A Church of England Tribunal examining a complaint under the Clergy Discipline Measure (CDM) against the Rev Rob Ryan, Priest in Charge of Little Ilford St Barnabas in the Diocese of Chelmsford, has upheld a ruling of conduct unbecoming or inappropriate to the office and work of a Clerk in Holy Orders.
The complaint relates to conduct during Mr Ryan’s time as a member of clergy in the Diocese of Rochester. The complaint related to non-recent allegations and did not involve children.
The tribunal has imposed a penalty of removal from office, a limited prohibition for a period of 6 months, and injunctions. The full determination and penalty can be found on the Church of England website here
In response to the conclusion of the CDM process, the Bishop of Rochester, the Rt Rev Dr Jonathan Gibbs has said:
‘Clergy hold significant positions of trust and responsibility in their communities and are quite rightly held to high standards of integrity and morality.
‘I am deeply sorry that in this case, Mr Ryan’s behaviour has fallen so far short of what is expected of those who are ordained. I fully support the findings of the tribunal and the penalty applied.
‘I want to pay tribute to the bravery of those who have brought this matter to light. I am all too aware that to do so comes at great personal cost. I hold all those affected in my prayers.
‘While I welcome the fact that this process has now concluded, I deeply regret the length of time it has taken and for the stress, anxiety, and damage that has been caused to all involved.
‘As was stated at the Independent Inquiry into Child Sexual Abuse (IICSA), the CDM process is often too slow and not a suitable process, particularly for safeguarding cases.
‘The CDM process is currently under review and so I pray for and encourage all those involved in this work, as they seek to shape a system that embodies compassion, justice and grace.’
Recognising the ongoing impact caused by any harm experienced in the Church, there is support available. Please visit our Safeguarding pages where we signpost to a range of assistance available: www.rochester.anglican.org/safeguarding/
ENDS
Any media enquiries should be directed to Jennifer Ross, Communications Manager at jennifer.ross@rochester.anglican.org / 07526 171 583