Written By Lisa Murimi
Archbishop of York Stephen Cottrell is under pressure to resign over his handling of a sexual abuse case involving priest David Tudor, just days before he is set to temporarily lead the Church of England.
As Bishop of Chelmsford, Cottrell allowed Tudor to remain in ministry despite knowing the priest had paid compensation to a sexual abuse victim and was barred from being alone with children.
An investigation revealed Tudor, now banned from ministry for life, admitted historical sexual misconduct involving two girls.
Critics, including Bishop of Newcastle Helen-Ann Hartley, argue Cottrell’s failure to act undermines his moral authority.
“How can you lead with credibility when such a case was mishandled?” she asked.
Jessica, one of Tudor’s victims, says Cottrell’s inaction feels like betrayal. “I feel like he has spat in my face,” she told the BBC.
This controversy compounds turmoil in the Church following a damning report on abuse cover-ups that led to the resignation of Archbishop of Canterbury Justin Welby.
Cottrell’s office maintains he acted within legal advice but regrets Tudor’s honorary promotion in 2012.
Critics argue the Church’s approach has been insufficient, with survivors calling for stronger accountability and justice for victims.
