On Friday 3 October, the Diocese of Canterbury marked an historic moment as Bishop Sarah Mullally, the Bishop of London, was confirmed as having accepted the invitation to become the next Archbishop of Canterbury.
As part of her introduction to our diocese, Bishop Sarah made visits to a school, church, and charities in our area. Huge thanks go to All Saints Church, the Canterbury Food Larder, the Archbishop’s School and Pilgrims Hospices who hosted the visits and extended a very warm welcome at short notice.
As her current diocese has noted, Bishop Sarah has served the Diocese of London for seven years, and her leadership has been marked by compassion, clarity, and a deep commitment to both clergy and lay communities.
The Bishop of Dover extended a warm welcome to Bishop Sarah, and The Bishop of Ebbsfleet noted her long track record of gracious engagement.
Bishop Sarah (now Archbishop Designate) will continue her work in London over the coming months.
We will publish the formal timetable in due course, but the formal Installation at Canterbury Cathedral is expected to take place in March 2026.
It would be impossible to note the significance of events on Friday without noting the contribution of our colleagues, led by David Monteith at Canterbury Cathedral, and the incredible work (and stamina) of Orla and Ben from the Media and Engagement team. We should also note, with deep thanks, the work done by teams at Lambeth Palace and at Church House to bring together what was a joyous occasion.
I also want to pay particular tribute to Bishop Rose and her team led by Richard Braddy, Helen, Fiona and Tommy for all they did and will do in the coming months.
Bishop Sarah’s leadership has been shaped by a background in nursing and public service and her elevation to Archbishop of Canterbury is not only a personal milestone but a landmark moment for the Church of England.
Preparations have already begun as we ready ourselves to support the Archbishop Designate. In the meantime, the Diocese of Canterbury joins the wider Church in giving thanks for Bishop Sarah’s ministry and in praying for her as she prepares to take on her new role.
Iain Blythe
Diocesan Secretary