Retired priest to marry male model 54 years his junior

A retired vicar who will marry a man 54 years his junior this month has defended himself after being compared to Judas.

The Rev Philip Clements, 78, says he repressed his sexuality throughout his career because of the Church’s stance on homosexuality.

Now, as he prepares to marry his partner of two years, Florin Marin, 24, he is calling on the Church of England to change its policy on same-sex marriage.

Mr Clements, who lives in Eastry, near Deal, was compared to Judas Iscariot by Reg Scarborough, from Sandwich, who added: “We now have the ex-vicar of Eastry, who has spent even more time in Christian service without understanding the Bible or Christianity, now trying to force the Church into his views about marrying gay clergy.

“I cannot see why the Church should also take any notice of him, especially as he can these days get a (secular) civil ceremony.”

Mr Clements, who labelled the comments “over the top” said: “I’m still a Christian, and loyal and faithful to Jesus and his teaching.

“Judas did a terrible thing. I’ve never betrayed Jesus and I would never encourage people to do that.”

Mr Clements, who grew up in Deal and attended Dover Grammar School, said he has experienced very few negative responses regarding his sexuality.

He said: “I’ve only had one baptist put her head down and walk past me but she might have done that anyway.

“My friends have accepted it and have sent us messages of support.”

Mr Clements and Mr Marin moved to Romania last week. They will return to England to marry at Ramsgate Register Office on Tuesday, April 25.