Bishop of Liverpool retires amid allegations of misconduct

LONDON

The Bishop of Liverpool on Thursday announced his retirement just days after facing allegations of misconduct from two women, including another bishop.

According to British media, one of the women accused the Rt Revd Dr John Perumbalath of kissing her without consent and groping her, while the second alleged that he sexually harassed her.

The bishop has strongly denied the claims.

His retirement was confirmed by the Diocese of Liverpool in a statement issued this afternoon.

In a message posted on the diocese’s website, Perumbalath announced his immediate departure from active ministry.

"Having sought the permission of His Majesty the King, I have today taken the decision to retire from active ministry in the Church of England," he wrote.

"I step back from my ministry today. This means I will not be ministering in or leading the diocese with immediate effect. I have informed the Archbishop of York of my decision, and I understand he will put in place the necessary arrangements for episcopal oversight of the diocese for the remainder of my time here and during the vacancy."

The announcement comes as the Church of England continues to grapple with issues of safeguarding and misconduct within its leadership.