Displaying items by tag: Church in Wales

The Church in Wales faces deepening scandal as fresh historical sexual abuse allegations emerge against former bishop Anthony Pierce, already jailed earlier this year for child sexual abuse, and an unnamed former vicar. BBC Wales said that warnings about Pierce’s predatory behaviour surfaced as early as 1986, yet he rose to become Bishop of Swansea and Brecon in 1999. Survivors like Alisdair Adams, who endured unwanted sexual advances, question how he advanced within church ranks despite earlier concerns. Other victims described how Pierce’s inaction allowed further abuse, such as that perpetrated by choirmaster David Gedge. Additional testimony highlighted a culture of secrecy, intimidation, and institutional protectionism, with victims and whistleblowers often silenced or discouraged from speaking out. Calls are mounting for an independent inquiry to investigate the Church’s failures. In response, the Church in Wales has apologised, pledging a comprehensive safeguarding audit and cultural review to restore trust. However, survivors remain sceptical, fearing systemic issues persist beneath public assurances of reform and accountability.

The Church in Wales is set to reconsider its stance on same-sex blessings, with the experimental provision allowing blessings for same-sex couples due to expire in September 2026. While the Church still does not permit same-sex marriage, the blessing service was introduced in 2021 as a compromise, allowing clergy to decide individually whether to conduct such services. The Archbishop of Wales, Most Rev Andrew John, has called for prayerful and open discussions as the denomination discerns its next steps. A series of meetings will be held across Wales, providing clergy and congregants a chance to share their perspectives. Options under consideration include ending the practice, extending it, or introducing a formal service of same-sex marriage within the Church. The Archbishop emphasised the need for respectful engagement with one another, Scripture, and tradition. The Scottish Episcopal Church already permits same-sex marriage, as do the Quakers, Unitarians, and the United Reformed Church.