Church scandal: new complaints filed against 69-year-old female bishop

In the Scottish Episcopal Church again suspended 69-year-old Anna Dyer, who heads the diocese of Aberdeen and Orkney Islands. The decision stems from a new complaint about alleged violations of the church code, as well as ongoing allegations of harassment of staff and clerics, the BBC reported.

Dyer became the first female bishop in the Scottish Episcopal Church. She was first removed from office in 2022 after complaints of bullying. However, an independent church prosecutor then decided not to proceed with the proceedings, considering it not in the public interest. The bishop then returned to work.

The new suspension became known after a separate complaint concerning the alleged violation of church rules in the appointment of a church that temporarily served as a cathedral. The Church stressed that the suspension at this stage is automatic and in itself does not indicate Dyer’s guilt.

As the BBC found out, claims against the bishop continue to come. The abbot of St Andrew's Cathedral in Aberdeen, Isaac Pubalan, claims she tried to secure his departure and her behaviour negatively affected his mental health.

Seminary graduate Jen Bressers said that during the first meeting, Dyer raised her voice and said that the possible ordination would only provide for an unpaid position due to insufficient spiritual training.

Another female priest said the bishop found her unfit for ministry, citing alleged mental instability. There was also a complaint from a disabled diocese employee who accused Dyer of harassment and discrimination.

According to the BBC, at least six complaints of alleged misconduct have been filed against the bishop over the past year. Dyer herself denies the bullying allegations and calls the new claims completely unfounded.

Earlier, the bishop announced her intention to restore trust and improve relations within the diocese. In February, when she turns 70, she plans to retire.