PARISH DISPUTE

Evening Post, Volume CXVII, Issue 106, 7 May 1934, Page 10

PARISH DISPUTE

DEPOSED VICAE

OPENS NEW N CHURCH

(By Telegraph.— I'ress Association.)

CAMBRIDGE, This Day

As was not unexpected, there were interesting happenings at Cambridge yesterday in connection with the Anglican Parish Church troubles. ■ , ■

When the Rev.G. G. Bell arrived at tho.parish church, St. Andrew's, a little before 7 a.m. ho found the doors of the church securely locked. To keep .faith with his promise to his supporters Mr. 801 l decided to hold early Communion services,at "a private chapel' in Bryce Street, where he set up an altar. In an interview Mr. Bell reiterated his contention that he was still Vicar of Cambridge, .and said that meanwhile services would be held by him at this chapel, which was designated "the parish church ; of St. Francis."

The Bishop held three well-attended services during the day at St. Andrew's, but made no reference to the dispute other than to say that he would hold services regularly, as previously. Mr. Bell held two Communion services at his chapel, and stated that it was filled to capacity. Referring to the district services, Mr. Bell said that he celebrated Communion during the morning at Christ Church, Ohaupo,, without •hindrance. Ho had been informed by the church warden of St. Stephen's, Tamahcre, that they would decline to hand over the keys to the Bishop, as a protest against his depriving the vicar of his living. -

The latest move by Mr. Bell was the nailing to the main door of St. Andrew's Church at about noon yester-day-of a declaration accusing the Bishop of the siu of schism in holding services without Mr. Bell's authority; He 'also,- charges -the, Bishop with unlawfully declaring the living vacant, and calls upon the Bishop to repent and make restitution without delay.