Scottish Priest Alleges Bullying by Church After Accusing It of Being Run by 'Gay Mafia'

Father Matthew Despard, a Scottish priest, has claimed that he has been bullied by the Scottish Catholic Church after he made allegations in a self-published book that the church was run by a 'powerful gay mafia.'

Father Despard was suspended from his duties in 2013 following the publication of his book, "Priesthood in Crisis," where he made these claims. Despite a Vatican ruling in 2016 allowing him to return to work on the condition of a public apology, Father Despard has refused, stating that he is not sorry for 'telling the truth.'

Since the publication of his book, Father Despard has been banned from performing certain religious duties, such as saying Mass, but remains employed by the Church. He raised his case with the Roman Rota, an internal court for the Catholic Church, in 2016 but was told to withdraw the book, which he has done. However, Bishop Joseph Toal of Motherwell insists that Father Despard must apologize for any 'hurt and offense' caused by his book.

Father Despard, however, maintains that his claims have been vindicated by reports about the Scottish Catholic Church, including the resignation of Cardinal Keith O'Brien in 2013 over claims of sexual misconduct.

Despite requests to return to a parish, Father Despard feels ignored and believes the Church is waiting for him to die to end the stalemate. He has described the last ten years as 'incredibly hard' and feels systematically bullied and silenced by the church.

Father Despard still has support from many in his former parish, with one member describing him as 'fantastic' for the local community. However, the Diocese of Motherwell insists that Father Despard was asked to make a personal apology to those hurt by his book, which he has not done. The diocese maintains that any consideration for his return to public ministry remains a matter for the bishop.