**Archbishop of Wales Resigns in Wake of Bangor Cathedral Misconduct Reports**
In a dramatic development within the Church in Wales, the Most Reverend Andrew John, Archbishop of Wales and Bishop of Bangor, has announced his immediate resignation. This announcement follows the release of two confidential reports into the culture surrounding Bangor Diocese, which highlighted disturbing concerns including inappropriate behaviour, excessive alcohol consumption, and instances of sexual misconduct deemed inconsistent with the values of the church.
Archbishop John’s decision to step down has sent ripples through the Welsh religious community. In a formal statement, he confirmed his intention not only to retire from his role as Archbishop with immediate effect, but also from his longstanding position as Bishop of Bangor, effective from August 31. This abrupt move comes as the Church in Wales contends with the findings of the reports, which were commissioned amid worries about professional boundaries and standards within the diocesan community.
The reports, conducted at the church’s behest, pointed to “behaviour and circumstances which did not reflect the professional standards expected in a Christian church.” The church’s own response to these findings has been one of both gratitude for the Archbishop’s years of service and recognition that change is necessary moving forward. It is clear the reports galvanised a process of reflection and accountability at the highest levels of the church.
Archbishop John, who has served the Church in Wales for over three and a half decades, spoke with evident emotion in his farewell. “It has been an enormous joy to serve in the Church in Wales for over 35 years. I cannot thank you enough for the privilege of working at your side for the sake of our Saviour Jesus Christ,” he said. He went on to thank clergy and congregants across the diocese, promising to communicate further about his formal departure and transition. His words expressed both gratitude and a sense of sorrow at this unexpected conclusion to his ministry.
Support and respect for Archbishop John’s years of service were echoed by other senior church figures. The Bishop of St Asaph, the Right Reverend Gregory Cameron, speaking on behalf of the Church in Wales’ Bench of Bishops, acknowledged Archbishop John’s “dedication and energy” in service of the church’s mission. He described John’s 36 years in ordained ministry as a period marked by commitment to faith, gratitude for his leadership, and prayerful well wishes for the Archbishop and his family in the times ahead.
Professor Medwin Hughes, Chair of the Representative Body of the Church in Wales, also expressed heartfelt thanks. He highlighted Archbishop John’s pastoral care, vision, and integrity during significant periods of change and challenge for the church. “The Archbishop has led the church through a time of immense change and challenge… I know that everyone who has worked with The Archbishop during his ministry will have been touched by his pastoral care and his profound dedication to improving the life of the Church in Wales and of the wider community,” Hughes commented.
Despite the outpourings of respect and gratitude, the context behind Archbishop John’s retirement cannot be overlooked. The reports, which have not been released in full to the public, apparently describe patterns of behaviour within the Bangor Diocese—ranging from excessive social drinking to inappropriate sexual conduct—that put the integrity and reputation of the Church in question. While no individual wrongdoers have been publicly identified, the scandal has cast a critical light on issues of leadership, oversight, and culture within Welsh Anglicanism.
The departure of a figure as prominent as Archbishop John raises fresh questions about the future direction of the Church in Wales. As one of its key leaders, his exit amid controversy is likely to prompt a thorough review of church safeguards, accountability systems, and the wellbeing of both clergy and lay members alike. The church hierarchy faces the task of restoring faith and public trust while addressing the systemic challenges highlighted by the reports.
Looking ahead, the Church in Wales will soon seek a new Archbishop and a new Bishop for Bangor. In the meantime, senior bishops and the representative body have called for unity, prayer, and reflection. They have pledged to hold both Archbishop John and his family, as well as the entire church community, in their thoughts as this period of transition unfolds. The hope among many is that, with renewed commitment, transparency, and leadership, the church can emerge strengthened from this difficult chapter.