In Conversation with Cherry Vann, Archbishop of Wales
The recent election of Dame Sarah Mullaly as the new Archbishop of Canterbury was front-page news, marking her as the first woman ever to hold that position. However, less publicized is the fact that Cherry Vann was elected Archbishop of Wales in July 2025, becoming the first woman Archbishop in the UK and the first in the Anglican Church worldwide to be in a civil partnership with a woman.
Cherwell spoke with Archbishop Cherry Vann ahead of her official enthronement on 8th November 2025 to discuss her appointment, education, ministry, and the Church’s relationship with politics.
Music and Ministry in Oxford
Having experienced Oxford’s rich choral and chapel traditions, Archbishop Vann appreciates the profound atmosphere music creates in worship spaces. She draws on her past experiences to inform her ministry, recognizing chapels not only as places of worship but also as centers for welfare and artistic expression.
"You don’t have to analyse it or explain it. It engages emotions and the deep worlds of spirituality in often surprising and unexpected ways."
Church and Politics
Archbishop Vann engages thoughtfully with the role of the Church in political discourse, emphasizing the importance of understanding and dialogue rather than confrontation.
Summary
Cherry Vann’s groundbreaking election symbolizes progress in the Anglican Church, blending tradition with modern values through her unique personal and spiritual journey.
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