The Bishop of Liverpool, John Perumbalath, has announced his retirement from the Church of England, just days after facing serious allegations of misconduct from two women, including another bishop. This unexpected retirement is adding to the turbulence currently engulfing the Church, which has seen its leadership challenged over safeguarding practices.
Perumbalath, who is 58 years old and originally hails from Kerala, India, voiced his retirement on January 30, 2025, following serious allegations made against him. The accusations reported by Channel 4 News detail incidents where one woman claimed the Right Reverend kissed her without consent and groped her over several occasions between 2019 and 2023. Meanwhile, another individual, identified as a female bishop, accused him of sexual harassment this same year.
Despite these serious claims, Bishop Perumbalath has steadfastly denied any wrongdoing. "Since those allegations were made I have consistently maintained I have not done anything wrong and continue to do so," he stated emphatically, reiterates his innocence within the letter announcing his retirement. His announcement followed standard protocols as he sought and obtained permission from King Charles III to step down.
The decision to retire has sparked widespread attention, with the bishop clarifying, "This is not a resignation occasioned by fault or by any admission of liability." He expressed his hope to prevent these serious allegations from becoming a distraction for the Diocese of Liverpool, indicating his move is aimed at protecting its community. He added, "I have taken this decision for my own well-being, my family and the best interests of the Diocese.”
Perumbalath emphasized his relief to no longer be at the center of attention, reflecting on the negative impact the situation could have on the diocese. His letter, which was made public by the Diocese of Liverpool, has underlined his hope for healing, painting the circumstance as deeply painful for all involved.
The allegations have prompted significant scrutiny of the Church of England. The Archbishop of York, Stephen Cottrell, supported Perumbalath's decision, stating, "I respect his decision and thank him for his ministry." Cottrell, who himself has faced criticism about safeguarding issues within the Church, acknowledged the gravity of the situation and expressed concern for all affected.
While the Church of England's safeguarding team looked closely at the allegations, initial investigations led to the conclusion of no current safeguarding issues. A statement from the church highlighted the lack of substantiated evidence against Perumbalath and indicated the process undertaken to review complaints fell under statutory safeguarding guidance.
Yet, this case has raised questions about how diligently such cases are reviewed and whether institutional responses are satisfactory. A second complaint made known to the Church reportedly did not conclude within the expected timeline for formal procedures.
The Church has come under additional pressure due to this series of events, especially as it follows recent controversies surrounding other figures within its hierarchy. The resignation of Archbishop Justin Welby over separate allegations has culminated in significant instability at the top. The overarching crisis now leads to rising suspicions over the Church’s handling of misconduct and safeguarding standards.
One concerned bishop noted, "Yet again failures at the heart of the institution of the Church of England... undermine credibility and confidence in the church." This sentiment reflects broader apprehension and scrutiny faced by the Church, demanding accountability and meaningful action.
With Perumbalath's retirement, the Diocese of Liverpool is now tasked with finding suitable acting leadership. The church has expressed its commitment to ensuring stability during this transitional phase, indicating they will implement measures for uninterrupted episcopal oversight.
All eyes will be on how the Church of England navigates this alarming scenario, which calls for systemic change from within. The Retirement of Bishop Perumbalath, against the backdrop of these serious allegations, compels the Church to confront its past shortcomings and strive for rehabilitating institutional trust.
Indeed, with such upheaval, many will be watching closely to see how the Church of England moves forward during these turbulent times, focusing on safeguarding and accountability as they aim to restore public confidence.