Church of England Names Sarah Mullally First Woman Archbishop

In a historic decision, Sarah Mullally has been appointed as the 106th Archbishop of Canterbury, becoming the first woman to hold the position in the Church of England’s 1,400-year history. She will serve as the ceremonial head of approximately 85 million Anglicans worldwide.

Mullally, 63, has been the Bishop of London since 2018. She previously served as England’s Chief Nursing Officer and worked as a cancer nurse, experiences that have shaped her focus on compassion, transparency, and community care.

Ordained as a priest in 2002, Mullally was among the first women consecrated as bishops in the Church of England in 2015. She has emphasized a leadership style centered on dialogue and supporting communities through difficult times. “It’s all about people, and sitting with people during the most difficult times in their lives,” she said, highlighting the parallels between nursing and pastoral care.

The reforms allowing women to hold the Archbishop position were introduced 11 years ago. Mullally’s appointment is seen as a major milestone for gender equality within one of Britain’s oldest institutions. She will be formally installed at Canterbury Cathedral in March 2026.

Prime Minister Keir Starmer welcomed the appointment, noting the Archbishop’s pivotal role in national life. Mullally succeeds Justin Welby, who resigned last November amid a child abuse cover-up scandal.

Married to Eamonn and a mother of two adult children, Mullally’s leadership is expected to focus on fostering unity, growth, and a renewed sense of hope within the Church, balancing tradition with modern challenges.

The Church of England has confirmed preparations are underway for Mullally’s formal installation ceremony at Canterbury Cathedral in March 2026.