In a significant development for the Church of England, Archbishop of Canterbury Justin Welby has announced his resignation. This decision follows the release of an independent review that revealed the Church’s failure to adequately address allegations of abuse by John Smyth, a barrister who led Christian summer camps.

The review, known as the Makin Report, highlighted that the Church had been aware of Smyth’s abusive actions since the 1980s but failed to take appropriate action. Welby, who became Archbishop in 2013, acknowledged his responsibility in the matter, stating, “I must take personal and institutional responsibility for the long and retraumatizing period between 2013 and 2024.”

Justin Welby’s resignation has sparked a wave of reactions from both within and outside the Church. Many have praised his decision as a necessary step towards accountability and healing for the victims. “This is a moment for the Church to reflect deeply on its past failures and commit to a future of transparency and justice,” said Bishop Helen-Ann Hartley.

The Archbishop’s tenure has been marked by his efforts to address various social and ethical issues, including same-sex marriage, immigration, and climate change. However, the recent revelations have overshadowed these contributions, leading to increased calls for his resignation.

As the Church of England begins the process of selecting a new Archbishop, the focus will be on restoring trust and ensuring that such failures are not repeated. The Crown Nominations Commission will oversee the selection process, with the aim of appointing a leader who can guide the Church through this challenging period.

Welby’s resignation marks the end of a significant chapter in the history of the Church of England. His departure serves as a reminder of the importance of accountability and the need for continuous efforts to protect the vulnerable and uphold the integrity of religious institutions.

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