Archbishop of Canterbury Justin Welby announced his resignation on Tuesday, expressing “sorrow” over his decision. He stepped down after admitting he hadn’t ensured a thorough investigation into abuse claims involving a volunteer at Christian summer camps decades ago.
As the spiritual leader of 85 million Anglicans globally, Welby faced pressure to resign following a report that criticized him for inadequate action against what has been described as possibly the Church of England’s most prolific abuser.
In his statement, Welby said, “With the gracious permission of His Majesty The King, I have decided to resign as Archbishop of Canterbury.”