ZIM ANTI-GAY BISHOP FIGHTS BACK

A Zimbabwean Bishop who split from the Anglican Church because of its apparently pro-gay policies is attempting to hold on to his cathedral at any cost.

According to The Zimbabwe Guardian, the country’s highest court ruled last week that Bishop Nolbert Kunonga cannot retain the Cathedral of St Mary and All Saints in Harare following his split from the church.

The court said that the property was rightfully owned by the Anglican Church after Kunonga was stripped of his position and clergyman’s licence.

The church synod has attempted to install a new bishop, Sebastian Bakare, at the cathedral, but Kunonga and a group of supporters have barricaded themselves in the building.

When two church representatives attempted to access the cathedral they were badly beaten by Kananga’s supporters. Police watched and stood by as Kunonga’s followers locked the doors and gates. The authorities have apparently refused to act on the court order.

Kunonga, who is said to be supported by President Robert Mugabe, has vocally opposed the ordination of gays and lesbians by the Anglican Church.

The installation of Bishop Bakare was forced to take place at a football club two kilometres from the cathedral.