Archbishop of York admits failure to address sex abuse allegations sooner
- Stephen Cottrell apologized for not taking earlier action in a sex abuse case involving priest David Tudor.
- Cottrell faced scrutiny after a BBC investigation revealed past safeguarding failures during his tenure as Bishop of Chelmsford.
- Calls for Cottrell's resignation have surfaced, raising concerns about leadership trust within the Church of England.
In December 2024, the Archbishop of York, Stephen Cottrell, publicly apologized for delays in addressing a sexual abuse case linked to a priest in the Church of England. Cottrell is set to temporarily replace Archbishop of Canterbury Justin Welby, who announced his resignation following serious criticism related to his handling of another sex abuse situation involving serial abuser John Smyth. The controversy has deepened with a BBC investigation detailing past safeguarding failures that allowed David Tudor, a priest known to have abused minors, to remain in ministry despite prior warnings. Cottrell mentioned taking action after a new complaint was made in 2019 but acknowledges that delays in addressing Tudor’s behavior contributed to a serious breach of trust within the church community. Bishop Helen-Ann Hartley publicly stated that due to the evidence presented, it is no longer tenable for Cottrell to lead effectively, calling into question his ability to inspire confidence or implement necessary changes within the Church. This has created a ripple effect within the Church of England, causing discontent among followers and clergy alike, and leading to discussions around further organizational reforms regarding safeguarding practices for vulnerable populations within the Church.