Introducing The Most Rev. Sarah Mullally, Archbishop of Canterbury
On many Sundays, during the Prayers of the People, the faithful remember their church leaders by name, starting with the Archbishop of Canterbury, the spiritual head of the Anglican Communion.
In early October, the Church of England announced that Bishop Sarah Mullally of London was chosen as the new Archbishop of Canterbury. She is the first woman to hold this historic office, tracing its origins back to St. Augustine’s arrival in Kent in 597. Her ministry is set to begin in late January.
Early Life and Career
Bishop Mullally was raised in a churchgoing family in the London suburbs. Her first career was in healthcare as an oncology nurse. By the age of 37, she became the Chief Nursing Officer for Britain’s National Health Service and received an O.B.E. for her contributions to nursing.
Transition to Ministry
After years of service in healthcare, Mullally pursued theological training and entered ordained ministry as a second career. She served in several parishes before being consecrated as one of the Church of England’s first female bishops in 2015.
Leadership in the Church
Three years after her consecration, she was appointed to lead the Church of England’s largest and most diverse diocese. Despite her moderate and center-left views, she gained the respect of many conservative members through her empathy and administrative skill.
“Her professional background has made her an exceptionally skilled administrator, known for her compassion and attentive leadership.”
She and her husband, Eamonn, have two children and remain active in church and community life.
Author’s Summary
Sarah Mullally’s journey from nursing to leading the Anglican Communion reflects her rare blend of compassion, competence, and resilient faith in service to the Church of England.