Friday, January 31, 2025 - The Bishop of Liverpool, John Perumbalath, announced his resignation on Thursday following allegations of sexual assault and harassment aired by a British broadcaster. The claims were reported by Channel 4 News, where two women accused the bishop of "inappropriate behaviour."
In a statement, Perumbalath denied any wrongdoing but
described the "rush to judgement" and "trial by media" as
having rendered his position "untenable." He stated that his
immediate retirement was necessary to avoid a prolonged period of uncertainty
while the claims were further investigated.
"I do not wish this story to become a distraction for
this incredible diocese and its people, whom it has been an honour and joy to
serve," Perumbalath said. He maintained that he had "not done
anything wrong" and noted that a Church safeguarding team had deemed the
allegations "unsubstantiated." Additionally, the first allegation had
been investigated by police, who decided not to pursue further action.
Despite these findings, Perumbalath said media reports
treated him as guilty, making it impossible for him to continue his role.
The resignation comes amid heightened scrutiny of the Church
of England following the recent resignation of Archbishop of Canterbury Justin
Welby over the Church's mishandling of abuse cases. Welby stepped down after an
independent review found that he "could and should" have reported
decades of abuse by Church-linked lawyer John Smyth to authorities in 2013.
Smyth was responsible for the abuse of up to 130 boys and young men across
Britain, Zimbabwe, and South Africa, according to the review.
The Liverpool diocese acknowledged Perumbalath's decision,
stating, "We continue working hard to support all those who have been
affected by this story."
The Church of England has faced mounting criticism over its
handling of abuse cases, with calls for accountability extending to senior
figures, including the outgoing Archbishop of York, Stephen Cottrell, who has
also been accused of mishandling a sexual abuse case during his tenure as
Bishop of Chelmsford.
0 Comments