LONDON — In a groundbreaking move, Sarah Mullally has been appointed as the new Archbishop of Canterbury, becoming the first woman to lead the Church of England in its 1,400-year history. Mullally, 63, was named to the prestigious post by the Church of England and the UK government, with the approval of King Charles III.
Mullally, a former nurse, has been the Bishop of London since 2018 and has been a vocal advocate for liberal causes within the Church. She has championed the rights of LGBTQ+ individuals, including allowing blessings for same-sex couples. Her appointment is seen as a significant milestone for the Church of England, marking a shift towards greater inclusivity and diversity.
Key Facts About Archbishop Sarah Mullally:
– Background: Mullally is a former nurse who became the youngest person to be appointed as Chief Nursing Officer for England at 37.
– Church Career: She was ordained in 2001 and has served as Bishop of London since 2018, becoming the first woman to hold the role.
– Appointment: Mullally was elected by the College of Canons of Canterbury Cathedral and approved by King Charles III.
Mullally’s appointment has not been without controversy, however. The Global Anglican Future Conference (GAFCON), a grouping of conservative Anglican churches, has expressed opposition to her appointment, stating that the Church of England has “relinquished its authority to lead”.
Despite the criticism, Mullally’s appointment is seen as a significant step forward for the Church of England. She will be installed in a service at Canterbury Cathedral in March 2026 and will lead the global Anglican Communion, representing around 85 million people across 165 countries.