Head of the Anglican Church resigns
Justin Welby. Photo: lbc.co.uk
On 12 November 2024, Archbishop of Canterbury Justin Welby announced his resignation following an investigation into sexual abuse allegations involving John Smyth and acknowledged his responsibility for failing to take adequate measures to protect victims over more than a decade.
In his statement, the Archbishop said, "Having sought the gracious permission of His Majesty the King, I have decided to resign as Archbishop of Canterbury."
The Archbishop admitted his mistakes in handling the situation, stating that he had hoped for a fair investigation but that did not occur.
According to Justin Welby, the situation requires both his personal and institutional accountability: "It is very clear that I must take personal and institutional responsibility for the long and retraumatising period between 2013 and 2024."
The Archbishop expressed hope that his resignation would underscore the Anglican Church's serious commitment to change and its desire to create a safer church.
He also stated that he believes his "stepping aside is in the best interests of the Church of England ", which he "dearly loves".
As earlier reported, the Anglican Church will spend £1 billion to atone for its involvement in slavery.
Read also
SBU told Phanar many UOC bishops would join OCU in 2018, report says
According to a Phanar representative’s account, Ukrainian security services told the Constantinople delegation that many UOC representatives were prepared to attend the OCU’s “Unification Council.” In the end, only two did.
Catholic cardinal visits Ukrainian POWs during trip to Russia
During three days of consultations in Moscow, Cardinal Matteo Zuppi discussed prospects for ending the war in Ukraine.
Ukrainians help restore Serbian Orthodox church in Paris
Orthodox Ukrainians have become regular parishioners of St. Sava Church in Paris and have taken part in its restoration.
Bulgarian Church clergy and laity oppose Phanar head’s visit
More than 2,000 clergy and laity have called for the Ecumenical Patriarch’s visit to be canceled, citing disagreement with his actions and concerns that the visit could legitimize schism.
Unknown intruders break down doors at two UOC churches in Sloviansk
Archbishop Paisiy said OCU activists are suspected of breaking into the churches in Sloviansk, and police have launched an investigation.
Sviatohirsk Lavra prays for murdered monk on 40th day after death
The brethren of the Sviatohirsk Lavra held a memorial service for murdered Monk Varsonofiy, calling on the faithful to pray for the newly departed monk.