Sarah Mullally Makes History as First Female Archbishop of Canterbury Leading the Church of England

Sarah Mullally, a former nurse who served as England's Chief Nursing Officer in the early 2000s, has made history as the first woman appointed to lead the Church of England.

The British government announced on Friday that Mullally will become the new Archbishop of Canterbury, marking a groundbreaking moment in the church's 1,400-year history.

In this role, Mullally not only leads the Church of England but also serves as the ceremonial head of approximately 85 million Anglicans worldwide. Her appointment may potentially deepen theological divisions with more conservative branches of the Anglican communion, particularly in African nations.

This historic appointment follows reforms implemented 11 years ago that made it possible for women to hold this prestigious office. As the 106th Archbishop of Canterbury, Mullally breaks the gender barrier in one of the last remaining areas of British public life exclusively led by men until now.

For the global Anglican community, about two-thirds of whom reside in countries like Nigeria, Kenya, and Uganda, the selection of a female Archbishop could further highlight differences with the mother church in England.

The 63-year-old Mullally brings unique experience to the role, having worked in healthcare leadership before entering the clergy. She has been known for advocating an open and transparent church culture that accommodates difference and disagreement.

Mullally once reflected on her dual vocations in a magazine interview, saying: "There are great commonalities between nursing and being a priest. It's all about people, and sitting with people during the most difficult times in their lives."

In accordance with the Church of England's status as the established church, Prime Minister Keir Starmer's office announced the appointment with King Charles's formal consent.

As monarch, Charles holds the position of supreme governor of the Church of England, a role established during the 16th century when King Henry VIII separated from the Catholic Church.

The Church of England had been without leadership since November of last year, when Justin Welby resigned amid a child abuse cover-up scandal.