17 November 2013
The Revd Paul Flowers
We have issued the following statement, which may be
attributed to a Methodist Church spokesperson.
"We expect high standards of our ministers and we have procedures
in place for when ministers fail to meet those
standards.
"Paul is suspended from duties for a period of three
weeks, pending investigations, and will not be available to carry
out any ministerial work. We will also work with the police if they
feel a crime has been committed."
We are also asking people to pray for all those involved in and
affected by this story.
Paul also offers the following statement:
"This year has been incredibly difficult, with a death in
the family and the pressures of my role with the Cooperative Bank.
At the lowest point in this terrible period, I did things that were
stupid and wrong. I am sorry for this, and I am seeking
professional help, and apologise to all I have hurt or failed by my
actions."
We will not make any further comment at this time, but will issue
further statements as appropriate.