Thu Nov 14 13:35:31 UTC 2024: ## Archbishop of Canterbury Resigns Amid Child Abuse Scandal

**London, UK** – The Archbishop of Canterbury, Justin Welby, has resigned following a damning report into the prolific child abuser John Smyth. The report, released last week, revealed a long-standing cover-up within the Church of England about Smyth’s abuse.

Welby, who has been under increasing pressure to step down, admitted in his resignation statement that he should have taken more action to ensure the allegations against Smyth were properly investigated. He was informed in 2013 that police had been notified about Smyth’s abuse but wrongly assumed a “resolution would follow.” The report, however, found that the police referral was never made.

Welby stated that he must take personal and institutional responsibility for the “long and retraumatizing period” between 2013 and 2024 when he failed to adequately pursue the matter.

The Archbishop of York, Stephen Cottrell, praised Welby for his decision, stating that the Church made “real progress in safeguarding” under his leadership. However, he acknowledged that there is “much further to go.”

The resignation comes after numerous calls for Welby to step down from victims of Smyth’s abuse and church leaders alike. Andrew Morse, a victim who was abused by Smyth for four years, told the BBC that Welby’s admission of inaction amounted to a cover-up.

The Makin report, which detailed Smyth’s abuse, found that Welby and Smyth were acquainted at multiple Christian holiday camps between 1975 and 1979. While Welby claims to have been unaware of the abuse allegations until 2013, he now acknowledges that he should have done more to ensure a thorough investigation.

The Church of England is now facing a period of significant reflection and reform. The process for choosing Welby’s successor is expected to take at least six months, with a nationwide consultation seeking input from both members and non-members of the Church.

The resignation marks a pivotal moment for the Church, highlighting the urgent need for systemic change to address safeguarding issues and ensure the protection of vulnerable individuals.

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