On 12th February a bishop, clergy and some laity emailed the General Council of the FCE to raise concerns about governance in the Free Church of England. Our rector was one of those who signed that letter.
Some of the matters arising have subsequently been reported on by the Telegraph:
Telegraph: Questions of Missing £300,000
Telegraph: Bishop Accused of Blackmail and Racism
These articles make clear that serious matters are being considered by the Charity Commission and Police. To this date no satisfactory explanations have been given by Bishop John Fenwick or Bishop Paul Hunt. Whistleblowers who have raised alerts have been subjected to abuses of process and unjust treatment.
In light of this our Church Council met on 27th April. The proposal that our rector resign his license in the FCE and our church leave the denomination was unanimously agreed.
We will be seeking suitable ecclesial oversight and support for our church family and mission. This will of course take time to arrange but we are thankful to those who have already reached out to explore how they can support us in this period of transition. Meanwhile our day to day ministry continues unchanged, and we are thankful to God for his many blessings.
Church Council & Trustees of Emmanuel Anglican Church
2nd May 2021
