Sion Rhys Evans: Rise, Controversy, and Lessons for the Church in Wales
Introduction
The name Sion Rhys Evans has become one of the most talked-about in the Church in Wales in recent years. Once considered a rising star within the Church, his story is marked by rapid advancement, financial controversy, and serious questions about governance and accountability. From serving as Diocesan Secretary of Bangor to being ordained as a priest and later appointed Sub-Dean of St Deiniol’s Cathedral, Evans’ career reflects both ambition and controversy in equal measure.
This article provides a comprehensive overview of his background, the roles he held, the controversies that surrounded him, and the lessons religious institutions can learn from his journey.
Early Career and Rise to Prominence
Administrative Beginnings
Unlike many clerics who begin their vocation with ordination, Sion Rhys Evans first established himself in an administrative role. In 2013, he was appointed Diocesan Secretary of Bangor, a position that placed him at the heart of diocesan management and financial oversight. This role carried significant responsibility, giving him control over budgets, property, and the day-to-day running of the diocese.
Transition to Priesthood
In 2020, Evans was ordained as a priest within the Church in Wales. This marked a pivotal moment in his career, blending administrative authority with spiritual leadership. By 2021, he was elevated to the role of Sub-Dean of St Deiniol’s Cathedral in Bangor, while continuing as Diocesan Secretary.
Dual Roles and Growing Influence
Holding both senior posts simultaneously gave Evans unusual power within the diocese. The Sub-Dean’s role carries pastoral and liturgical responsibilities, while the Diocesan Secretary oversees administration and finance. The combination of both raised eyebrows, with some suggesting that the balance of power and accountability was skewed.
Controversies and Allegations
Financial Irregularities
The most persistent controversy surrounding Sion Rhys Evans relates to financial management. Questions emerged over whether cathedral and diocesan funds were properly separated. Expenditure on cathedral furnishings, including altar furniture and choir stalls, was criticised for bypassing normal authorisation procedures.
Concerns also grew about expenses linked to overseas trips, such as visits to Dublin and Rome. Reports suggested that credit cards belonging to the diocese or cathedral had been used for these purposes, prompting debate over transparency and legitimacy.
Conflict of Interest
One of the central criticisms against Evans was the issue of dual responsibility. As both Diocesan Secretary and Sub-Dean, he was effectively accountable to himself in some areas. Critics argued that this blurred boundaries of governance and made it difficult for independent oversight to function.
Gardening Leave and Departure
By early 2024, the controversies had reached a point where Sion Rhys Evans was placed on gardening leave. This step, often used in corporate and institutional settings, indicated that serious concerns were under review. By December of that year, his departure from his posts at Bangor was formally confirmed.
New Appointment at Westminster College
Bursar and General Manager Role
Following his departure from Bangor, Evans secured a role at Westminster College, Cambridge, as Bursar and General Manager. The position was reported to come with a salary in the region of £65,000 to £70,000, underscoring his continued appeal as an administrator despite his previous controversies.
Questions About Recruitment
The appointment immediately attracted attention. Critics questioned whether the college had been fully informed about the financial irregularities reported in Wales, and whether proper due diligence had been conducted.
Unsuccessful Tenure
By mid-2025, Evans’ time at Westminster came to an end. Reports suggested that his probationary period had not been completed successfully and his contract was not extended. This marked yet another turning point in a career marked by promise, ambition, and turbulence.
Wider Implications for the Church in Wales
Governance Under Scrutiny
The case of Sion Rhys Evans has highlighted serious weaknesses in the governance of the Church in Wales. The decision to allow one individual to hold two such powerful positions simultaneously raised systemic questions. Institutions that should have provided checks and balances appeared instead to have concentrated authority in one person.
Financial Accountability
The concerns over spending have drawn attention to how diocesan and cathedral funds are managed. The lack of clear separation and transparency has created reputational damage for the Church. Religious institutions, like all charities, are expected to uphold the highest standards of accountability.
Safeguarding and Institutional Trust
Alongside financial issues, safeguarding concerns within the Diocese of Bangor have further eroded trust. Reports emerged of inappropriate behaviour and a culture where individuals felt unsafe or unable to speak out. This has contributed to calls for an independent inquiry into the handling of both financial and safeguarding matters.
Reactions and Calls for Inquiry
Voices from Within the Church
Clergy and laity alike have voiced concerns about how Evans’ case was handled. Many have argued that an independent investigation is essential to restore confidence in the leadership and governance of the Church in Wales.
Charity Commission Involvement
The matter has also attracted the attention of the Charity Commission, which oversees the conduct of charities in the United Kingdom. The Commission has received reports about financial irregularities and safeguarding concerns, raising the possibility of formal investigations.
Lessons to Be Learned
Importance of Transparency
The saga of Sion Rhys Evans demonstrates the critical importance of transparent governance. When individuals hold overlapping roles without proper checks, the risk of mismanagement increases significantly.
The Role of Oversight
Religious institutions must remember that their authority is not only spiritual but also administrative. Clear oversight structures and separation of responsibilities are essential to maintain integrity and public trust.
Protecting Reputations
The controversies surrounding Evans have damaged both the reputation of the Bangor Diocese and the wider Church in Wales. For organisations whose authority relies heavily on public confidence, reputational harm can have long-lasting effects.
Conclusion
The career of Sion Rhys Evans is a striking case study in both opportunity and controversy within the Church in Wales. His rapid rise, dual roles, and eventual fall from grace highlight the dangers of blurred governance structures and inadequate financial accountability. While Evans himself has moved on from his high-profile positions, the questions raised by his tenure remain pressing for the institutions involved.
The Church in Wales now faces the difficult but necessary task of rebuilding trust, strengthening oversight, and demonstrating that it has learned from past mistakes. Only by embracing transparency, accountability, and a renewed commitment to safeguarding can it begin to restore confidence among its clergy, congregations, and the wider public.
