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The Press
June 10, 2003
Police called in over letter sent to bishop
by David King
Police
have been called in to investigate a threatening letter sent to the Anglican
Bishop of Christchurch.
Bishop David Coles said the letter had been received two weeks ago.
"We have referred the matter to the police. It is in the hands of the
police. I am not making any comment; they are making inquiries."
He said the letter contained threats and that was the reason for the church's
silence on the issue.
"Potentially it could be a matter for action," he said.
It is understood the letter, which was signed with a woman's christian name, was addressed to
the bishop and raised questions over moral standards in the church.
The letter was copied to other clergy. Clergyman said they were anxious not to
break ranks and speak about the letter.
One said: "It has caused a stir because it was addressed to the bishop but
sent to us. It's a very difficult letter in many ways. The issues it raises are
important but it probably wasn't the best way to raise it."
Police confirmed an investigation was under way but said it was in its early
stages."
The letter is the latest setback for the Anglican Church.
In March, author Louise Deans revealed that she and two other women who said
they were sexually harassed and abused by an Anglican priest received payouts
ranging from $8000 to $30,000 each.
In April this year a student who accused a Maori Anglican bishop of racial
insults revealed she received a secret payout of $10,000.
Miriama Mokomoko claimed
she was driven from a social services course by bullying tactics from Bishop
John Gray, head of the Maori Anglican church in the