7 hours ago
Archbishop of Wales retires with immediate effect amid 'blurred sexual boundaries' reports into 'cathedral failings'
The Archbishop of Wales has announced his sudden retirement following a critical report into the culture at one of his cathedrals.
In a statement issued this evening, the Most Reverend Andrew John said he would also be stepping down from his role as Bishop of Bangor on August 31.
It follows a safeguarding review at Bangor Cathedral which found complaints about 'a culture in which sexual boundaries seemed blurred'.
There were also claims of excessive drinking and 'inappropriate language' being used in front of younger members of the choir.
The full reports are yet to be published but summaries have been posted on the Church of Wales's website.
There is no suggestion that the archbishop has behaved inappropriately.
Announcing his retirement on Friday, 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.'
While no mention of the report was made in his retirement announcement, Mr John has previously faced calls to resign.
John Pockett, a member of the Church in Wales for almost 70 years, said according to the BBC: 'The leader of the Church in Wales is at the centre of all this.
'He is the Archbishop, he is the leader and it has happened at his Cathedral.
'It sullies the name of the Church in Wales across the country. [Archbishop of Wales] Andy John needs to come out and state plainly what has happened.'
Meanwhile, Ruth Jones, Labour MP for Newport West and Islwyn, said: 'We want openness and transparency in all our church settings and it's really, really important that the archbishop makes clear what has gone on.'
Two priests from within Bangor Cathedral have also called an independent inquiry following the report into the church's culture.
Mr John previously offered his 'most heartfelt apology to any members of the cathedral community who have been hurt or who feel I have let them down'.
Mr John assumed the role of Bishop of Bangor in 2008. He was elected Archbishop of Wales in December 2021 and was the 14th person to hold the title.
