Newly appointed Sarah Marley, the first woman to lead the 106th Archbishop of Canterbury and the global Anglican Communion, has pledged to be humble, united and cultivate “confidence in the gospel.”
Speaking in London, the London Bishop recalls her journey from nurse to priest, saying that her Christian profession has always been shaped by acts of service. “Washing my feet has shaped my Christian profession as a nurse, a priest, and a bishop,” Marary said. “In the clear chaos surrounding us, in the midst of such deep global uncertainty, the possibility of healing lies in acts of kindness and love.”
Marley emphasized that her ministry as an archbishop was plagued by the hopes of Jesus Christ and lived in communities around the UK and around the world. She cited local parish work in food banks, schools, hospitals and prisons as evidence of her faith in the workplace.
“In all of this, I see hope, because I see the man of Jesus Christ and reach out to all of us,” she said. “In an age of longing for certainty and tribalism, British nationalism offers something quiet and strong: shaped by shared history, tensions and prayers, illuminated by the glory of Christ.”
She spoke of her recent visits to Anglican congregations in Brazil, Canada and Barbados, explaining how familiar rhythms of worship in various contexts reflected shared identity. “The shared inheritance of history, worship families, sacraments and words was a reality with global diversity,” she said.
The next archbishop acknowledged the complex moral and political issues facing Britain and the wider world, including debates about dying, immigration, poverty and war. She referenced Thursday’s fatal attack on the Manchester synagogue, saying the church is obliged to endure all forms of anti-Semitism and hatred.
“I know that God with us draws us closer to those who suffer,” she said. “As a church, we are responsible for being people who stand with the Jewish community opposed to all forms of anti-Semitism. No type of hatred and racism can be torn apart us.”
She named her in Ukraine, Russia, Sudan, Myanmar, the Democratic Republic of the Congo and the Middle East, and spread her prayers across conflict zones around the world. “May God end the fear of war, comfort those who mourn, and bring hope to those who live in despair,” Marary said.
Mullally also addressed the ongoing conservation crisis of the Church of England, acknowledged past failures and pledged to cultivate a culture of accountability.
“As a church, we have failed to recognize or take any form of misuse of power seriously,” she said. “My commitment is to continue to listen to survivors, take care of vulnerable people, and ensure that we cultivate a culture of safety and happiness for all.”
She said that protection must be entirely responsible, but she has particular weight on senior leaders. “Our history protecting failure leaves behind a legacy of deep harm and mistrust, and we all must be willing to shed light on our actions, regardless of our role in the Church.”
Mullally said he intends to serve as a shepherd who helps others flourish, regardless of tradition. “The role I will be doing next year is something I can do together,” she said, highlighting the need to work with the archbishops of York, fellow bishops and the Anglican Church of Communion.
She acknowledged the historical nature of her appointment as the first woman to lead the Church of England and the Church of England around the world. “Some people ask what it means for women to lead the Church of England and assume the archbishop of Canterbury’s global role,” she said. “I’m going to be a shepherd that will allow everyone’s ministry and profession to flourish.”
He expressed his gratitude to those who paved the way for women in the appointed ministry. “Today, I am grateful to all women and men – lying down and ordained. Deacons, priests, bishops – paved the way for this moment,” she said.
Seeing her legacy, Marary said she hopes to instill more confidence in the church and the Church of England gospel. “I humbly offer myself and serve the gifts and experiences that God has given me to serve the world of God and His church,” she said. “I don’t always get things right, but I am encouraged by the poem salist, “If you stumble, don’t fall straight ahead, but the Lord will cut you off with your hand.” ”
She concluded with a prayer in 2026 as she prepared to do her part.
Mullally officially took office to confirm the election at St. Paul’s Cathedral in January 2026, and will be set up at Canterbury Cathedral in March.
