Dame Sarah Mullally, Bishop of London, has been appointed Archbishop of Canterbury — the first woman to lead the Church of England in its 500-year history. At a Religion Media Centre briefing, journalists and church leaders reflected on her qualities and achievements, outlining their hopes and expectations for her leadership.

Speakers described her style as “courageous” and “pastoral,” traits seen as vital for her role, as she inherits deep divisions over same-sex blessings, the difficult task of embedding and strengthening safeguarding processes, and resistance from those who doubt a woman can hold authority in the role.

In her first address, she pledged solidarity with the Jewish community after the Manchester attack, spoke of the church’s role in healing fractured communities, and acknowledged the church’s responsibility to wrestle with complex moral questions. Commentators stressed that, after the turmoil of Justin Welby’s departure, the new Archbishop must not only lead the church but also speak with moral clarity to the whole nation.

Rosie Dawson chaired the discussion with many speakers taking part: Tim Wyatt, Catherine Pepinster, Prof Helen King, Rev Dr Charlie Bell, Ven Miranda Threlfall-Holmes, Rev Martine Oborne, Rev Cathrine Ngangira, Rev Angela Sheard, Susie Leafe, Edward Nickell, Rev Dr Ian Paul, Rev Canon John Dunnett, Justin Humphreys, Peniel Rajkumer, Bishop Sophie Jelley and Winnie Varghese.

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