, he abruptly left the retreat, citing feeling overwhelmed and forgetting his medication. He also mentioned a banking issue that required his immediate attention.
Upon leaving the retreat, Father Geoff had a minor accident in the car park and encountered payment difficulties at a supermarket later that evening. His neighbor assisted him with an online bill payment, as he was locked out of his bank account due to suspected fraudulent activity.
The following day, Father Geoff visited his hairdresser, exhibiting signs of anxiety and requesting a shorter haircut than usual. He disclosed his struggles with mental health, but did not elaborate further. His hairdresser observed him shaking while making a payment.
Tragically, Father Geoff was discovered deceased, having taken his own life on November 28 or 29.
For support, individuals can contact various helplines such as Lifeline, Suicide Crisis Helpline, Age Concern, Elder Abuse Response Service, Depression Helpline, Samaritans, Youthline, Asian Family Services, Rural Support Trust Helpline, Healthline, and Aoake te Rā bereaved by suicide service. In case of emergency, dial 111.
If you are in need of assistance or know someone who may be at risk, do not hesitate to seek help from the resources provided.
