Scottish Bishops Clash Over Bishop Anne Dyer’s Return Amid Bullying Allegations

A deepening rift within the Scottish Episcopal Church (SEC) has erupted as four bishops, including Primus Most Rev Mark Strange, have publicly urged Bishop Anne Dyer to reconsider resuming her role as Bishop of Aberdeen and Orkney. This comes after Church Procurator Paul Reid KC dropped bullying charges against her, despite finding sufficient evidence for a potential conviction.

Bishop Anne has vehemently condemned the intervention, labeling it “ill-considered and inflammatory” and accusing her colleagues of acting in an “unprofessional and un-Christian manner.” She revealed that three bishops had privately issued an ultimatum for her to step down within 24 hours, while she was on holiday. Bishop Anne firmly stated, “I will not allow them to pressure me into quitting a role I cherish, nor abandon a Diocese that has shown me overwhelming love and support.” She also alleged being the target of a “campaign of bullying” by a small group within the church.

Graham Robertson, diocesan chancellor, criticized the bishops’ actions as “ultra vires” and argued that their letter violated employment law and human rights legislation. Bishop Anne, suspended since August 2022, is expected to return on October 24. A separate investigation into diocesan accounts by the Scottish Charity Regulator remains ongoing, fueling concerns about the church’s governance and accountability. As tensions escalate, the SEC faces a critical test of its leadership, unity, and commitment to justice.