Today in Focus The fall of Justin Welby
Nov 14, 2024
Harriet Sherwood, a Guardian journalist with extensive experience covering the Church of England, delves into the recent resignation of Archbishop Justin Welby amid a major child abuse scandal. They discuss the disturbing history of John Smythe and the church’s failure to protect victims. Sherwood highlights the impact of a revealing documentary that shed light on the abuse and raises critical questions about current safeguarding measures. The conversation emphasizes the ongoing trauma faced by survivors and the urgent need for reform within the Church.
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Smythe's Abuse
- John Smythe, a barrister and proponent of "muscular Christianity," abused boys and young men for decades.
- He used his position of authority within Christian holiday camps and his family home to gain trust and commit abuse.
Institutional Cover-Up
- Institutions like Winchester College prioritized their reputation over the safety of abused boys.
- They covered up Smythe's abuse instead of reporting it to the authorities.
Abuse Under Welby's Leadership
- Abuse within the Church of England became a significant issue under Welby's leadership.
- Survivors began disclosing historic abuse and cover-ups, highlighting a pattern of prioritizing the Church's reputation.