British Archbishop of Canterbury Resigns Amid Abuse Scandal
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World
November 12, 2024 15:50
london - The leader of the Anglican Church, Archbishop of Canterbury Justin Welby, announces resignation following abuse scandal within the church.
The leader of the Anglican Church, Archbishop of Canterbury Justin Welby, has announced his resignation due to an abuse scandal within the church. Critics had called for his resignation following the recent publication of a damning report on the cover-up of abuse.
Welby revealed his departure through a letter shared, among other places, on X, stating that he had sought permission from British King Charles, the head of the Anglican Church, for his resignation. According to Welby, it is 'very clear' that he must be held accountable for the mistakes made.
The damning report from last week revolves around British lawyer John Smyth, who served as a volunteer for the church and is alleged to have abused up to 130 boys and young men. The abuse occurred over a period of about forty years. A police investigation into Smyth was ongoing when he passed away at the age of 75 in 2018. He was never convicted.