The Archbishop of York will tell worshippers to put the needs of victims of abuse and exploitation first in a Christmas Day sermon, despite calls for his own resignation.

Helen-Ann Hartley asked how Stephen Cottrell could have credibility, after a priest allegedly at the centre of a case was twice reappointed

The Bishop of Newcastle has criticised the Christmas Day sermon delivered by the Archbishop of York, describing his suggestion that the Church of England needs to change as “empty words”. Stephen Cottrell said the Church should “kneel in penitence” as it continues to face criticism over failures in its handling of various abuse scandals.