Vicar’s apology after rant over ‘grumbling among flock’

A VICAR has been forced to apologise after sending out a letter accusing some of his “grumbling” church members of “sabotaging his ministry”.

Rev Andy Thewlis has taken a “sabbatical break for three months” after his letter to his congregation at All Saints Church in Burbage, Wiltshire.

He has now apologised following an urgent meeting with the bishop, The Rt Rev Nick Holtam, in Salisbury.

In the letter, Rev Thewlis complained he had not been provided with a comprehensive list of songs known to the congregation, which “demonstrates an unwillingness to cooperate”.

He claimed there was a culture of “non-compliance … with respect to implementing the policies and practices of the Church of England.

“The Sunday morning worship experience is neither warm, nor welcoming. It does not portray real love joy or peace. Rather it reflects an organisation that is characterised by grumbling, gossip, and disunity.

“Criticism and negativism are predominant behaviour traits in too many church members. Some people through their actions are actively sabotaging the ministry of their vicar and their church.

“The arrogance of some church members through emails and conversations on an almost daily basis is wearisome. It drains energy, robs enthusiasm and reveals that some would prefer not to have a vicar.”

The Salisbury Diocese said “Mr Thewlis has now written a letter of apology to those who received his letter, which was inappropriate in both tenor and content. The Bishop has also offered Mr Thewlis pastoral support including sabbatical time to consider his future and he has accepted this.”