Faith
Spiritual Divisions Test Anglican Unity as New Leader Emerges
Dame Sarah Mullally has been formally installed as the 106th Archbishop of Canterbury, marking a historic shift in the Church of England’s 1,400-year lineage.
The ceremony took place at Canterbury Cathedral, drawing global leaders to witness the beginning of her ministry over the 85-million-member Anglican Communion.
Reflecting on her journey as a former nurse, Mullally incorporated modern symbolism alongside ancient tradition.
She used the Good Shepherd theme throughout the service, carrying a pastoral staff while wearing a vestment clasp made from her original NHS belt buckle.
Faith Facts
- Archbishop Mullally opened her first sermon quoting Luke 1:37, declaring that nothing is impossible with God.
- The installation utilized the Saint John’s Bible Heritage Edition for the oath, rather than the fragile 6th-century Augustine Gospels.
- While her appointment faces challenges from groups like Gafcon over theological divisions, her supporters look toward her leadership for healing and stability.
During the service, the Archbishop emphasized our need to mirror the faithfulness of Mary by trusting in the mystery of the Incarnation.
She reminded the congregation that the hope of the Church is found in ordinary people who have the audacity to believe in God’s extraordinary promises.
"May we have the audacity to believe in the promises of God. For with Him, nothing will be impossible."
She also addressed the need for restorative justice and compassion within the Church following past institutional failures.
Her message called for a renewal of confidence in the Gospel to provide love and healing to a world currently torn by war and division.