Leaders of the Anglican Diocese of British Columbia have released the following statement, outlining the recent decision of two dissenting clergy to step down from ministry at St. Mary of the Incarnation Church.

On March 3, 2008, the Venerable Sharon Hayton and the Reverend Andrew Hewlett, accompanied by counsel, met with the executive officer and commissary to the Bishop, the Venerable Bruce Bryant-Scott, to resolve issues of employment.

After discussion, Sharon Hayton and Andrew Hewlett relinquished their exercise of ordained ministry within the Anglican Church of Canada, according to the terms of Canon 19 of the General Synod of the Anglican Church of Canada. Their employment with the Diocese of British Columbia has ceased on agreed terms.

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The relinquishments under Canon 19 mean that they have concluded their employment with the diocese, and have resigned their positions as rector and assistant priest at the Parish of St. Mary of the Incarnation, Metchosin.

The parties have agreed to a further meeting under the auspices of the Most Reverend Terry Buckle, Archbishop of British Columbia and Yukon, to seek an alternative to litigation respecting the property, assets and continued use of the premises of St. Mary of the Incarnation, Metchosin.

On behalf of the Diocese of British Columbia, Archdeacon Bryant-Scott has agreed to the continued use of the building of St. Mary of the Incarnation, Metchosin by the Anglican Network congregation, pending further discussions with the Most Reverend Terry Buckle.

This agreement does not affect potential legal positions regarding the use of the property.

April 2008