Installation of the 106th Archbishop of Canterbury

The Installation of the 106th Archbishop of Canterbury, Sarah Mullally, will take place at Canterbury Cathedral on Wednesday 25 March 2026, the Feast of the Annunciation.

Historically known as an enthronement, the Installation marks the symbolic start of the Archbishop of Canterbury’s public ministry in the Church of England and across the Anglican Communion.  

Rooted in centuries of tradition, the service will look forward with the hope of Jesus Christ - and celebrate the diversity of the Church of England, the nation and the Anglican Communion today.  

Profile of Dame Sarah Mullally in foreground stained glass of Canterbury Cathedral in background

Archbishop Sarah will be installed on the Cathedral Chair (Cathedra) as the Diocesan Bishop of the See of Canterbury, the oldest diocese in the English church. Following this, she will be installed on the Chair of St Augustine (St Augustine Cathedra) as Primate of All England, which also symbolises her ministry in the Anglican Communion. 

The Feast of the Annunciation celebrates the day the Angel Gabriel told Mary she would be the mother of Jesus.

Details about the Installation service will be shared in the lead up to the service.

Bishop Sarah remains Bishop of London until her Confirmation of Election at St Paul’s Cathedral on 28 January 2026, at which she will legally become the Archbishop of Canterbury.

Until then, as well as preparing to begin her ministry as Archbishop, Bishop Sarah is fulfilling her remaining commitments as Bishop of London.

First published on: 27th October 2025
Page last updated: Monday 27th October 2025 10:51 AM
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