On November 12, 2024, Archbishop of Canterbury Justin Welby announced his resignation, citing a need to accept “personal and institutional responsibility” following the release of the Makin Report.

This report exposed substantial failings by the Church of England in addressing the abuse committed by John Smyth, a prominent Christian figure whose predatory behavior targeted 130 boys and young men over several decades. Welby’s decision to step down is both a personal acknowledgment of the Church’s role in allowing abuse to persist and a response to increasing public and institutional pressure for accountability and reform.

The Makin Report:

The Makin Report, led by safeguarding specialist Keith Makin, details a harrowing history of sexual abuse by Smyth, who was involved with church-affiliated organizations and held a position of trust within religious circles. His abuses, which reportedly spanned the 1970s and 1980s, included severe physical abuse of boys, with evidence indicating that church officials and other leaders were aware of Smyth’s actions but failed to act decisively to protect the victims.

According to the report, Archbishop Welby and other church leaders were first informed about Smyth’s abuses in 2013. Despite assurances that the matter had been reported to the police, it later emerged that the appointment had not been adequately followed up, leaving a void in the accountability process. This disclosure led to further accusations of a “conspiracy of silence” that allowed Smyth’s abuses to remain hidden and prolonged the suffering of victims. The report criticized the Ely diocese’s handling of the case, revealing that the diocese’s safeguarding advisor had only a quick discussion with law enforcement, which did not constitute a formal report.​

Welby’s Resignation:

In his resignation statement, Archbishop Welby expressed intense sorrow and shame, acknowledging the Church’s failings in providing a safe environment. He admitted that while he had endeavored to implement safeguarding reforms during his tenure, the Church’s response remained inadequate in several cases. “I believe that stepping aside is in the best interests of the Church of England, which I dearly love,” Welby stated, highlighting that his resignation was intended to send a clear message about the Church’s commitment to change and survivor support​.

Welby’s resignation follows increasing demands for accountability from within and outside the Church of England. Calls for his resignation intensified after the report’s release, with over 13,000 people signing a petition urging him to step down. His decision to resign, though painful, has been welcomed by several bishops and church members who view it as a critical moment for the Church to demonstrate transparency and commitment to safeguarding measures.

Welby’s departure comes amid broader challenges within the Church of England, where controversies surrounding historical abuses and internal divisions have strained public trust. Welby’s resignation could serve as a turning point for the institution, spurring deeper reforms in how it addresses safeguarding failures. The Church has pledged to undertake a full risk assessment and implement further measures to prevent future abuses.