A Statement in response to the resignation of the Archbishop of Canterbury

In light of the resignation of the Archbishop of Canterbury following the Makin Review into abuses by the late John Smyth QC, the Methodist Church in Britain joins others in praying for all those affected by abuse. Survivors have been courageous in speaking of their experience and in calling the Churches to account and we hope humbly to continue to learn from them.

We are covenant partners with the Church of England, an anniversary we marked last week. Dr Welby has done much to strengthen the partnership between our denominations and we pray for the continuation of this work and for those who will discern who should be the next Archbishop of Canterbury. We are committed to developing our shared understanding and desire for good safeguarding practice at every level of our churches.

A prayer

Loving God, we ask your forgiveness for the times when in your Church we have failed to protect vulnerable people.
We pray for your healing for those who have been hurt and for those who live with guilt and regret.
We ask for your wisdom and direction as we seek to keep safe all your children, in the name of Christ. Amen.