A statement of apology from the Revd Kingsley Sutton
In the light of the unfolding events here in Newry since I unwisely and forcefully removed the Royal British Legion Standards from St Patrick’s and St Mary’s churches, I wish to make a full and unreserved apology.
In my haste to provide worship areas in Newry that are more accessible to all people and free from what I perceived as the vestiges of the past, I completely underestimated the depth of meaning and present day value of the Royal British Legion Standards.
I truly wish I had sought advice at the time and avoided all the damage I have caused. In my misguided thinking and zeal, not only did I remove the standards, but I also made my decision irreversible by destroying them. I utterly regret this inappropriate and unacceptable action. I repent, and wish to make a full and deeply felt public apology to all those I have insulted, undermined and offended by my actions.
I apologise to the Royal British Legion, to its members and supporters, and anyone else I have hurt in my ignorance, especially those for whom the standards hold particular meaning and connection. If I can ease the hurt I have caused, even at this late stage, I here commit myself to doing so.
I apologise to the Select Vestry members and parishioners of St Patrick’s and St Mary’s, Newry, for abusing my role as their leader and for causing them deep embarrassment and tremendous stress.
I apologise to the bishop for disobeying his leadership and have since fully resubmitted myself to the structures of authority within the Church of Ireland.
In relation to my recent insensitive remarks, I also apologise to members of the Loyal Orders, and in particular to the Apprentice Boys of Derry, and wish to show more respect for their traditions and values.
I also apologise to my family and friends for the difficult and serious situation that I have put them in. I commit myself to learning from my mistakes.
My desire and heart has only ever been to make Jesus known and to draw as many people as possible to Him, to advance the hope of peace and love in this troubled land. As I got this so blatantly wrong with my actions, I feel I can do no other at this stage than to offer my resignation as rector of Newry.
Revd Kingsley Sutton
21 October 2015