Vicar leaves charity role following affair (From Watford Observer)

Leader of the Father’s House Trust, Reverend Mark Stibbe, stands down following affair

4:56pm Monday 24th September 2012 in News By Amie Mulderrig, Features Writer

A vicar, who founded a Watford charity aimed at eliminating fatherlessness across the globe, has stepped down from his position after having an affair.

The Reverend Mark Stibbe ran St Andrew’s Church in Chorleywood for 12 years, before setting up the Father’s House Trust (FHT) in 2008.

The Christian charity, which consists of a dedicated team of paid and volunteers, is based in Clarendon Road and aims to bring an end to fatherlessness in the UK and overseas, through various projects.

But the organisation has announced that Mr Stibbe had stepped down as Leader of the Father’s House Trust, by "mutual agreement", following an affair.

Steve Cardell, FHT chairman, said: "Mark has made a decision to enter into an inappropriate relationship with someone other than his wife. "Mark recognised that this made his position at FHT untenable, and his actions are ones that the leadership could never condone. "We recognise and appreciate the significant work that Mark has undertaken on behalf of the trust over a number of years, and honour his dedication and commitment in doing so.

"This is a disappointing time for the FHT team, and we ask you to join with us in praying for all of the Stibbe family during this extremely difficult period.

According to the organisation, Mrs Stibbe will continue to act as a trustee of FHT, overseeing the charity’s work and projects.