Church of England appoints first female Archbishop of Canterbury

Dame Sarah Mullally has become the first female Archbishop of Canterbury, marking a historic milestone in the nearly 1,500-year-old Church of England. Her appointment follows the resignation of Justin Welby amid safeguarding scandals, and she aims to lead the Church through healing and reform. With a distinguished background as the youngest ever chief nursing officer and the first female Bishop of London, Mullally is praised for her experience, calm leadership, and public service skills. Religious leaders and communities are optimistic her role will inspire more women in the Church and bring a fresh perspective to the global Anglican Communion. Despite some opposition from conservative Anglicans, her appointment has been welcomed by key figures including King Charles and Prime Minister Keir Starmer. Mullally has expressed a commitment to fostering ministry inclusivity and addressing the Church's legacy of harm and mistrust.