When the chips are down, what qualities do you look for in a leader? Someone who can offer a stirring speech or a strategic vision might spring to mind. But when a storm comes, there is something to be said for a calm voice and a firm hand on the tiller. And with this morning’s historic announcement that Sarah Mullally, the Bishop of London, is to be our 106th Archbishop of Canterbury, that is exactly what the Church of England has chosen.
Bishop Sarah is not an evangelical. She has previously led on the Living in Love and Faith process, and described the vote in 2023 to approve same-sex blessings as a "moment of hope for the Church" noting that there were prayers "within that suite that I would use". But she has always been aware of the differences of opinion across the Church of England on this, and other, issues, adding "I know that what we have proposed as a way forward does not go nearly far enough for many but too far for others."
In her diocese she is well known for attending services at parishes, where on grounds of theological conviction, they are unable to receive the ministry of women bishops or priests, despite her not being able to fully participate in services. She is gracious in seeking to bring unity, even at personal cost. She is committed to ensuring there is a space and a place in our church for everyone, showing this with actions as well as words, holding both people and process central.
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