On October 3, 2025, Sarah Mullally was announced as the 106th Archbishop of Canterbury, marking a historic milestone as the first woman to lead the Church of England. At 63, Mullally succeeds Justin Welby, who resigned in January 2025 amid a safeguarding scandal. Her appointment follows reforms enacted in 2014, allowing women to serve as bishops within the Church. Mullally's selection was confirmed by the Crown Nominations Commission and ratified by Prime Minister Keir Starmer and King Charles III, reflecting the monarch's role as the Church’s supreme governor.

Mullally's tenure as Archbishop of Canterbury is set to commence in January 2026, following her enthronement at Canterbury Cathedral. She will also assume a seat in the House of Lords as a Lord Spiritual. As the spiritual leader of the Church of England and the global Anglican Communion, which comprises approximately 85 million members, Mullally faces the challenge of unifying a denomination experiencing theological divisions, particularly regarding the roles of women and LGBTQ+ individuals.

Born Sarah Elisabeth Bowser on March 26, 1962, in Woking, Surrey, Mullally pursued a career in nursing before transitioning into ministry. She served as England's Chief Nursing Officer from 1999 to 2004 and was consecrated as Bishop of Crediton in 2015. In 2018, she became the Bishop of London, the Church's third-highest office. Mullally has been recognized for her commitment to service and compassion, values she aims to bring to her new role.

Her appointment is seen as a step toward addressing internal divisions within the Church and restoring trust following recent controversies. Mullally's leadership is anticipated to guide the Church through a period of reflection and renewal.

Sources: Reuters, AP News, The Guardian