The Resignation of the Archbishop of Canterbury- Rector’s Comments
I have been asked to provide a brief comment on the Archbishop’s resignation, and am very happy to do so. There are many issues involved, and I very happy to talk with anyone who wishes to discuss the issues further, or who has been upset by what has happened.
First, and foremost, our hearts must go out to all who have been the victims of abuse, especially abuse perpetrated within the context of the Church. The suffering caused by abuse is deeply shocking, and we must do all that we can to support the victims of abuse, and re-double our efforts to make sure that the abuse can never happen again.
Secondly, the Church is re-doubling its efforts to be exemplary in terms of safeguarding practice. It has transformed its practice over the last 20 years or so, and I would say that good safeguarding practice is at the heart of the current life of the Church. Our Diocese is doing well in this regard, and indeed its current safeguarding practice has been commended in a recent audit. Having said this, there is always room for improvement. Safeguarding in the Church is everyone’s responsibility, and I for one welcome any suggestions about how we might improve our practice yet further.
Thirdly, none of us is perfect, and we all make mistakes. I am certainly far from perfect, and I make many mistakes. Archbishop Justin has had the courage to admit that, in retrospect, his handling of the dreadful abuse perpetrated by John Smyth did not demonstrate current exemplary safeguarding practice. The fact that the matter had been referred to the police was an insufficient response. And so he has resigned, demonstrating both personal integrity and the official commitment of the Church of England to getting safeguarding completely right at all times and in all circumstances.
I should add that the Church of England will function perfectly well without an Archbishop of Canterbury during the next few months or so until a new Archbishop is appointed, as will the Anglican Communion. This is because a substantial part of the role and functions of the Archbishop of Canterbury are in fact already shared out and delegated.
Do remember Archbishop Justin and his family in your prayers. He is a good man who has had the courage to do the right thing. And do pray for all who have responsibility for finding his successor. Above all, pray for all victims of abuse, especially abuse within the Church. Let us continue to strive for a Church where all are safe, especially the most vulnerable.
Father Jason 21st November 2024