The Anglican Church of Australia has for the first time apologised to victims of domestic violence — many of whom, it says, have been let down by Church leaders and teachings — and pledged to undertake independent research into the nature and extent of family violence in Anglican communities.
The Church’s triennial General Synod meeting, held this week in Maroochydore, Queensland, heard abuse of power was “at the heart” of many relationship problems in the church.
“We grieve with victims and survivors of domestic abuse, and pray for their healing and recovery,” the General Synod said in its apology.