Church of England head Justin Welby under pressure to resign amid abuse scandal
Associated PressNOV 7 2024
Archbishop Justin Welby, who knew Smyth from Christian summer camps in the 1970s, was informed of abuse allegations in 2013 but failed to ensure they were thoroughly investigated, representing a missed opportunity to bring Smyth to justice.
The Makin Review found that Church officials knew about the abuse at the highest level since 1982 and participated in an active cover-up, allowing Smyth to continue abusing victims in Zimbabwe and South Africa until his death in 2018.
Over 7,000 people have signed a petition calling for Welby's resignation, including three members of the Church's General Synod who accused him of allowing abuse to continue between 2013 and 2018.
While acknowledging past failures, the Church has apologized profoundly and is working to build a safer institution. Welby had no awareness of the abuse's severity before 2013, and his continued leadership is essential for implementing necessary reforms and safeguarding improvements.