Dame Sarah Mullally has been enthroned as the first woman Archbishop of Canterbury in the 1,400-year history of the Church of England. Speaking at Canterbury Cathedral before a congregation of 2,000 people, including the Prince and Princess of Wales and Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer, she reflected that her teenage self could never have imagined reaching the Church’s highest office. The service included tributes to the contributions of women, with female bishops from Africa taking part in the procession.

During her sermon, Dame Sarah spoke about faith, trust and the example of Mary, saying her own journey began when she became a Christian at 16. She acknowledged ongoing opposition to women bishops in parts of the global Anglican community, but pledged to create space for difference while offering welcome and support to all.

She also addressed the legacy of abuse scandals within the Church, expressing sorrow for victims and committing to truth, justice and action. Dame Sarah replaces Justin Welby following his resignation and steps into the role as spiritual leader of the Church of England and the worldwide Anglican Communion at a time of both historic change and significant challenge.