In an unexpected and dramatic move, the head of the Anglican Church, Bishop Justin Welbyannounced his resignation on November 12. The decision comes a week after the publication of an independent report revealing the Anglican Church’s mishandling of a case involving a layman who had committed sexual assault against children for more than four decades.

The report accuses Welby, who served as spiritual leader to 85 million Anglicans worldwide, of failing to report the incidents to authorities in 2013, despite having been informed of them. The decision comes late and, once again, in response to a report revealing long-standing violations.

However, Welby’s resignation also sends a strong and clear message to institutional leaders and public figures around the world. This is especially important for religious leaders, whose followers often look to them for moral guidance on knowing right from wrong. With this moral authority comes responsibility: the ability to recognize mistakes and step back if necessary.

Faced with the tragedies of sexual abuse which so frequently affect their institutions, believers expect unfailing exemplarity from their leaders. They owe it not only to respect for their institution and their faith in God, but also to the victims.

Wolf Besmond of Senneville is deputy editor-in-chief of The Cross And former Vatican correspondent.