Introducing The Most Rev. Sarah Mullally, Archbishop of Canterbury
Francis, Potomac and editor-in-chief of The Living Church, presents an introduction to the new Archbishop of Canterbury.
New Leadership in the Anglican Communion
On many Sundays, during prayers for church leaders, the Archbishop of Canterbury—the spiritual head of the Anglican Communion—is named first. In early October, the Church of England announced that Bishop Sarah Mullally of London would become the new Archbishop. She is the first woman to hold this office since its establishment in 597 with St. Augustine’s arrival in Kent. Her ministry will begin in late January.
Background and Career
Bishop Mullally was raised in a churchgoing family in a London suburb. Before entering ministry, she pursued a career as an oncology nurse. At age 37, she became Chief Nursing Officer for the UK’s National Health Service and earned an O.B.E. for exceptional nursing service.
Her nursing and administrative experience is widely recognized, making her an effective leader known for her compassion and attentive listening. She is married to Eamonn, and they have two children.
Journey to Ministry
Choosing ministry as a second career, Mullally led several parishes before being consecrated as one of the Church of England’s first women bishops in 2015. Three years later, she was appointed to lead the Church’s largest and most diverse diocese. Despite holding center-left views, she gained the confidence of many prominent conservatives.
“She unexpectedly won the trust of most of its prominent conservatives, despite her center-left views.”
Author’s Summary
Sarah Mullally’s unique blend of healthcare leadership and pastoral care equips her as a groundbreaking and unifying Archbishop of Canterbury.