The late David Fletcher Church said he was “deeply shocked” after the Church of England said it had received information about the previous president about “sexual abuse and coercive and dominant behaviour.”
Fletcher was the president of St. Ebb, a leading evangelical church in Oxford from 1986 to 1998, and was a member of the congregation until his death three years ago.
The Church of England’s National Conservation Team (NST) and Oxford Parish received information about Fletcher following the publication of the Makin Review in November last year. .
In a statement, NST commented on the information it received, saying, “This was reported to the police and recorded as a crime.”
“We are grateful for your brave progression, and they provided support.
“The Revd Fletcher family provided information and support.”
Before becoming president of St. Ebb, Fletcher led Smith’s Iwane camp in Dorset from 1967 to 1986. Makin’s review found that Smith used camp as a way to groom the boys for abuse, and Fletcher helped him hide it.
The NST statement came after allegations on Channel 4 News broadcast by three women who were sexually abused by Fletcher in the 1970s and ’80s.
St Ebbe’s issued its own statement, which said it was “deeply shocked” and “very scary” by their testimony.
“They were incredibly brave to share their testimony. We embrace all the victims and survivors of abuse in prayer, and we deeply hope for their healing and recovery, and we move forward. I pray very much for all those who have been affected by this announcement.”
The church said in 2017 it received a report from two women of inappropriate behaviour by Fletcher.
“No other concerns have been reported in St. Ebb in connection with him,” the statement continued.
“In light of the 31:8 illumination of (David Fletcher’s brother) Jonathan Fletcher’s abuse, the PCC conducted a governance review, including conservation procedures and cultural reviews.
“This has led to an ongoing process of cultural reflection and we are also considering the lessons and recommendations from the Makin Review.
“We are committed to doing everything we can to make St Ebbe a safe and healthy community.”
The statement was signed by current President Vaughn Roberts, Parish Safeguard Niki Ridgway, and Churchward Greg Bliss and Suzanne Wilson Higgins.
Anyone affected by the issues raised in this article can contact the Church of England Conservation Team, the Oxford Parish Conservation Team, or the Safe Space.
