Wilson made the decision a day after he was found guilty of concealing child sexual abuse in a Newcastle court, saying in a statement he had considered Newcastle Magistrate Robert Stone’s ruling overnight. 

“I am still considering those reasons together with my legal advisors,” he said.

“While I do so, it is appropriate that, in the light of some His Honour’s findings, I stand aside from my duties as Archbishop.”

“If at any any point in time it becomes necessary or appropriate for me to take more formal steps, including by resigning as Archbishop, then I will do so.” 

He reassured Adelaide parishioners that “while the remainder of the legal process runs its course”, the archdiocese would be managed appropriately in his absence.