The Diocese of Canterbury and Canterbury Cathedral are delighted to play a part in today’s announcement of Bishop Sarah Mullally as the 106th Archbishop of Canterbury.
We look forward to welcoming Bishop Sarah into our community and to working closely with her in shared ministry.
Today’s announcement is truly momentous. Bishop Sarah is the first woman ever to be appointed Archbishop of Canterbury in the role’s 1,400-year-history, and we celebrate this significant moment in the life of the Church of England, the worldwide Anglican Communion and the Diocese of Canterbury.
A message from Bishop Rose
"Friends, Sisters and Brothers, I am delighted to be speaking to you on the day in which Downing Street has announced that the 106th Archbishop of Canterbury will be The Rt Revd Sarah Mullally.
"Today we have witnessed history in the making, the first woman ever to be appointed to this role which has been in existence for over 1400 years. This is a significant moment for the Church of England, the Worldwide Anglican Communion and the Diocese of Canterbury.
"On your behalf and that of the whole diocese of Canterbury, I extend the warmest of welcome to her and the family. I look forward with great anticipation in our shared ministry together, as we seek to proclaim in words and deeds, God’s transforming love.
"I want to pay tribute to all those who have been involved in the nomination process: locally in our diocese; those nationally; and from the wider Anglican Communion; for their commitment, their diligence and prayerfulness which has led to the appointment of Bishop Sarah.
"Please join me in praying for the 106th Archbishop and her family and friends."
A message from Dean David
"Well, you know the old saying, 'good things come to those who wait'. Well, now we know the 106th Archbishop of Canterbury is to be Sarah Mullally, the current Bishop of London.
"And we are thrilled here with this news, this momentous news, because, of course, it will be the first time that we will have a female Archbishop. And that speaks to us about the inclusive nature of God, and indeed of the Church moving forward with confidence into the 21st century, where little boys and little girls growing up these days can aspire to every role and office, including that of the Archbishop of Canterbury.
"We look forward to welcoming Bishop Sarah and her family here, to praying with her, to supporting her in her ministry in this diocese, across the nation, and in her work across the Anglican Communion.
"And of course, there will be a big day here in Canterbury when she is installed into that very significant seat of St Augustine as she becomes part of this story, dating way back to 597AD and a way on future into the decade that lies ahead.
"Every blessing to Sarah. And we couldn't be more pleased that we are to have Archbishop Sarah, Archbishop of Canterbury."
To watch the recording of today’s announcement in Canterbury Cathedral, including Bishop Sarah's first message as Archbishop Designate, see the Archbishop of Canterbury YouTube channel.
As part of her introduction to our diocese, Bishop Sarah will be making pastoral visits to a school, church, and charities in our area.
Find out more about Bishop Sarah, and please join us in welcoming and praying for the 106th Archbishop, her family and friends.