Bishop of Oxford responds to Makin Review and Archbishop Welby’s resignation
Bishop Steven Croft said: "Our prayers and thoughts should focus first on the survivors and victims of John Smyth"
Following the release of the Makin Review on 7 November 2024, the Diocese of Oxford shared a statement from Bishop Steven Croft. In his message, the Bishop responded to the Church of England’s handling of abuse allegations against the late John Smyth, a barrister and known child abuser.
Led by Keith Makin, the independent review highlighted serious failures in the church’s safeguarding practices, showing the lasting impact on survivors.
This review has stirred strong emotions, with many feeling both moved and angered by the detailed accounts of abuse and the church’s ongoing failures in safeguarding over the years.
Bishop Steven’s statement centers around the experiences of the survivors and victims of John Smyth’s actions, acknowledging the enduring harm they have faced.
"Our prayers and thoughts should focus first on the survivors and victims of John Smyth and all others affected by his abuse who have suffered so much and for so long," he shared, focusing on the importance of support for those who have spoken out as well as those whose pain remains hidden.
Beyond expressing sorrow, Bishop Steven used this moment to emphasize the need for all church leaders to prioritize safeguarding practices. He urged clergy and lay leaders to fully engage with the review’s recommendations, calling this a time for “rigorous and independent scrutiny” of church practices. Despite a positive outcome from the Diocese’s recent safeguarding audit, the Bishop reminded everyone that continuous improvement is essential to make church spaces safer.
The Bishop also acknowledged the resignation of Archbishop Justin Welby, who stepped down in light of the review. He asked the community to keep the Archbishop and his family in their prayers, with a renewed focus on those affected by abuse. He concluded with a passage from Romans 8, reminding everyone of God’s love and mercy through difficult times.