NHS trust’s ‘regret’ over clergyman barred from hospital role over same-sex marriage

Canon Jeremy Pemberton 
had hoped to work as a chaplain for the Sherwood Forest 
Hospitals NHS Trust, but was 
not granted authorisation by 
the Diocese of Southwell 
and Nottingham because he entered into a same-sex marriage in April.

In a short statement confirming it had revoked its offer to the clergyman, the trust’s executive director of human resources, Karen Fisher, said: “Jeremy Pemberton’s offer of employment was subject to an approved licence from the Church of England and authorisation from the interim Bishop of Nottingham and Southwell.

“This licence was not granted and regrettably the trust has withdrawn the offer of employment.

“We wish Jeremy all the very best for the future.”

Canon Pemberton has called on Church leaders to urgently examine the bishop’s decision to refuse him a licence to work as a chaplain.

The bishop, the Rt Rev Richard Inwood, announced last month that the canon’s permission to officiate in the diocese had been revoked in view of the Church of England’s pastoral guidance on same-sex marriage.

Canon Pemberton has questioned the legality of the church’s stance on gay marriage. Speaking at the weekend, the clergyman said he was very disappointed he would be unable to take up the position.