In a statement posted on social media, Welby said: 'Having sought the gracious permission of His Majesty The King, I have decided to resign as Archbishop of Canterbury.' He explained that the Makin Review had exposed a 'long-maintained conspiracy of silence' regarding John Smyth’s abuses, underscoring his belief that he had handled the situation appropriately in 2013, a belief he now recognizes as misguided.
Welby expressed profound sorrow as he announced his resignation: 'As I step down I do so in sorrow with all victims and survivors of abuse. The last few days have renewed my long felt and profound sense of shame at the historic safeguarding failures of the Church of England.' He acknowledged the drastic need for change within the church.
Reflecting on the implications of his inaction, Welby stated: 'It is very clear that I must take personal and institutional responsibility for the long and retraumatising period between 2013 and 2024.' His resignation was framed as a necessary step towards accountability and a commitment to creating a safer church.
Collection
[
|
...
]