The Archbishop of Wales is facing pressure to step down following damning reports that exposed safeguarding concerns and inappropriate behavior at Bangor Cathedral in north Wales. The reports shed light on a culture where sexual boundaries were blurred, excessive alcohol consumption, and misconduct related to alcohol use and sexual behavior. In response, the Church in Wales acknowledged weaknesses in safeguarding, lack of transparency in management practices, and pledged to address the issues highlighted in the reports.
Despite calls for his resignation, the Most Reverend Andrew John offered a heartfelt apology to members of the cathedral community who may have been hurt or let down. The Church in Wales established an implementation group to address the concerns raised in the reports, although the full reports have not been made public. There is growing discontent over the perceived lack of detail in the church’s response to the reports, with demands for more transparency and honesty from Archbishop John.
Frustration is mounting among some members of the Church in Wales, with concerns about the future of the church and a call for greater openness and accountability. John Pockett, a long-time member of the church, criticized the Archbishop for the lack of clarity and transparency surrounding the issues at Bangor Cathedral. He emphasized the need for a full explanation and a clear plan of action to address the problems highlighted in the reports.
Members of parliament, including Ruth Jones, have also urged the Church in Wales to provide a comprehensive explanation to its members and the public regarding the findings of the reports. Professor Sir Malcolm Evans, who was part of the inquiry into child sexual abuse in England and Wales, expressed concerns about the lack of transparency in the summaries released by the Church in Wales. He emphasized the importance of transparency in safeguarding practices and called for greater accountability in addressing the issues at Bangor Cathedral
Read the full article from The BBC here: Read More
