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Sarah Mullally becomes first female Archbishop of Canterbury
Sarah Mullally has been appointed as the new Archbishop of Canterbury, making history as the first woman to lead the Church of England in its 1,400-year history.
Mullally, 63, who once served as Chief Nursing Officer for England, entered the priesthood after a distinguished career in nursing. She was appointed Bishop of London in 2018, the third most senior position in the Church of England.
Her appointment comes after the resignation of Justin Welby, who stepped down following criticism over the Church’s handling of a child abuse scandal.
Mullally said she would bring the same spirit of service that guided her career in health and ministry to her new role, adding that she would listen deeply to survivors and work to restore trust in the Church.
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The appointment, confirmed by King Charles after a recommendation by the Crown Nominations Commission, comes at a time when the church is grappling with falling attendance, financial strain, and divisions between conservative and liberal wings.
Though welcomed by many, Mullally’s elevation has drawn criticism from conservative Anglican groups, especially in Africa and Asia, where opposition to women in senior leadership remains strong.
Still, church leaders in Britain describe her as a steady hand to guide the Church through a period of change and renewal.
Mullally will be formally installed as the 106th Archbishop of Canterbury at a service in March.
