The Diocese of Guildford has released this statement by the Rev. Stephen Sizer:
I very much regret and apologise for the distress caused by the sharing on Facebook of a link to an article about 9/11 from Wikispooks.
It was particularly insensitive in that last week coincided with Holocaust Memorial Day. I removed the link as soon as I received adverse feedback, and realised that offence had been caused.
I have never believed Israel or any other country was complicit in the terrorist atrocity of 9/11, and my sharing of this material was ill-considered and misguided.
At the request of the Diocese, I will be suspending my use of all social media and blogs with immediate effect and until further notice.
Guildford has issued this statement by the Rt. Rev. Ian Brackley, Bishop of Dorking:
The Diocese of Guildford is aware of reports regarding the Rev. Dr. Stephen Sizer and materials linked from his social media account, which have now been deleted.
I want to reassure everyone that we are taking this complaint extremely seriously. Immediate steps are being taken to investigate and we are in contact with Dr. Sizer as well as the Board of Deputies [of British Jews].
The Diocese of Guildford is committed to building cohesive communities and fostering strong interfaith relations built on trust and respect.
In 2013, the Diocese of Guildford facilitated a process of conciliation between Dr. Sizer and the Board of Deputies, and is committed to ensuring this agreement is upheld.
