The JC understands that over the last two weeks Dr Sizer was again found to have posted statuses on Facebook about the Middle East, once more breaching the terms of his agreement.
In a statement issued today by Bishop Watson, the Church confirmed: “Dr Stephen Sizer has again contravened the agreement he made in February 2015.”
The Bishop said Dr Sizer planned to retire next month, on Easter Sunday, but that he had been required “to cease all preaching, teaching and leading of services with immediate effect” and to “desist from all use of social media until his retirement takes effect”.
However, despite the Bishop saying he was “very disappointed by Dr Sizer’s actions”, he conceded that Dr Sizer should be allowed to lead his ministry over the Easter weekend in order “to allow the parish of Virginia Water to say a proper goodbye”.
Jonathan Arkush, Board of Deputies president, said: “Stephen Sizer has repeatedly transgressed the terms of the agreement he made with the Church of England on 14 February 2015. He was issued with a final warning on 2 November 2016 following yet another breach.
“So it is very disappointing that the Church has allowed him to remain in his ministry, albeit with restrictions, until Easter, when he will again be permitted to preach.
“The Jewish community will feel let down that the church has failed to dismiss a minister who has repeatedly posted slurs.”
