Faith Facts

• The Church of England’s disciplinary president found no grounds for action against Archbishop Stephen Cottrell regarding his handling of safeguarding complaints.
• Archbishop Cottrell expressed regret over past decisions and committed to a survivor-centered approach moving forward.
• Significant improvements have been made to the Church’s safeguarding standards in recent years.

Archbishop Stephen Cottrell was cleared of misconduct following a detailed review of his response to concerns about former priest David Tudor. Sir Stephen Males determined there was no authority to remove Tudor at the time the issues were raised.

The Archbishop acknowledged mistakes in how the situation was managed and expressed sorrow for the impact on those affected.

“With today’s trauma-informed understanding – which rightly places greater emphasis on listening carefully to survivors and recognising the lasting harm caused by abuse – I would take a different approach now.”

He affirmed his commitment to improving safeguarding practices and meeting with survivors to ensure a safer church for all.

As Christians, we must continue to pray for healing, justice, and integrity in our church leaders, standing firm in our calling to uphold truth and compassion in every circumstance.

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Faith Facts

• The Catholic Church in Scotland has publicly supported new legislation to criminalize the purchase of sex.
• The bill seeks to clear previous convictions for soliciting and provide support for those affected by prostitution.
• Bishop John Keenan emphasized the need for protecting vulnerable people and addressing the harms of prostitution.

Scottish church leaders are standing behind a bill designed to address the demand for prostitution and care for individuals who have suffered its effects. The legislation, proposed by Ash Regan MSP, places responsibility on those who purchase sexual acts while offering practical help and a fresh start to the exploited.

The bishops highlight that this approach targets vulnerability and trauma, supporting those most deeply impacted by society’s failings. By removing the punishment from victims and focusing on eradicating exploitation, the Church calls for justice rooted in compassion.

“Evidence from Scotland and beyond demonstrates that prostitution is deeply rooted in vulnerability. A disproportionate number of those involved have experienced childhood sexual abuse, time in care, grooming, and other forms of trauma,” Bishop Keenan stated.

The Church also notes the bill’s potential to reduce human trafficking tied to the sex trade, underlining a Christian duty to defend dignity and freedom. With Parliament set to scrutinize the law, bishops urge leaders to seize this chance and champion the rights of women and girls in line with Biblical values.

Let us pray that Scotland’s leaders choose to advance laws that uphold the worth of all people and protect the innocent from harm. Stay informed on how faith continues to shape crucial debates in our society.

Read the full report at Christian Today

Faith Facts

• Theological Seminary St. Chrischona is refocusing on biblical education and reducing debt through restructuring.
• Multiple properties, including Haus zu den Bergen, have been sold with a commitment to preserving their Christian character.
• A merger with IGW will strengthen continuing education and broaden the seminary’s mission reach.

The Theological Seminary St. Chrischona in Bettingen, Switzerland, is narrowing its efforts to its core mission of Christian education and stewardship by consolidating real estate and deepening strategic partnerships.

Under the “TSC 2040” plan, the seminary will prioritize theological formation for future generations while easing financial burdens, marking a prayerful step toward its 200th anniversary.

Chrischona Campus AG will cease most external guest operations by fall 2026, ending years of fiscal strain and putting greater emphasis on training future Christian leaders.

Recent property sales, including Haus zu den Bergen and the Women’s Residence, reflect a responsible approach to managing God-given resources for His Kingdom purpose.

“We are therefore all the more grateful that we have found new neighbors who share our values and will shape them. With the proceeds, we will now significantly reduce our bank mortgages. This greatly relieves our work and confirms us on the path we have taken.”

Remaining properties directly related to education, such as the conference center, student residence, Eben-Ezer Hall, and St. Chrischona Church, will be kept to support the seminary’s spiritual legacy.

Christian Haslebacher, leader of Viva Church Switzerland, affirmed that renewed focus on equipping faithful Christians is broadly supported by the community.

The recently announced TSC-IGW Academy, launching in 2026, will expand opportunities for discipleship and continuing education by joining the strengths of both institutions.

“This merger is an investment in theological education for the benefit of the Kingdom of God,” said Dr. Benedikt Walker, TSC Rector.

TSC, founded in 1840, continues to answer God’s call to train leaders who impact the world with biblical truth and Christlike service.

Stay prayerful and informed as Christian education advances into the future.

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