In Hartford, Hereford and Hampshire.... Bishop withdraws license (Hereford

[Chicago Democrat]

OK call this... news of the archaine



http://www.churchnewspaper.com/news.php?read=on&number_key=5776&title=Bishop%20withdraws%20licence


Bishop withdraws licence
Number: 5776 Date: July 8,
The Bishop of Hereford has decided to withdraw the licence for worship at an unconsecrated church, the scene of a seven-year dispute between the diocese and the self-appointed council of St Anne’s Church. Services will no longer be able to take place in the building in Lea Cross.

In the latest twist in a long-running saga, Bishop Anthony Priddis said: “This is not a decision I have taken lightly after consultation with the people of Pontesbury, and with the Deanery and Archdeaconry Committees who have agreed with me that this will be the best for the future of the whole parish, of which Lea Cross is a part.”

Since the keys to St Anne’s were taken seven years ago, neither the diocese nor the vicar have been able to gain entry to the building at Lea Cross. The priest responsible for the church, the Rev David Hewlett, vicar of Pontesbury who was licensed to serve the church, has only been able to enter the building by invitation.

In February of this year, diocesan officials along with a locksmith were given authorisation by a church court order to enter the building and replace the locks. The diocese also erected security fencing. Nevertheless, by March, the security had been breached and the new locks removed.