Bishop of Guildford Thanks Well-Wishers Following Abuse Revelations

The Right Reverend Andrew Watson, Bishop of Guildford, has expressed gratitude to supporters who contacted him after he revealed he was abused by the individual at the heart of a controversy that led to the Archbishop of Canterbury’s resignation. Bishop Watson stated he was “deeply grateful for all who have reached out to me over the course of the past week, and for your concern and prayers”. Bishop Watson reported in 2017 that he had endured a “violent, excruciating and shocking” beating by barrister John Smyth. In a statement released on Wednesday, he declared: “My prayers remain first and foremost with my fellow victims of Smyth’s abuse.” He added: “I am personally aware that this is a time of heightened emotion for many (which I share), as the depth of Smyth’s brutality has been so clearly revealed; and I pray for some kind of closure for those who have waited so long for it.” The Makin Review, which investigated the Church of England’s handling of serious abuse allegations against Smyth, was published earlier this month. The report detailed the abuse of approximately 130 boys and young men over several decades. Archbishop of Canterbury Justin Welby resigned on Tuesday, citing the need to take “personal and institutional responsibility” for the church’s awareness of the abuse. Bishop Watson commented on the Archbishop’s resignation: “His decision to step down has equally shown a willingness to take responsibility for the wider Church’s failings, and to demonstrate the seriousness of his commitment to those who have suffered as a result.” The bishop affirmed he would “encourage us all to redouble our efforts” regarding safeguarding procedures.