Introducing The Most Rev. Sarah Mullally, Archbishop of Canterbury
On many Sundays, during the Prayers of the People, believers mention 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 would become the new archbishop.
She is the first woman to hold this historic office, which dates back to St. Augustine’s arrival in Kent in 597. Her formal ministry is set to begin in late January.
Early Life and Career
Bishop Mullally was raised in a devout family in the London suburbs. Before her ordination, she built a successful career in healthcare as an oncology nurse. By the age of 37, she became the Chief Nursing Officer for Britain’s National Health Service.
She was appointed Officer of the Order of the British Empire (O.B.E.) for her distinguished contributions to nursing.
Her medical and leadership experience shaped her reputation as a capable administrator and an empathetic listener. She and her husband, Eamonn, have two children.
Path to the Episcopate
Following her nursing career, Mullally trained for ministry as a second vocation. She led several parishes before being consecrated in 2015 as one of the Church of England’s first female bishops. Three years later, she was appointed to lead the church’s largest and most diverse diocese, where she earned the trust of many conservatives despite her generally centrist views.
Author’s Summary
Sarah Mullally’s journey from nurse to archbishop reflects a blending of compassion, leadership, and faith that redefines the Anglican Church’s traditions in a modern era.