Displaying items by tag: John Smyth

The Church of England has initiated disciplinary proceedings against ten clergy members following the release of the Makin Review, which exposed the brutal abuse of over 120 boys by John Smyth at Christian youth camps from the late 1970s onwards. Among those facing action is former Archbishop of Canterbury George Carey, accused of failing to act on reports of abuse in 1983. Rev Andrew Cornes, who was set to help choose the next Archbishop of Canterbury, has also been suspended. Meanwhile, Justin Welby, who resigned as Archbishop earlier this year over his 'institutional responsibility', will not face action due to insufficient evidence. Survivors of Smyth’s abuse have expressed relief that justice is finally being done, though some are disappointed that others involved in the cover-up have not been named. Those found guilty could face permanent prohibition from church ministry.

Survivors of abuse associated with John Smyth, a prolific child abuser linked to the Church of England, are urging further resignations following Justin Welby’s decision on 13 November to step down. A review revealed Welby 'could and should have’ reported Smyth’s abuse in 2013. Many survivors maintain that his resignation alone is insufficient, and insist that all individuals involved in the cover-up be held accountable. An independent report detailed the Church’s historical inaction, describing it as a 'missed opportunity' to bring Smyth to justice before his death in 2018. Bishop Rachel Treweek emphasised the need for further accountability, while Bishop Martin Gorick expressed discomfort with the situation. See also