Archbishop Justin Welby Resigns Amid Child Abuse Scandal
Archbishop of Canterbury, Justin Welby, has announced his resignation following revelations that he failed to inform police about child sexual abuse committed by volunteer John Smyth. An independent review found Welby could have reported Smyth’s abuses, which spanned five decades and affected approximately 150 victims. With mounting pressure for his resignation, including over 1,500 signatures from General Synod members, Welby’s departure marks a significant shift within the Church of England, as he faces accusations of losing the trust of clergy and failing to act in the best interests of victims.