Sarah Mullally becomes first female Archbishop of Canterbury
In a landmark decision, Dame Sarah Mullally has been appointed the 106th Archbishop of Canterbury, making her the first woman ever to hold the role in the Church of England’s 1,400-year history. (The Guardian)
Her nomination was announced on 3 October 2025, and she will legally assume the office following the confirmation of her election in January 2026, with an enthronement ceremony scheduled for March at Canterbury Cathedral. (The Guardian)
A historic appointment
Mullally, who has served as Bishop of London since 2018, will succeed Justin Welby, who stepped down in early 2025 amid criticism over his handling of safeguarding issues in the Church. (AP News)
Her selection marks a dramatic moment for the Church: since women were first allowed to become bishops in 2014, this is the moment when the highest ecclesiastical office has finally opened to a woman. (The Guardian)
At 63, Mullally brings decades of service both within and outside the Church, combining experience as an administrator, church leader, and former health service executive. (Wikipedia)
Profile & priorities
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Background: Before entering full-time ministry, Mullally served as Chief Nursing Officer for England and worked in senior leadership roles within the NHS. (Wikipedia)
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Church leadership: As Bishop of London, she took part in the “Living in Love and Faith” initiative, which addressed complex issues around marriage, sexuality and inclusion. (Religion Media Centre)
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Reputation: Her style is often described as pragmatic and managerial rather than charismatic, and she is viewed by some as a steady hand to guide the Church through its current difficulties. (Religion Media Centre)
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Challenges ahead: Mullally inherits a Church grappling with divisions, particularly over LGBTQ+ inclusion and the continuing fallout from abuse scandals. (AP News)
Reaction and controversy
The announcement drew both applause and criticism. Progressive Anglicans hailed the appointment as a step toward greater gender equality in church leadership. Meanwhile, GAFCON, a conservative Anglican coalition in Africa and Asia, warned the decision may fracture global unity, accusing the Church of England of abandoning moral authority. (Reuters)
Within the UK, Prime Minister Keir Starmer and other political leaders expressed support, calling it a historic moment for both church and society. (AP News)
Looking ahead
If all proceeds on schedule:
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Mullally’s election will be confirmed in January 2026. (The Guardian)
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Her formal enthronement at Canterbury Cathedral is expected in March 2026. (AP News)
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As Archbishop, she will serve not only as the senior bishop of the Church of England but also as a symbolic figurehead for the global Anglican Communion (though each national church remains autonomous). (AP News)
This appointment signals a new chapter—and large expectations—for the Church of England and global Anglicanism.