The Anglican Catholic Church has announced the removal of Calvin Robinson, a priest serving in Grand Rapids, following his controversial gesture interpreted by many as a “pro-Nazi salute” during the National Pro-Life Summit in Washington, D.C. on January 25. The church issued a statement condemning the act and clarifying its position against Nazi ideology and anti-Semitism.
Robinson’s dismissal comes after the church revoked his license, stating that such actions undermine the values of Christian charity and trivialize the Holocaust’s horrors. The church emphasized that this behavior is not acceptable for someone in a priestly vocation and noted that Robinson had previously been warned against online trolling of any kind.
In response, Robinson denied any affiliation with Nazi ideology, labeling his gesture a joke meant to mock liberal criticism directed at business magnate Elon Musk. He expressed disappointment over the interpretation of his actions, claiming they were misunderstood within the context of an attempt at humor. Despite the controversy, he remained listed as the priest-in-charge at St. Paul’s Anglican Catholic Church in Grand Rapids, although the church indicated that his license had been formally revoked.
Robinson’s background includes a diverse career as a computer science teacher and video games journalist before pursuing theological studies and eventually being ordained in various branches of Anglicanism, including the Free Church of England and the Nordic Catholic Church.
The Anglican Catholic Church, established in 1978 to uphold traditional Anglican values, governs a number of congregations in Michigan, including St. Patrick’s and St. Bartholomew’s.
This incident raises critical discussions regarding the accountability of public figures and clergy, particularly in light of the sensitivity surrounding historical events like the Holocaust. The Anglican Catholic Church’s swift response underlines its commitment to uphold the tenets against hate and division, reflecting a broader societal expectation for leaders to maintain a responsible and respectful dialogue.
In summary, the Anglican Catholic Church has decisively acted against inappropriate conduct within its ranks, reinforcing its dedication to ethical leadership, even amid complex social discussions. This development serves as a reminder of the importance of context and intent in public expressions, especially for those in positions of trust and leadership.