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To the People of the Diocese of New Westminster                         

I am deeply saddened by the disturbing information released by the Surrey RCMP on May 19, 2022, concerning an historical sexual assault that allegedly took place in the 1980s at one of the parishes of the Diocese of New Westminster. The text of the Media Release is available below. 

The accused is a lay leader in our diocese. No Complaint alleging misconduct on the part of the accused has ever been received by either the diocese, the parish where he worshipped at the time or his current parish. However, if a criminal complaint is raised, the diocese defers to and respects the integrity of that process. Allegations of sexual abuse directed toward clergy and lay of our diocese are taken very seriously and action immediately taken. 

When the accusation came to light earlier this Spring, the accused was contacted in writing by the rector of his parish informing him that effective immediately and until further notice he is relieved of all ministry responsibilities. 

Please join with me in prayer for all involved, the victim, the accused, their families, the two affected congregations, and ask also for God’s wisdom and guidance to direct all who are involved as the investigation unfolds. 

Please join me in prayer:

Gracious God of love and peace help us to hear the cries of those who have been abused and deeply harmed. Calm their hearts and minds that their shaken spirits might find strength, guiding them as they seek justice, leading them to peace.  Comfort all those who have been affected by this news. We ask that you bestow your guidance on all those whose vocations direct them to seek justice and truth and grant them wisdom as they continue with this investigation.

Give us the faith and courage to follow Jesus, drawing good from evil, life from death, and through your enduring love deepen our respect for the dignity of every human life.

Amen

The Right Reverend John Stephens

Bishop, Anglican Diocese of New Westminster

 Ed. Note: As the individual named in the Media Release was later acquitted of all charges, the Media Release has now been removed from the Post.