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Anglican Church Abuse Scandal
Archbishop of Canterbury Justin Welby faces calls for resignation amidst a scandal involving the alleged cover-up of child abuse by John Smyth.
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Human Rights ViolationsAccountabilityChild AbuseResignationCover-UpReligious Scandal
Church Of EnglandIrwene TrustWinchester College
Justin WelbyJohn SmythAndrew WatsonGiles Fraser
- What is the broader impact of this scandal?
- The scandal has impacted the Anglican Church's reputation and led to renewed calls for greater transparency and accountability in handling cases of child abuse within religious institutions.
- What happened to John Smyth after the alleged abuses?
- Smyth was never reported to the police and is suspected of being aided in his "exile" to Zimbabwe and later South Africa, where he died in 2018. Welby denies trying to cover up the scandal.
- What is the main accusation against Archbishop Justin Welby?
- The scandal involves accusations that Archbishop Justin Welby and other high-ranking members of the Church of England were aware of and covered up the abuse of at least 130 children by John Smyth, a lawyer who ran Christian camps.
- Why are some people calling for Archbishop Welby's resignation?
- Many, including Vicar Giles Fraser, believe that Archbishop Welby has lost the trust of the clergy and should resign. Calls for his resignation cite a culture of deference that allowed the abuse to be concealed.
- What did the Church of England's internal report conclude about John Smyth?
- The Church of England's internal report concluded that Smyth was a "prolific, terrible and brutal abuser." Victims, including Bishop Andrew Watson, reported violent and shocking punishments inflicted by Smyth.