The Dean of Waiapu Cathedral, the Very Rev Dr Michael Godfrey, has been stood down from his position.

The Bishop of Waiapu, the Rt Rev Andrew Hedge, said today the decision was the outcome of a church disciplinary process for a historic matter of behaviour.

The matter, unrelated to the Diocese of Waiapu, was deemed to be “a breach of the church canons, rather than illegal, and behaviour not expected of a priest in the Anglican Church,” Bishop Hedge said.

Dr Godfrey will not hold office or perform any priestly function for a length of time yet to be determined. 

Bishop Hedge concluded his statement by asking the diocese to pray for all concerned. 

Dr Godfrey, 56, was appointed Dean and Vicar of Waiapu Cathedral in 2013.

He ministered widely in Australia before going to Waiapu.