Two Summaries Released

The Archbishop of Wales, Andrew John, has announced his retirement from the role, effective immediately. He will also retire as the Bishop of Bangor on August 31.

His decision to retire comes after a challenging period for the Bangor diocese, following the release of summaries of two reports highlighting issues such as blurred sexual boundaries, excessive alcohol consumption, governance weaknesses, and safeguarding issues at Bangor Cathedral.

While there were calls for the archbishop to resign, he offered a sincere apology to any members of the cathedral community who may have been hurt or felt let down.

The Church formed an implementation group and oversight board to address the issues raised in the reports, although the full reports have not been made public.

The Charity Commission confirmed it is conducting a regulatory compliance case into charities associated with the diocese, following reports of serious incidents.

Some priests within Bangor Cathedral have publicly called for an independent inquiry into the cathedral and diocese, with support from other church members and Senedd member Sian Gwenllian.

After a meeting where the Representative Body expressed no confidence in the leadership of the Bangor Diocese, the Archbishop of Wales attempted to amend the statement but was unsuccessful. The Church in Wales thanked Mr. John for his service, without mentioning recent events at the Bangor diocese.

Andrew John, who became Bishop of Bangor in 2008 and Archbishop of Wales in December 2021, expressed gratitude for his time in the Church in Wales and was praised for his dedication and service by senior church figures.