Archbishop of Canterbury Announces Resignation
The Most Rev. Justin Welby, the Archbishop of Canterbury, announced his resignation on Tuesday, following the release of a report that revealed his failure to initiate a thorough investigation into allegations of abuse involving over 100 boys and young men at Christian summer camps several decades ago. This report has intensified scrutiny on Mr. Welby, who serves as the spiritual leader of 85 million Anglicans globally.
In light of the report’s findings, pressure has mounted on Mr. Welby to step down, particularly after Bishop Helen-Ann Hartley of Newcastle publicly called for his resignation. In his statement on Tuesday, Mr. Welby acknowledged, “It is very clear that I must take personal and institutional responsibility for the long and retraumatizing period between 2013 and 2024.”
Mr. Welby, aged 68, revealed that he sought permission to resign from King Charles III, emphasizing, “I hope this decision makes clear how seriously the Church of England understands the need for change and our profound commitment to creating a safer church. As I step down I do so in sorrow with all victims and survivors of abuse.” His resignation marks the end of his tenure, which began in 2013 and was originally set to conclude in 2026.
This unexpected departure brings an early conclusion to the leadership of one of the country’s most prominent clerics, who took the helm of the Church of England amid significant tensions between liberal and traditionalist factions.
