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Smyth Abuse Scandal: Son-in-Law Speaks Out, Defends Welby
John Smyth's son-in-law speaks out about the horrific abuse committed by his father-in-law, while defending the former Archbishop of Canterbury, Justin Welby, who resigned amidst the scandal.
English
United Kingdom
JusticeHuman Rights ViolationsUkChild AbuseResignationScandalChurch
Church Of England
John SmythJustin WelbyAndy HendersonAnne SmythNicola Smyth
- Who is John Smyth and what crimes did he commit?
- John Smyth, a prolific child abuser, sexually, physically, and psychologically abused numerous boys over five decades. His son-in-law, Andy Henderson, expressed horror at Smyth's crimes but believes Justin Welby, former Archbishop of Canterbury, was unfairly scapegoated for the scandal.
- What is the extent of the abuse perpetrated by John Smyth?
- The abuse perpetrated by John Smyth involved at least 130 boys in the UK and South Africa. The scandal led to the resignation of Justin Welby, former Archbishop of Canterbury, due to the Church's failures in handling the allegations and bringing Smyth to justice.
- What is the impact of the scandal on the Church of England?
- The Church of England is facing intense pressure following Welby's resignation. Other members of the church are under pressure to reveal what they knew about the allegations against John Smyth.
- How did John Smyth's son-in-law's children react to the revelations about their grandfather?
- Henderson's three children expressed guilt and shame over their association with their grandfather. However, he reassured them that their guilt stems from association, not their actions.
- What is Andy Henderson's relationship to John Smyth, and what is his reaction to the revelations?
- Andy Henderson, married to Smyth's daughter, only learned of the abuse after his wife's death. He states that the family is horrified and does not discuss it. He feels that Justin Welby was made a scapegoat and wrongly forced to resign.