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58m ago

Sarah Mullally Named First Woman Archbishop of Canterbury

Downing Street confirmed the Crown Nominations Commission’s choice with the King’s consent, setting a January legal confirmation followed by a March 2026 installation.

FILE - Archbishop of Canterbury Justin Welby as he listens to debate at the General Synod in London, Monday, Feb. 13, 2017. (AP Photo/Alastair Grant, File)
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The Bishop of London Sarah Mullally participates in a service of prayer and reflection, following the passing of Britain's Queen Elizabeth, at St Paul's Cathedral on September 9, 2022 in London, England.
Mullally, who has served as Bishop of London since 2018, has previously championed several liberal causes within the Church, including allowing blessings for same-sex couples.

Overview

  • The Prime Minister’s office announced the appointment after a year-long CNC process chaired by Lord Jonathan Evans, which followed a public consultation drawing more than 11,000 responses and required a two‑thirds vote.
  • Mullally, 63, has served as Bishop of London since 2018 and previously was England’s Chief Nursing Officer; she helped lead the church’s work on marriage and sexuality and supported offering blessings to same‑sex couples.
  • She becomes Archbishop-designate immediately, with a Confirmation of Election at St Paul’s Cathedral in January 2026 and an installation service at Canterbury Cathedral in March.
  • The seat fell vacant after Justin Welby resigned in November 2024 following an independent review into failures to act on the abuses of John Smyth; he left office in January 2025.
  • Reactions split quickly, with Keir Starmer welcoming the choice as nationally significant while GAFCON declared Canterbury had relinquished authority to lead; Mullally pledged renewed focus on safeguarding and survivor trust.