Anglican Church rules against ‘disgraceful’ bishop

A SPECIAL tribunal of the Anglican Church has found eight of nine conduct charges proven against former bishop of the Murray Diocese, Ross Davies.

It has made a formal recommendation that he be removed from office, but noted Mr Davies has already relinquished the office of Bishop of the Murray.

The tribunal sitting in Adelaide heard the matter in the absence of Mr Davies, who claimed he was too ill to attend.

The bishop resigned last Friday and was facing nine internal charges including disgraceful conduct and wilful violation of church ordinances.

The tribunal found he bullied and threatened parishioners and regularly attended services for other denominations.

Murray parishioner Lee Lyons said it had been a long wait for a decision.

“It’s probably one of those things you shouldn’t feel good about but I do feel good,” she said.

“It’s been five-plus, five years, a long, long time and it’s great.

“It’s a win for the parish, it’s a win for the diocese and it’s a win for the church.”

Another parishioner Max Spoehr also said it had been a long process.

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