Historic First Woman Becomes Archbishop of Canterbury in the Church of England
London Welcomes First Female Archbishop of Canterbury: Sarah Mullally Makes History
Sarah Mullally has been appointed as the new Archbishop of Canterbury, marking a historic moment as she becomes the first woman to take on this prestigious role in its 1,400-year history. Mullally, previously the Bishop of London, steps into the position as the spiritual leader of 85 million Anglicans worldwide.
The Journey from Nursing to the Archbishop’s Role
Before her ordination, Mullally had a distinguished career in nursing, culminating in her role as Chief Nursing Officer for England. Her journey to faith and leadership is rooted in a lifelong commitment to service, as she shares, “As I respond to this new ministry, I do so in the same spirit of service to God and to others that has motivated me since I was a teenager.”
Pioneering Modern Approaches in the Church of England
Mullally has been an influential figure in the Church of England, especially in matters of marriage and sexuality, supporting same-sex blessings in churches. Her leadership during the Covid-19 pandemic demonstrated her ability to modernize and effectively manage her diocese. Her appointment as archbishop follows reforms that allowed women to be consecrated as bishops, initiated by former leader Justin Welby.
A Historic Transition in Leadership
Mullally’s predecessor, Justin Welby, resigned following controversy over the handling of sexual abuse allegations against John Smyth, highlighting challenges within the Church. Diarmaid MacCulloch, a church historian, described Welby’s resignation as unprecedented in the long history of the Archbishops of Canterbury.
The Role of the Archbishop of Canterbury in a Changing Society
The Archbishop of Canterbury, often seen as the public face of the Church of England, has a prominent role in significant national events, including royal ceremonies like King Charles’s recent coronation. As the Church navigates contemporary challenges, Mullally aims to engage younger generations and stabilize church attendance amidst a more secular society.
Selection and Appointment Process
| Stage | Detail |
|---|---|
| Crown Nominations Commission | Chaired by Jonathan Evans, tasked with selecting a preferred candidate. |
| Prime Minister’s Assent | The chosen candidate is endorsed by Prime Minister Keir Starmer. |
| Formal Appointment | King Charles officially appoints the Archbishop as Supreme Governor of the Church. |
Mullally’s Future Vision for the Church
In the coming months, Mullally will focus on addressing the declining number of churchgoers and financial challenges facing the church. Her official installation at Canterbury Cathedral is scheduled for March 2026, where she will become the 106th archbishop since Saint Augustine’s time.
