Sarah Mullally confirmed as first female Archbishop of Canterbury, vows action on safeguarding and misogyny

The Church of England entered a new chapter on Wednesday, 28 January 2026, as Dame Sarah Mullally was formally confirmed as the 106th Archbishop of Canterbury, becoming the first woman in the role’s 1,400-year history. The historic Confirmation of Election took place at St Paul’s Cathedral, blending centuries-old legal tradition with a richly symbolic church service reflecting the global Anglican Communion.

Her confirmation comes at a critical moment for the Church, following the resignation of her predecessor Justin Welby, amid intense scrutiny over safeguarding failures and wider questions about leadership, accountability, and unity.

What the Confirmation of Election Means

The Confirmation of Election is both a legal and religious ceremony, during which the Archbishop-Elect formally assumes office. With this act, Sarah Mullally legally became Archbishop of Canterbury, taking up the Primatial Cross and delivering her first blessing in the role.

The service showcased the Church’s global reach, featuring readings in English and Portuguese, a South African Xhosa chant, gospel music from Christ’s Hospital School, and an anthem by Elgar performed by the Choir of St Paul’s Cathedral. Participants ranged from bishops and clergy to schoolchildren, reflecting the diversity of Anglican worship worldwide.

A Historic First for the Church of England

Sarah Mullally’s appointment marks a watershed moment. While women have been ordained as priests since the 1990s and bishops for over a decade, she is the first woman to lead the Church of England and the wider Anglican Communion.

In her address, Archbishop Mullally described her election as an “extraordinary and humbling privilege,” pledging to lead with calmness, consistency, and compassion. She emphasized hospitality, unity, and the importance of listening, especially to voices that have historically been ignored within the Church.

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Safeguarding and Accountability at the Centre of Her Agenda

Safeguarding is expected to define much of Archbishop Mullally’s early leadership. In a BBC interview following the ceremony, she acknowledged the heightened scrutiny on her record and said it was “right” for Church leaders to be held accountable.

“I commit myself to ensuring that we have independence and that the Church is a safer place for all,” she said, stressing that victims and survivors of abuse must never again feel overlooked.

Senior Church figures, including the Church of England’s lead safeguarding bishop, Bishop Joanne Grenfell, praised Mullally’s longstanding commitment to strengthening safeguarding systems and culture.

Speaking Out on Misogyny and Church Culture

Archbishop Mullally also pledged to speak openly about misogyny, drawing on her experiences both within the Church and her former role as England’s Chief Nursing Officer.

She said her position gives her a responsibility to raise issues others may feel unable to voice, committing to foster an environment “where all people can flourish and which is safer for all.”

Her leadership comes amid tensions within the Anglican Communion, with some traditionalist churches opposing her appointment on theological grounds, highlighting the delicate task of holding together a deeply diverse global Church.

What Happens Next for the New Archbishop

Although legally Archbishop as of January, Mullally’s public ministry will formally begin after her Installation at Canterbury Cathedral in March 2026, where she will preach her first sermon.

Before then, she will:

• Pay homage to the King, the Supreme Governor of the Church of England
• Co-preside at the General Synod in February, delivering her Presidential Address
• Meet leaders of other Christian denominations and faiths across the UK

Observers expect early debates to focus on safeguarding reform, Church governance, and unresolved issues such as same-sex blessings.

FAQ

Who is the new Archbishop of Canterbury?

Sarah Mullally, formerly Bishop of London and England’s Chief Nursing Officer, is the 106th Archbishop of Canterbury and the first woman to hold the role.

Why is Sarah Mullally’s appointment historic?

She is the first female Archbishop of Canterbury in the Church of England’s 1,400-year history.

Why did Justin Welby resign as Archbishop of Canterbury?

Justin Welby stepped down following criticism over his handling of information related to a prolific abuser and wider safeguarding failures.

What are Sarah Mullally’s priorities as Archbishop?

Her priorities include safeguarding reform, unity within the Anglican Communion, addressing misogyny, and restoring trust in Church leadership.

Has Sarah Mullally faced criticism over safeguarding?

Yes. Critics have questioned her role during past safeguarding cases, though the Church has stated there is no case to answer. Mullally has welcomed scrutiny and pledged stronger, more independent systems.

When will Sarah Mullally be officially installed?

She will be installed at Canterbury Cathedral on 25 March 2026.

What challenges does the new Archbishop face?

She faces divisions over theology, safeguarding reform, women’s leadership, and maintaining unity across a global Anglican Communion.