Justin Welby Resigns as Archbishop of Canterbury

Justin Welby has officially resigned as the 105th Archbishop of Canterbury amid a scandal involving the Church of England's handling of abuse allegations. His resignation follows the Makin review, which revealed a failure to report John Smyth, a prolific abuser, to police in 2013, potentially preventing prosecution. Welby's last day was marked by private ceremonies at Lambeth Palace, where he participated in a Eucharist and laid down his ceremonial crozier, symbolizing the end of his 11-year tenure. He will no longer be able to officiate as a priest without special permission from a bishop, which may not be granted immediately. Criticism of Welby's leadership also included a rejection of his Christmas donation by The Children's Society, and he faced backlash for comments made in a House of Lords speech. The duties of the Archbishop will now be assumed by the Archbishop of York, Stephen Cottrell, and other senior bishops.