The Anglican Diocese of British Columbia has temporarily softened its position against a pair of priests who have been suspended for leading a congregation of breakaways.

Diocesan Archdeacon Bruce Bryant-Scott wrote in an e-mail to parishioners on Thursday that he has agreed to a 12-day grace period, during which no disciplinary action will be taken against the Venerable Sharon Hayton, the rector, and Rev. Andrew Hewlett, the assistant priest, of St. Mary's of the Incarnation in the Victoria suburb of Metchosin.

Ms. Hayton and Mr. Hewlett were told a week ago to stop performing their duties "as an ordained priest."

"You will recall that the inhibition required that they not contact members of the parish, but during this period I will not take notice if they do," Mr. Bryant-Scott wrote after a meeting with the two and their lawyers on Wednesday.

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Filed under: * Anglican - Episcopal • Anglican Provinces • Anglican Church of Canada

1. azusa wrote: “You will recall that the inhibition required that they not contact members of the parish, but during this period I will not take notice if they do,” Mr. Bryant-Scott wrote after a meeting with the two and their lawyers on Wednesday. Gee, does that mean free speech exists in Canada? Following the Ezra Levant story, I was beginning to doubt this. What a pompous, self-important stuffed clerical shirt this man sounds! February 24, 3:55 pm | [comment link]

2. Harvey wrote: This type of Bishop reaction seems to come from the same mind that says we should recognize same sex relationship blessings. ( Do it our way or get out and leave. ) February 24, 8:42 pm | [comment link]

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