WCC news: WCC commends Archbishop of Canterbury’s difficult decision to resign

World Council of Churches general secretary Rev. Prof. Dr Jerry Pillay, upon hearing about the resignation of Archbishop of Canterbury Justin Welby, in light of the long-maintained conspiracy of silence about the abuses of children by John Smyth, recognized that the decision to resign is difficult for him, his family, the Church of England and the Anglican Communion.  Photo: Albin Hillert/WCC 13 November 2024 “We commend his wisdom to take personal and institutional responsibility for the silence and inability to address the heinous abuses committed on children,” said Pillay. “Our hearts and thoughts go out to the victims and families of those abused.” Pillay extended prayers that the emotional scars and wounds you have suffered over the years may find God's healing, peace and justice.  “Our prayers are also with the Church of England as you go through this difficult time and transition in leadership,” he said. “May God grant you wisdom in the way forward as you address your internal challenges and how you may reach out and minister to victims and their loved ones. May the God of life, hope, love and truth guide us in all our paths.” Read the full statement Thursdays in Black - A global movement for a world without rape and violence See more

The World Council of Churches promotes Christian unity in faith, witness and service for a just and peaceful world. An ecumenical fellowship of churches founded in 1948, today the WCC brings together 352 Protestant, Orthodox, Anglican and other churches representing more than 580 million Christians in over 120 countries, and works cooperatively with the Roman Catholic Church. The WCC general secretary is Rev. Prof. Dr Jerry Pillay from the Uniting Presbyterian Church in Southern Africa. Media contact: +41 79 507 6363; www.oikoumene.org/press Our visiting address is: World Council of Churches Chemin du Pommier 42 Kyoto Building Le Grand-Saconnex CH-1218 Switzerland