bbc.com
Welby Resigns Amidst Church Abuse Scandal
Archbishop of Canterbury Justin Welby resigned after criticism for failing to address the sexual abuse committed by John Smyth, a Christian worker. A report highlighted the Church of England's cover-up of the abuse.
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United Kingdom
Human Rights ViolationsUkGender IssuesResignationScandalAbuseChurchCover-Up
Church Of EnglandWinchester College
Justin WelbyJohn SmythAndrew MorseRichard Coles
- Why did Archbishop Justin Welby resign?
- Archbishop of Canterbury Justin Welby resigned following criticism for his failure to effectively investigate the crimes of John Smyth, a Christian organization worker who physically and sexually abused boys.
- What were the reactions to Welby's resignation?
- Welby's resignation was met with mixed reactions, with some praising his eventual accountability while others criticized his initial inaction and the Church's overall handling of the situation. The scandal highlights systemic failures within the Church to protect vulnerable individuals.
- Who is John Smyth and what are the accusations against him?
- John Smyth, a lawyer and preacher, abused numerous boys over several years in the UK and later in Zimbabwe and South Africa. His abuse included beatings with wooden sticks, resulting in severe injuries to his victims.
- What role did Andrew Morse play in the events leading to Welby's resignation?
- Andrew Morse, a victim of Smyth's abuse, publicly called for Welby's resignation, stating that Welby could have taken action against Smyth as early as 2013 but failed to do so. Morse's testimony added significant pressure leading to Welby's resignation.
- What did the independent report reveal about the Church of England's handling of the situation?
- The report revealed that high-ranking officials within the Church of England were aware of Smyth's crimes but failed to act, effectively covering up the abuse. This inaction contributed significantly to the scandal and the calls for accountability.