Dame Sarah Mullally to Make History as First Female Archbishop of Canterbury

Dame Sarah Mullally is set to make history as the first female Archbishop of Canterbury, becoming the 106th individual to hold this prestigious position. Her confirmation service will take place at St Paul’s Cathedral in London, marking a significant milestone for the Church of England.

Dame Sarah’s Historic Appointment

The service at St Paul’s Cathedral is scheduled for Wednesday. This event will officially initiate Dame Sarah’s responsibilities as Archbishop. She is anticipated to be formally enthroned at Canterbury Cathedral in March 2024.

Significance of Her Role

Dame Sarah’s appointment is historic and represents a turning point for the Church of England, especially after nearly a decade serving as the Bishop of London. She is also recognized for her service as the country’s former chief nursing officer.

Context and Background

In October 2023, Dame Sarah was officially named as the first woman selected for the Church’s highest clerical role. While the King serves as the head of the Church of England, the Archbishop of Canterbury is viewed as its most senior bishop.

Church Statistics

• 1.02 million regular worshippers in the Church of England in 2024.
• 1.01 million regular worshippers in 2023.
• 85 million members of the Anglican Communion across 165 countries worldwide.

Dame Sarah’s Vision

Dame Sarah expressed her gratitude, stating, “It is an extraordinary and humbling privilege to have been called to be the 106th Archbishop of Canterbury.” She emphasized her intent to lead with “calmness, consistency, and compassion” and to foster environments of healing and hope within communities.

Highlighting current challenges, she noted the importance of unity, stating, “These are times of division and uncertainty for our fractured world.” Dame Sarah aims to create a Church that listens to marginalized voices, particularly those affected by historical abuse cases.

Upcoming Engagements

Before her formal installation, Dame Sarah will engage with Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer and other religious leaders in the UK. She will also meet with King Charles, paying him the traditional homage expected of her role. Though she won’t preach at the confirmation service, she will address the General Synod in February.

Addressing Challenges in the Church

After her appointment, Dame Sarah pledged to confront safeguarding issues within the Church, calling for an examination of the “dynamics of power.” She takes over from Justin Welby, who resigned following controversies over safeguarding failures linked to the case of prolific abuser John Smyth.

A recent complaint against Dame Sarah concerning her handling of an abuse allegation was dismissed, though the complainant may appeal. Joanne Grenfell, the Church’s lead bishop for safeguarding, praised Dame Sarah for her commitment to improving safeguarding systems and processes.

Community and Church Leadership Support

Stephen Cottrell, the Archbishop of York, who served in an interim capacity, acknowledged Dame Sarah’s clarity and wisdom, which he believes is essential for the Church during this transitional period.

Dame Sarah Mullally’s appointment marks a pivotal moment for the Church of England, signifying a commitment to inclusivity and safeguarding as she assumes her role as the first female Archbishop of Canterbury.