The Rector of Naremburn/Cammeray, Canon Rick Smith, is recovering after being bashed by a group of drunken youths at the weekend.

The incident happened at the front of the church building at 9.30 pm on Saturday night, after several youths had held up a pizza delivery boy and stolen pizzas.
 
Canon Smith approached the group and was set upon by the youths, being kicked and punched. Two of his sons witnessed the attack, one tried to defend his father while the other rang police.

"The Police were quick to respond. I suspect their sirens spared me more harm" Canon Smith said in a letter to the congregation. "Even though I tried to fight them off, I ended up being taken by ambulance to Royal North Shore Hospital after being punched then beaten and kicked while on the ground."
 
Canon Smith suffered multiple injuries but says despite cuts and bruising, diagnostic tests have revealed there were no any breaks or serious internal injury.

"The Police, Ambulance and treatment at hospital was outstanding and I cannot praise them more highly" he said. "We are very thankful for your concern, support and prayers."

The Standing Committee of the Diocese, which met on Monday night, was told of the attack and prayed for Canon Smith, and his attackers.

Photo: Canon Smith speaking to Channel Nine news