Head of the Anglican Church resigns

Justin Welby. Photo: lbc.co.uk

On 12 November 2024, Archbishop of Canterbury Justin Welby announced his resignation following an investigation into sexual abuse allegations involving John Smyth and acknowledged his responsibility for failing to take adequate measures to protect victims over more than a decade.

In his statement, the Archbishop said, "Having sought the gracious permission of His Majesty the King, I have decided to resign as Archbishop of Canterbury."

The Archbishop admitted his mistakes in handling the situation, stating that he had hoped for a fair investigation but that did not occur.

According to Justin Welby, the situation requires both his personal and institutional accountability: "It is very clear that I must take personal and institutional responsibility for the long and retraumatising period between 2013 and 2024."

The Archbishop expressed hope that his resignation would underscore the Anglican Church's serious commitment to change and its desire to create a safer church.

He also stated that he believes his "stepping aside is in the best interests of the Church of England ", which he "dearly loves".

As earlier reported, the Anglican Church will spend £1 billion to atone for its involvement in slavery.

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