Jump to content
Independent

Thank you for registering

Please refresh the page or navigate to another page on the site to be automatically logged inPlease refresh your browser to be logged in

Independent Bulletin homepage

Social Partner

We are 8 logo (opens in a new tab)We are 8 logoWe are 8 logo
  1. All
  2. News
  3. Sport
  4. Culture
  5. Lifestyle

Justin Welby says he forgives Church of England abuser John Smyth

Former archbishop of Canterbury Justin Welby has spoken to the BBC about his resignation (Jeff Overs/BBC/PA)
Former archbishop of Canterbury Justin Welby has spoken to the BBC about his resignation (Jeff Overs/BBC/PA) (PA Media)
  • Former Archbishop of Canterbury Justin Welby stated he would forgive the deceased Church Of England abuser John Smyth, if he were alive.
  • Welby expressed "deep personal failure" regarding the handling of allegations against Smyth, considered one of the Church's most prolific abusers.
  • The Makin report found Welby's follow-up on reports about Smyth inadequate, potentially hindering justice.
  • Welby apologized to Smyth's victims, emphasizing their choice in forgiveness and the Church's responsibility to support their healing.
  • He explained his delayed resignation, attributing it to needing time to process the report's findings and the survivors' suffering.
In full

Thank you for registering

Please refresh the page or navigate to another page on the site to be automatically logged inPlease refresh your browser to be logged in