By James Maden
This is Hampshire
August 15 2010
http://www.thisishampshire.net/news/8332748.Vicar_returns_to_work_after_being_cleared_of_accusations/
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| Rev Canon Barry Fry |
A SOUTHAMPTON vicar has returned to the pulpit for the first time in more than a year since he was suspended by the church following a complaint of indecent assault.
The Rev Canon Barry Fry is now allowed to address the congregation of St Barnabas C of E Church in Portswood again after an inquiry by the Diocese of Winchester found there was “no case to answer”.
Although they refused to reveal what the complaint was, the church investigation came shortly after a police inquiry into historic allegations of indecent assault involving a child.
Canon Fry was first suspended by the church after he was arrested in February last year, but police dropped their investigation within weeks due to lack of evidence.
At the time the church bosses immediately lifted their suspension, but just a few weeks later they suspended him again.
Since then they have refused to confirm the nature of the complaint or whether it related to the earlier allegations made against him.
The Daily Echo understands that a local priest from another parish and a retired priest took it in turns to lead services in the canon’s absence.
Speaking exclusively to the Daily Echo, Canon Fry said: “When a nightmare lasting some two years ends, the sense of relief is enormous and I thank God that the serious allegations made against me have now finally been dismissed and that I have been completely exonerated in all respects.”
Currently the longest serving vicar in the city after 23 years in the city, Canon Fry added that he was “eternally grateful” for being exonerated him and that he could return to work without a blemish on his character.
He added about his return: “I look forward in faith and hope to a period of peace and calm so as to enable me to recover from this long ordeal.
“I also look forward to reestablishing my ministry in this parish and amongst my parishioners whom it has been my great privilege to serve and care for these past 23 years.”
In a statement the Diocese confirmed it had now lifted the suspension as church authority leaders found “there was no case to answer”.
“A complaint was made against the canon, vicar of St Barnabas, Southampton, under the Clergy Discipline Measure, and following due process has been considered by the President of Tribunals and found that there was no case to answer.
“The Bishop of Winchester, the Rt Rev Michael Scott- Joynt, suspended Canon Fry from all priestly duties in accordance with the Measure and referred the case to the Designated Officer for formal investigation.
“The Designated Officer conducted a detailed investigation and presented findings to the President of the Tribunals.
“The President of Tribunals, Lord Justice Mummery has considered the complaint and said that the bishop was right to refer the matter to the Designated Officer.
“Following the conclusion of the disciplinary process, the suspension from priestly duties has been lifted.
“The bishop is grateful to all those who have been and may continue to provide pastoral care to the parish and maintain its worship during this very difficult period.
“The bishop is also grateful to the congregation and parishioners of St Barnabas for their patience during this period.”
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