It is now one month since the Makin review which led to the resignation of Archbishop Justin. I’m conscious that I haven’t said anything publicly since my statement on 12th November and my Diocesan Synod Presidential Address on 16th November.
In this period I have sought to ensure that the safeguarding structures of the diocese are robust, including through regular contact with our Diocesan Safeguarding Officer and meetings with members of the Bishop’s Leadership Team. I have sought also to be prayerfully reflective through maintaining my daily pattern of prayer in the chapel at Bishopscourt. During these times of quiet, I have prayed primarily for all victims and survivors of church abuse, and for all those caught up in recent events. I have prayed also for the church which, as a human institution, is fallible, flawed and imperfect but remains still, the body of Christ. And through these weeks, I’ve been aware too that the National Safeguarding Team need time to follow their processes in considering the Makin review and investigating the involvement of those individuals who have been named.
The past four weeks have given me cause to reflect on the need for repentance and new beginnings and how we might best set a course towards a place of healing. Like many, I found myself dismayed at the tone and content of the Archbishop’s valedictory speech in the House of Lords. However, during this time I have also been struck, once again, by the damaging and unhealthy nature of much of the public discourse which all too easily polarises and divides. There is no substitute for meeting face to face. I very much hope that in the New Year, as bishops across the Church of England, we will make time to be together, to listen to God and to one another so that we might all be better equipped to serve God and God’s people. As always, I encourage you to do likewise in your own church communities.
In this season of Advent longing, we dwell in darkness and ponder the judgement of God. In our church life, too, we are experiencing darkness and judgement. It is my prayer that we will come through this and be led towards the fulness of Christmas joy.
+Guli Chelmsford
