Preaching ban for ex-East Anglia Methodist chief 

A 12-month preaching and pastoral ban has been given to former president of the Methodist Conference, Rev Graham Thompson, who was previously the East Anglia District Chair, following a safeguarding investigation into his conduct. Keith Morris reports.

A statement from the Methodist church says: “The investigation into the ex-President Rev Graham Thompson has concluded. It was instigated after concerns were raised about Mr Thompson’s safeguarding leadership as chair of district.
 
“The Safeguarding Committee has concluded that Mr Thompson should not take part in any front-facing, preaching and/or pastoral roles within the Methodist Church for a period of at least 12 months, during which time he will undertake additional safeguarding training.
 
“The Methodist Church is profoundly sorry for those who have been affected where good safeguarding practice has not been upheld in relation to both individuals and the wider church community.
 
“The Methodist Church’s safeguarding responsibilities are at the core of our mission. We are determined to make our churches a place of safety for all and will continue to do all we can to support survivors, act when we receive disclosures and respond appropriately to allegations about the behaviour of individuals, however senior,” concluded the statement.
 
Rev Thompson was elected as President for a year from June 2022 and was suspended from the role in June 2023 just before his year of service ended.
 
At the time of his election he said: “I am overwhelmed by the designation and humbled by the belief that Conference has in me. I will do all I can to serve God and the Church as we discern our path, emerging from the pandemic.” 

Before offering for Methodist ministry, Graham worked as an accountant. He has served in a variety of Circuits, urban and rural, both as Presbyter and Superintendent as well as serving on a variety of Methodist trusts, boards and Connexional committees. He also served as Chair of the Plymouth and Exeter District, following the same role in the East Anglia District.

Read our previous story on this topic.

Pictured above is Rev Graham Thompson. Picture by the Methodist Church.