Justin Welby Resigns as Archbishop of Canterbury

Justin Welby officially stepped down as Archbishop of Canterbury on his 69th birthday, following an 11-year tenure marred by controversies related to the Church of England's handling of abuse allegations. His resignation was prompted by a report revealing his failure to report the serial abuser John Smyth, which resulted in significant criticism of Welby and the Church's accountability practices. On his final day, he attended services at Lambeth Palace, culminating in the ceremonial laying down of his bishop's crozier, symbolizing the end of his leadership. His departure highlights ongoing issues within the Church regarding safeguarding and accountability, as Welby faced backlash for both his handling of abuse cases and comments made in public forums. Stephen Cottrell, the Archbishop of York, will assume many of Welby's responsibilities until a permanent successor is appointed. The transition occurs amid heightened scrutiny of the Church's leadership and its past failures in addressing abuse.