Write a commentThe Church of Ireland churches of St Patrick’s and St Mary’s have found themselves without a rector following the resignation of the Rector, Revd Kingsley Sutton.
Rev Sutton yesterday issued a statement of apology and offer of resignation, following his removal of the Royal British Legion Standards from St Patrick’s and St Mary’s churches earlier this month and today the Bishop of Down and Dromore, The Rt Revd Harold Miller accepted his resignation!
In his Statement the Rev Sutton said “In the light of the unfolding events here in Newry since I unwisely and forcefully removed the Royal British Legion Standards from St Patrick’s and St Mary’s churches, I wish to make a full and unreserved apology.
“In my haste to provide worship areas in Newry that are more accessible to all people and free from what I perceived as the vestiges of the past, I completely underestimated the depth of meaning and present day value of the Royal British Legion Standards.
“I truly wish I had sought advice at the time and avoided all the damage I have caused. In my misguided thinking and zeal, not only did I remove the standards, but I also made my decision irreversible by destroying them. I utterly regret this inappropriate and unacceptable action. I repent, and wish to make a full and deeply felt public apology to all those I have insulted, undermined and offended by my actions.“
In his letter Rev Sutton apologised to the Bishop and Parishioners, the Royal British Legion and members of the Loyal Orders as well as his family and friends.
Concluding he added “My desire and heart has only ever been to make Jesus known and to draw as many people as possible to Him, to advance the hope of peace and love in this troubled land. As I got this so blatantly wrong with my actions, I feel I can do no other at this stage than to offer my resignation as rector of Newry.”
Accepting his resignation the Bishop of Down and Dromore said "The recent situation in the Parish of Newry with regard to the Royal British Legion standards has been very painful indeed. I welcome the statement of apology from the rector, Revd Kingsley Sutton, which was issued last night to the local Royal British Legion and the Select Vestries of St Patrick’s and St Mary’s. The rector also offered me his resignation and sadly, I feel I must accept it.
"I have been in touch with the Royal British Legion, the Select Vestries and the Apprentice Boys of Derry, to arrange to meet with them as we seek a way forward, and would like to thank all concerned for their helpfulness and graciousness."
