2 days ago
Archbishop of Wales retires after critical reports on cathedral behaviour
The Archbishop of Wales has announced his retirement after a critical report raised complaints about alcohol use and sexual behaviour at his diocese.
Andrew John confirmed he would be stepping down with immediate effect in a statement issued on Friday evening.
He will also retire as Bishop of Bangor on August 31.
The move follows a safeguarding review at Bangor Cathedral, which identified 'a culture in which sexual boundaries seemed blurred' and 'promiscuity was acceptable'.
There is no suggestion the archbishop behaved inappropriately.
Mr John commissioned two reports into the North Wales cathedral in October last year.
A summary of a report shared on the Church in Wales' website said there were also reports of 'inappropriate language, rude jokes and innuendoes in the choir that left some feeling unsafe and marginalised'.
Inappropriate language was also used in front of younger members of the choir and at times caused 'humiliation to some', the report's compilers were told.
Other issues raised included the presence of hurtful gossip, a poor safeguarding approach and weak financial controls.
Announcing his retirement, Mr John said: 'It has been an enormous joy to serve in the Church in Wales for over 35 years.
'I would very much like to thank the clergy and congregations of this wonderful diocese before I retire.'
After the publication of a summary into the reports earlier this year, the archbishop said: 'I acknowledge that these findings are hard to hear – but they must be faced if we are to move forward with integrity.'
'I have begun reflecting on what I must learn from this process – not only as a leader, but as a fellow pilgrim,' he added.
'While this has been a sobering time, it also offers us opportunity for change. It will mean hard work, but it can also bring healing, and we do not do this alone.'
Mr John became Bishop of Bangor in 2008 and was elected Archbishop of Wales in December 2021.
