Resignation of the
Archbishop of Canterbury
Justin Welby
The Most Reverend Kay Goldsworthy AO DD
The news of the resignation of the Archbishop of Canterbury Justin Welby came yesterday following the release of an independent report which highlighted safeguarding failures in both the actions of the Archbishop and in the safeguarding processes of the Church of England.
In Australia we know only too well the impact on survivors of abuse at the hands of clergy and lay people and the harm caused to vulnerable people as a result.
I know many of you, like me, feel a deep sadness for everyone involved. Archbishop Justin’s leadership in the Anglican Communion has been one of grace and hope for many Anglican Churches around the world, helping to hold the Churches of the Communion in times of conflict and polarisation.
Please pray for all victims and survivors of abuse, for the Church of England, the Anglican Communion, and Archbishop Justin, Caroline and their family.
God of compassion,
pour out your grace and healing
for victims and survivors of abuse in the church,
all around the world,
in the Church of England,
and in our own communities.
Give our leaders and members the courage and wisdom
to make the changes that are needed,
so that your children may never again suffer such harm,
either by our actions, or by our failure to act.
Show us how to do our best for them
today and every day,
through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
Archbishop Justin’s ’s statement can be found here:
Statement from the Archbishop of Canterbury