Child sex abuse allegations covered up by Church in Wales, says report
BBC World
February 26, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
A recent report reveals shocking failures by the Church in Wales regarding child sex abuse allegations involving Anthony Pierce, a former bishop who was jailed for historical sexual abuse. The report highlights that despite multiple concerns raised between 1986 and 2010, including an admission of inappropriate behavior by Pierce, no action was taken due to a "don't ask, don't tell" culture within the church. This inaction allowed Pierce to rise through the ranks and become a bishop until his retirement in 2008. The alleged victim's mother expressed frustration over the lack of response, stating that her son had no trust in the system and was dismissed despite her efforts to report the abuse.
The review, led by barrister Gabrielle Higgins, details a "catalogue of failures" by the Church, including inadequate processes and harmful assumptions. It points out that concerns were raised with senior members, including four archbishops such as Dr. Rowan Williams and Archbishop Cherry Vann, but no decisive action was taken. This failure to address the allegations led to further harm, as Pierce continued in his role until his conviction in 2023 for abusing a different boy. The report also notes that the alleged abuse of the 15-year-old altar server was dismissed due to a misunderstanding of child protection, with some viewing it as less severe since it involved a male victim.
The mother of the alleged victim shared her emotional journey, feeling isolated and unsupported by the Church. She emphasized how her son's trust in the system was shattered, leading to long-term emotional trauma. The report underscores the broader implications for the Church, highlighting its need for accountability and systemic change to prevent future failures. Current Archbishop Cherry Vann acknowledged the review's findings, acknowledging the missed opportunities and inadequate responses that caused significant harm.
This scandal raises critical questions about the Church's handling of abuse allegations and its prioritization of reputation over vulnerable individuals. It serves as a stark reminder of the importance of transparency and accountability in institutions, particularly those with significant influence like religious organizations. The case of Anthony Pierce and the Church in Wales highlights the urgent need for reforms to ensure that such atrocities are not repeated and that victims receive the justice they deserve.
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Originally published on BBC World on 2/26/2026