The Church of England owes Zimbabwe more than an apology
Summary
A group of Zimbabweans is suing the Church of England over abuse by John Smyth, a church leader, at Christian camps. The lawsuit highlights the Church's failure to address past abuses and its historical role in colonial activities in Africa. An inquiry report revealed that church leaders hid Smyth’s crimes, leading to the resignation of Archbishop Justin Welby.Key Facts
- Seven Zimbabweans have filed a lawsuit against the Church of England for abuse by John Smyth.
- John Smyth was involved in leading Christian camps in the UK, Zimbabwe, and South Africa, where over 100 boys and young men were reportedly abused.
- Smyth's crimes first surfaced in England in the 1980s, but the Church did not act, allowing him to move to Africa.
- The lawsuit includes the family of Guide Nyachuru, a 16-year-old who died at a camp in Zimbabwe in 1992.
- The Makin Review, an independent inquiry, found that senior Church members concealed Smyth’s abuses.
- Archbishop Justin Welby resigned after the inquiry findings, acknowledging personal and institutional failure.
- Survivors demand the Church take real accountability and not just express regret.
- The Church’s actions echo historical patterns of colonialism and domination in Africa.
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