The decision of the head of the Anglican Church of the Archdiocese of Canterbury, Justin Welby, regarding resignation was announced on Tuesday after the publication of a report that showed that the Church of England had concealed a series of violations. Welby faced increasing pressure over several months to resign from his post after an independent investigation revealed that he should have officially informed the owners about the violations found by the auditor, related to the owners, in 2013.
A request for his resignation, signed by approximately fourteen thousand people, was submitted the day after the publication of the report, and high-profile spiritual leaders, including several archbishops, called for his resignation. Welby stated in a statement: "It is evident that I personally and institutionally bear responsibility for the long and painful period between 2013 and 2024."
He added: "I hope this will help to begin the process of correcting mistakes and assist the church in its reflection and actions for changing for the better."
