Bishop of Liverpool Resigns Amidst Sexual Assault and Harassment Allegations

The Right Reverend Dr. John Perumbalath has stepped down from his position as Bishop of Liverpool following allegations of sexual misconduct, including kissing a woman without consent and groping her. Another individual has also accused him of sexual harassment. Despite denying all accusations, Bishop Perumbalath chose to retire without admitting any guilt to prevent the matter from overshadowing the work of the diocese.

Bishop Perumbalath has claimed that investigations conducted by experts from the National Safeguarding Team and police found no basis for the allegations against him. He expressed his dissatisfaction with how media coverage has painted him as guilty, insisting that reports regarding his safeguarding assessment prior to his appointment were inaccurate. He cited that the Church of England's own statements have confirmed that there were no serious concerns about his previous experience in operational safeguarding.

In his resignation statement, the bishop emphasized his desire not to let this situation become a distraction for the Diocese of Liverpool, a community he has served with honor and joy. Archbishop of York, Stephen Cottrell, acknowledged the painful circumstances and extended his prayers to all those affected, while the Diocese of Liverpool expressed its sorrow over the unfolding situation and reiterated its support for those involved.