He was appointed Dean of St Albans in 2004 and two years later he and his partner Rev Grant Holmes entered into a civil partnership.
Dr John was shortlisted last year for Exeter but the vote went narrowly against him, even though his performance at interview was outstanding. His name was also withdrawn previously from the Southwark diocesan appointment process because of opposition from the conservative wing.
The shortlisting of Dr John once again is an indication that the Church is taking seriously its pledge to “listen” to the gay community. Last year the Church dropped its prohibition on gay clergy in civil partnerships becoming bishops, which effectively removed the bar against the elevation of clergy such as Dr John, who are openly gay but live within the guidelines stipulated by the Church, which demands celibacy and, controversially, forbids its gay clergy from marrying their partners.
Last time they knocked on the door, this time they are hoping to kick the !*@#$ in (paraphrase from the late Bum Phillips).
Why do I suddenly feel like King Canute? The tide is coming in, and it appears we are helpless. Why?