The Church of England has appointed Sarah Mullally as the new Archbishop of Canterbury — the first woman to hold the post in the Church’s nearly 500-year history. UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer announced her appointment on October 3, describing it as «a historic milestone» for the Anglican community.

At 63, Mullally becomes the 106th Archbishop of Canterbury, succeeding Justin Welby, who stepped down in late 2024 after criticism over the Church’s handling of abuse allegations in Christian youth camps.

Vision for Unity and Renewal

In her first public remarks, Mullally outlined her priorities for the Church, emphasizing unity, compassion, and faith in action.

«Throughout my career — both in nursing and ministry — I have learned to listen carefully to people and to the quiet guidance of God,» she said. Her goal, she added, is to «help the Church remain strong in faith, speak of the love found in Christ, and let that love guide our work.

Response to Social Divisions

Commenting on the October 2 attack on a Manchester synagogue that killed two people, Mullally called it “an act of hatred rooted in division.» She urged communities to resist all forms of racism and intolerance, saying that «hate must never be allowed to separate us.»

From Healthcare Leader to Church Reformer

Before joining the clergy, Mullally built a distinguished career in the UK’s National Health Service (NHS), where she became England’s Chief Nursing Officer at the age of 37. For her contributions to healthcare, she received the title of Dame Commander of the Order of the British Empire.

Ordained in 2002, Mullally was among the first women to benefit from the Church’s 2014 decision allowing female bishops. In 2017, she became the first female Bishop of London, confirmed by Queen Elizabeth II. As bishop, she supported allowing clergy to bless same-sex couples — a move she described as «a moment of hope for the Church.»