The Church of England has granted former Archbishop of Canterbury Justin Welby a six-month extension to remain at Lambeth Palace following his resignation on January 6. The decision allows the Welby family to continue residing in the historic palace while they seek a new home, as confirmed by church officials during the General Synod’s session in London.
Alan Smith, the First Church Estates Commissioner, stated, “With the Commissioners’ agreement, the Welby family is staying in the archbishop’s private quarters at Lambeth Palace for up to six months ahead of their relocation to their new home.” This arrangement comes after a query from a lay delegate in the Diocese of Newcastle prompted the confirmation.
Interestingly, the documents related to Welby’s departure reveal that there was no settlement agreement or confidentiality clause involved. This transparency is notable, especially in light of the scrutiny Welby faced regarding his handling of the John Smyth case, which has been described as a significant scandal within the Church. Smyth, who passed away in 2018, was labeled the most prolific sexual abuser in the Church’s history, and the fallout from this situation has led to serious discussions about safeguarding practices within the denomination.
Welby acknowledged the need for both personal and institutional accountability for what he termed historical safeguarding failures. Critics have argued that a more proactive response to the allegations against Smyth might have mitigated the harm caused. A review conducted by Keith Makin, a former social services director, concluded that Welby bore personal and moral responsibility to act on concerns raised with him in 2013, regardless of the existing procedures at the time.
The former Archbishop’s last day at Lambeth Palace was met with mixed reactions, especially after he hosted social activities and made light-hearted remarks in the House of Lords. This behavior drew criticism, as many felt it trivialized the serious accusations surrounding the Church’s safeguarding record. Welby later issued an apology for these comments, acknowledging that they may have been perceived as dismissive.
As the Welby family prepares for their move, details regarding their future residence remain undisclosed. However, it has been confirmed that Welby is entitled to financial provisions available to clergy, in accordance with the Church’s guidelines. Though he is now officially referred to as Bishop Welby, the family continues to reside in the palace, a site that has been home to archbishops of Canterbury for centuries.
In the interim, the leadership of the Church of England has shifted to the Archbishop of York, with a permanent successor to the Canterbury seat expected by the end of the year. Potential candidates include bishops known for their involvement in social initiatives and those overseeing changes to same-sex blessing practices. While speculation abounds within Church circles, no formal announcements have yet been made.
As the Church of England moves forward, the implications of Welby’s departure and the ongoing discussions about safeguarding practices will undoubtedly shape the future of the denomination. The faithful and the wider community will be watching closely as new leadership emerges and as the Church seeks to address past failures while fostering a more secure environment for all its members.