The former vicar of Emmanuel Church Wimbledon is facing a string of historical sex offence charges.
Metropolitan Police said Jonathan Fletcher, 81, appeared at Wimbledon Magistrates’ Court on Wednesday.
He has been charged with eight counts of indecent assault and one of grievous bodily harm, for offences dating between 1973 and 1999.
He was bailed to appear at Kingston Crown Court on August 7.
The Met said: “We encourage anyone who has been a victim of abuse to come forward and speak to us.
“We have specialist officers who will listen and support you through the investigative process. Advice and details of charities that can offer support to victims of sexual offences can be found on the MPS website.”
Emmanuel Church Wimbledon said in a statement: “We learned very recently that Jonathan Fletcher is being prosecuted for a number of historical offences against an adult.
“Jonathan Fletcher was formerly minister at Emmanuel. He retired in 2012 and currently has no authority to minister in the Church of England.”
The church website states: “Emmanuel Wimbledon is committed to high standards in the safeguarding and care of children, young people and vulnerable adults.”
The Diocese of Southwark added: “The Diocesan Safeguarding team continues to offer support to those affected by this matter and has liaised with the police in the course of their investigations.”
