The Bishop of Chester has intervened in an increasingly fraught dispute between a village rector and members of her congregation, following a series of anonymous attacks that have involved church authorities and law enforcement.
Rt Rev Dr Mark Tanner described the ongoing conflict at St Oswald’s Church in Malpas as “devastating”, warning that the row threatens the long-term stability of the parish.
Tensions escalated over Easter when anonymous flyers criticising the incumbent, the Rev Dr Janine Arnott, were allegedly posted around Chester Cathedral.
According to The Times, Bishop Mark said the materials were “factually incorrect, libellous, and sought by forgery to impersonate a bishop”.
Rev Dr Arnott, who took up her post in 2022, reportedly lost a vote of confidence the following year amid claims from some parishioners that her leadership style was “authoritarian”.
She is said to have responded that she was “trying to run the church calmly in the face of strong opposition”.
One flyer, signed by a group calling itself “Little Malpas People”, accused Bishop Mark of failing to support the congregation.
It read: “Dear Bishop Mark, please do your moral duty and protect your flock. We shouldn’t have to keep toeing the line only to get demonised by you. It’s disgusting. You wasted our time and kept your hands clean for three years now at our expense. You know it, as do we.”
Bishop Mark expressed concern that the atmosphere surrounding the parish could deter prospective clergy.
“The impact on any future recruitment of clergy to serve in Malpas is devastating,” he said. “We who have a long-term concern for the life and work of St Oswald’s Church need to realise how this behaviour will appear to any candidates in the future.”
A spokesperson for the Diocese of Chester said the situation had reached a point that necessitated external intervention.
“We are concerned and deeply saddened by the situation. It is entirely appropriate for parishioners to raise concerns or seek clarification on leadership and pastoral matters; however, there seems to have been an intention by some to cause damage, disruption and division.”
They confirmed that the police and other authorities are now involved due to the nature of the communications, and said Rev Dr Arnott is receiving appropriate support.
“She will not be commenting publicly,” the spokesperson added.
