Clergy accused of closing ranks in row

A Carnoustie councillor has accused the clergy of “closing ranks” over his stance against a local minister.

Brian Boyd is coming under pressure after taking aim at the Rev Mike Goss in the wake of a petition lodged by Carnoustie High pupils urging Angus Council to dump him from his school chaplaincy role amid allegations of bigotry.

The Independent councillor described Mr Goss as “an extreme anti-LGBTQ+ activist” and suggested there was “not a good relationship between Mr Goss and the schools he attends and with other ministers within the town”.

John Toller from Carnoustie Baptist Church and Rob Barlow from the Erskine United Free Church – in statements copied to The Courier – told Mr Boyd they were “not aware” of any difficulties between Mr Goss and the other ministers in the town.

The Rev Dougal Edwards – an ordained minister who works in Carnoustie when required – also wrote a letter to The Courier stating Mr Boyd should not include him “when he says that there is a poor relationship” between ministers.

Mr Barlow entered the row yesterday and claimed Mr Boyd “misrepresented” his relationship with Mr Goss.

He has also demanded a public apology “which explicitly states that you were wrong to implicate me, or other ministers and that you do not speak for me in any way”.

Mr Barlow said: “Whilst I cannot make any claims for other ministers within the town I can most categorically state that I get on well with Mr Goss, both professionally and privately.”

Mr Barlow also expressed his support for Mr Goss stating he also takes “an orthodox Biblical stance on marriage and sexuality”.

However, Mr Boyd said the clergy was closing ranks.

He said: “These people do not realise the damage that they are causing to these churches when they have – in my opinion – such outdated views in the 21st Century.

“Mr Goss clearly stated that ‘same-sex relationships are not what God has planned for us as human beings’ then he is surprised at the general public’s outrage at these comments and I’m confused that other ministers are supporting this stance in 2018.”

Speaking directly to Mr Barlow, Mr Boyd said: “I have lived in the town for nearly 45 years so have seen many ministers come and go.

“I find your preaching to me, copying in the press, simply unacceptable.”

Picture: Kim Cessford. Brian Boyd has refused to apologise over his criticism of a Carnoustie minister.