Anglican Archbishop Laish Boyd speaks to the media yesterday.

Published On:Thursday, March 04, 2010

By NATARIO McKENZIE

Tribune Staff Reporter

nmckenzie@tribunemedia.net

WITHIN hours after a judge lifted an injunction that prohibited the removal of Anglican Archdeacon Etienne Bowleg as rector of the Most Holy Trinity Anglican Church, locksmiths were busy on the church grounds changing locks.

The protracted court battle involving Archdeacon Bowleg and the Anglican Archdiocese came to an end yesterday following a hearing that lasted some three hours before Senior Justice Jon Isaacs.

Senior Justice Isaacs had granted an injunction blocking Anglican Archbishop Laish Boyd or anyone else from removing Archdeacon Bowleg until his court matter had been heard.

Attorney Damian Gomez, who represents the Anglican Archdiocese, told reporters after the hearing yesterday: "We presented our arguments and the attorney for Father Bowleg conceded that he ought to have disclosed but failed to disclose his deed of institution.

"On that basis, and on the additional basis that damages would have been a more appropriate remedy, the injunction was discharged with costs."

Mr Gomez said this means that Anglican Archbishop Laish Boyd can now install whomever he desires as rector of the Stapeldon Gardens parish.

The court battle stemmed from a dispute that had arisen over Archdeacon Bowleg's contention that he is 64, although with a 1937 birth certificate, he is recognised by the Anglican Diocese as being 72, two years beyond the mandatory retirement age for Anglican priests.

Following yesterday's proceedings, Archbishop Laish Boyd stated: "I am very happy with the decision that the court has made. We are grateful that justice was done."

Former Archbishop Drexel Gomez added: "I think it is unfortunate that the issue had to be raised but it's good to have it clarified and I hope it will bring peace to the church."

Locksmiths got to work changing the locks at the parish shortly after 2pm yesterday afternoon, minutes after Archbishop Boyd and several other Anglican clergymen arrived at the church grounds.

Bishop Boyd assured parishioners yesterday that the parish would still function as usual.

Archdeacon Bowleg was said to be out of office when The Tribune arrived at the church grounds yesterday and was reportedly making preparations to travel.