A charity focused on children has declined a Christmas contribution from the departing Archbishop of Canterbury, Justin Welby.
The Children’s Society stated that it had “meticulously chosen” not to accept the donation, noting that such an action would not align with its commitment to aiding victims of child sexual abuse.
Mr. Welby, who is set to resign in early January due to shortcomings in addressing a Church of England abuse scandal, extended the offer through an annual electronic greeting for the holiday season.
A representative for Mr. Welby indicated that the archbishop “acknowledges the decision made.”
Mark Russell, the charity’s CEO, remarked: “Following thoughtful deliberation, we have respectfully chosen not to accept the contribution from the outgoing Archbishop of Canterbury.
“The Children’s Society is profoundly dedicated to assisting abuse survivors, and our teams work with victims of child sexual abuse, which signifies that accepting this contribution would not be in keeping with the principles and values that form the foundation of our work.”
Mr. Welby announced his resignation last month amid the findings of the Makin Review regarding the management of claims involving serial abuser John Smyth.
Over a period of five decades in three nations, impacting as many as 130 boys and young men in the UK and Africa, Smyth reportedly inflicted traumatic physical, sexual, psychological, and spiritual harm on his victims, leaving lasting scars on their lives.
The report revealed that Smyth, who passed away in 2018, might have faced legal consequences had Mr. Welby reported him to law enforcement in 2013.
Although Mr. Welby initially resisted resignation, he ultimately confirmed he would step down after days of mounting pressure following the release of the independent review.
Discover more:
What prompted Justin Welby’s resignation?
Who exactly was John Smyth?
A spokesperson for the archbishop expressed: “Lambeth Palace honors the decision reached by The Children’s Society.
“The Archbishop of Canterbury embraces the principles and values upheld by The Children’s Society and is determined to support survivors of abuse and victims of child sexual abuse.
“He commends The Children’s Society for their relentless efforts in this arena.”
