A VICAR has resigned in protest over what he claims is the promotion of politically correct ideology on same sex marriage and transgender issues being taught in schools.

The Rev John Parker, who is vicar in the Fordham and Eight Ash Green parish, will leave his role in August.

It comes amid a row over children being given lessons on transgender issues at Church of England schools.

Mr Parker says he can no longer support the Diocese of Chelmsford in what he fears is children being “sacrificed on the altar of trans ideology”.

In his resignation letter the Rev Parker said he could no longer back the diocese on its position on same sex marriage and introduction of transgender baptisms.

He said it was “no longer possible” for him to continue his role and said it was the hardest decision he had made.

Mr Parker has raised concerns about there being no policies in place to help schools, parents or pupils understand when a child transitions.

He said often there are no protocols for how the situation will be announced or handled.

He said: “Many parents may well hold the view that sex and gender is fixed at birth and may wish to educate their children in line with those beliefs.

“Instead trans ideology was forced on their children as fact and without their knowledge.”

In his resignation letter, Mr Parker said he had considered other points of view on the issues.

He added: “Having given time through teaching, leadership and discussion for us to come to one mind on the subject, this has not been the case.

“Of course I have considered other points of view and read counter arguments, but I have not found them biblically persuasive.

“The potential for division and ongoing conflict this has brought about, has meant that it seems wise for me to leave.”

Andrea Williams, of Christian Legal Centre, said: “Parents have a right to know if and when this ideological movement is in their schools and being taught as fact.

“The Church of England has one million children in its care. This is a serious God-given duty which the church is failing at.”

The Rev Tim Elbourne, director of education for the Diocese of Chelmsford, said: “Church of England schools are inclusive environments which nurture pupils to respect diversity of all kinds.

“Our schools must comply with the legal requirements of the Equalities Act 2010. Additionally, the Church of England, through its policy Valuing All God’s Children, gives guidance for Church of England schools.”