US Episcopalian bishops have put off a planned vote to confirm the appointment of the church's first openly gay bishop.
It is understood that allegations of sexual misconduct have been made against the New Hampshire bishop-elect,.
Canon Gene Robinson had won approval from the church's lower legislative body and was up for a debate and vote by Episcopal bishops when the matter was postponed and a news conference was scheduled.
Church conservatives have warned that Canon Robinson's ordination could lead to a schism in the 77 million strong Anglican community.
Yesterday the church's House of Deputies, composed of clergy and lay people, voted by two-to-one to confirm his appointment.
