Church of England names first female archbishop of Canterbury

Sarah Mullally, the first woman to hold the position in the Church’s most senior office, will be appointed as Canterbury’s next archbishop, according to the Church of England.

As well as facing a Communion divided over issues like the acceptance of same-sex couples and the role of women in the Church, Mullally, 63, will lead 85 million Anglicans worldwide.

Justin Welby, who resigned last year as a result of a child abuse cover-up scandal, is now in Mullally’s place.

The new archbishop addressed congregants at Canterbury Cathedral on Friday for the first time and expressed her appreciation for the world’s hope in a difficult time.

Mullally argued that her first duty is to spread Christ’s message, but she also used her speech to address issues in the UK, including migration and the deadly attack on a Manchester synagogue on Thursday that left two people dead.

According to Mullally, “We are witnessing hatred that rises through divisions across our communities.”

“I am aware that those who suffer are drawn nearer to the God who is with us.” Then, as a Church, we have a responsibility to stand up for antisemitism in all its manifestations. She continued, “We cannot tolerate hatred and racism of any kind.”

Due to her gender, Mullally’s appointment received criticism from traditional African Anglican churches.

Bishops from Nigeria, Rwanda, and Uganda were included in the Global Anglican Future Conference, which claimed Mullally’s appointment would “promote unbiblical and revisionist teachings regarding marriage and sexual morality.”

The majority of the Anglican Communion still believes that the Bible calls for a male-only episcopacy, according to the Reverend Laurent Mbanda in a statement for the organization.

The evangelical branch of the Church of England called for a stop to what it termed a “detour from scripture.”

Mullally has previously advocated for same-sex couples receiving blessings. She has been bishop of London since 2018.

Mullally received the Vatican’s congratulations and best wishes. Mullally’s nomination was approved by King Charles III, who congratulated him.