Source:  St Albans Diocesan Evangelical Fellowship

April 27, 2004

Reflecting the widespread concern over the appointment of Canon Jeffrey John to be Dean of St. Albans, a meeting of the Diocesan Evangelical Fellowship committee, together with a large number of clergy and laity from across the St Albans Diocese, expressed dismay at this appointment and the consequences that will flow from it.

We recognise that the ministry of the Dean is confined primarily to the Cathedral but in view of the role such a person takes in the Diocese as a whole and also the importance of the Cathedral as one of the larger churches in the Diocese we regret this appointment. 

We note that this particular appointment has been made despite the request of the Lambeth Commission that perceived controversial appointments should be avoided during their 12 months consultation period. We consequently regard this step as a serious error of judgement.  Furthermore, we are aggrieved that the Diocesan Bishop, who has also called on people not to take precipitate action, should have agreed to the appointment, thus creating division within the Diocese and the wider Anglican Communion.

Such disquiet and concern has been compounded by the statements made at the Press Conference, both by Canon Jeffrey John and the Bishop of St. Albans. We regard their views as reported as wholly erroneous and contrary to Scripture, tradition and reason, as well as the statements of the House of Bishops (?Issues in Human Sexuality?) and the Anglican Communion. We respectfully request that the appointment be withdrawn.

We recognise that individual clergy, congregations and lay members have taken, or will wish to take, further action.  We will continue to consult, work and pray together for the advancement of the gospel of Christ and the upholding of biblical standards in the Diocese.

For further information, please contact:

Revd Canon Nick Bell

Vicar of St Mary?s Parish Church, Luton

Tel: 01582 721867

Email: nickbell@stmarysluton.org

Canon Mr Philip Lovegrove, OBE

Chairman of the St Albans Diocesan Board of Finance

Tel: 0207 448 4754

Email: philip.lovegrove@fiskeplc.com

Statement from St Albans diocese

"The Bishop of St Albans, the Rt Revd Christopher Herbert will be pleased to meet with diocesan clergy and official representatives of parishes who are concerned about the appointment of Canon Jeffrey John, following his return from the diocesan pilgrimage."

"The Bishop is currently leading a long-planned diocesan pilgrimage to Santiago de Compostela, Spain, returning on Friday May 7th. He is being accompanied by the Bishop of Hertford, the Rt Revd Christopher Foster. Seventy-eight people from across the diocese are taking part."

Date Created: 4/28/2004