Ynys Môn MP Virginia Crosbie has received a letter from the Bishop of Bangor apologising for social media behaviour by “someone who associates with the Church in Wales”.
A member of the congregation at St Cybi’s church, Holyhead, accused Ms Crosbie of “schmoozing” at a Sunday service. The post also commented “who is she trying to kid?” about an offer to help with funding applications.
Ms Crosbie wrote to the Bishop of Bangor to complain about the congregation member’s “offensive” post, which was put up about an hour after she left the church on 30 May.
She said in the letter she had been in church that Sunday as a worshipper, rather than on an official work visit.
“I am exceptionally disappointed that my attendance, and subsequent discussion about how I can help the church, have been shared publicly in such a disrespectful, unkind and unchristian way,” she wrote.
“I was expecting to find spiritual support in my parish and I hope that in future my attendance at church will not be placed in the public domain and ridiculed.”
The Bishop of Bangor replied that the post was “unkind and unacceptable” and apologised.
“May I apologise unreservedly for the behaviour of someone who associates with the Church in Wales,” he replied.
“Their behaviour was unkind and unacceptable.
“We are addressing the specific behaviour with the individuals concerned and expect this not to happen again.
“More generally I am repeating my guidelines on appropriate use of social media and the Christian responsibility for tolerance and respect through my regular bishop’s letter,” he wrote.
Ms Crosbie posted on Facebook this evening: “I would like to thank the bishop for his actions and the wider Christian community on the island for their kindness. It’s not a nice feeling to go to a church and then be treated in such an unchristian way. Let’s hope the person who did this to me realises their mistake.”
She later added: “I’ve been bowled over by the kind words and support from all over Anglesey and especially from the Christian community. It appears my experience has touched a nerve … Thank you everyone. The values of tolerance and love are so important.”
