Beth Heinrich will soon receive an apology from the most senior Anglican official in Queensland, Archbishop Jeremy Greaves, at an Evensong service on March 22nd. This apology is specifically for failures by former Archbishop Peter Hollingworth in the handling of Heinrich’s abuser, Donald Shearman, a deposed bishop who is now deceased.
A Decades-Long Pursuit of Justice
Heinrich has spent decades campaigning for justice related to her treatment by Shearman, an Anglican priest, and the subsequent handling of her case by Hollingworth, who later served as Australia’s 23rd governor general. Hollingworth was found to have failed to act to remove Shearman from the church after becoming aware of the abuse.
Heinrich has previously received apologies from less senior church officials, but believes an apology from an archbishop carries greater weight and could encourage other survivors to come forward. “I just hope the publicity will be a benefit to others, grant them the courage to do something about it,” she said.
Hollingworth has acknowledged making mistakes and previously apologized, stating, “I made mistakes and undo them.” He also maintained he committed no crimes and that any decisions, or lack thereof, did not contribute to the abuse. He attributed his actions to advice received from church lawyers and insurance companies at the time.
Hollingworth resigned from his position as governor general following criticism of his handling of sexual abuse allegations. In 2023, an internal church process found him to have engaged in serious misconduct by failing to remove Shearman and another abuser from their positions. Despite these findings, the church initially recommended he be allowed to continue his priestly duties, but he later voluntarily relinquished his permission to officiate, citing a desire to end distress to survivors.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Beth Heinrich hoping to achieve with this apology?
Heinrich hopes the publicity surrounding the apology will inspire other survivors of abuse to fight for justice.
What was Peter Hollingworth’s role in the handling of the abuse case?
Hollingworth was found to have failed to act to remove Donald Shearman from the church despite being aware of the abuse.
Did Peter Hollingworth admit to abuse himself?
No, Hollingworth is not accused of abuse himself, but he acknowledged making mistakes in his handling of the case.
What impact will this apology have on other survivors of abuse within the Anglican Church remains to be seen.
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