Former Church of England leader says scale of abuse scandal was 'overwhelming'

Justin Welby, the former leader of Anglicans worldwide, admitted his failures. He did not ensure proper investigations into abuse allegations in the Church of England. He described the scale of the issue as "overwhelming."

Welby stepped down as Archbishop of Canterbury in November 2024. Calls for his resignation grew after a report revealed his inaction against a serial abuser.

The report detailed John Smyth's abuse of over 100 boys and young men. Smyth was a British lawyer who volunteered at Christian summer camps. His abuse lasted for 40 years and was described as "brutal and horrific."

In an interview with the BBC, Welby said more cases kept emerging daily. Many had not been dealt with adequately in the past. He acknowledged knowing Smyth but felt overwhelmed by the situation.

Welby stated, "I got it wrong." He added that there are no excuses for his actions as Archbishop.

A spokesperson for the Church of England expressed deep sorrow for Smyth's victims. They assured continued support for those affected by abuse.

The spokesperson emphasized that any new concerns would be handled carefully and compassionately by safeguarding professionals.

Smyth moved to Africa in 1984 but continued abusing until near his death in 2018. The report revealed that church leaders were aware of sexual abuse claims since 2013. Welby learned about these accusations shortly after becoming Archbishop that same year.