A Statement of Congratulations on the 106th Archbishop of Canterbury
The Cathedral Church of St. John the Divine is overjoyed to celebrate the momentous news: The Rt. Rev. & Rt. Hon. Dame Sarah Mullally, Bishop of London, will be the 106th Archbishop of Canterbury.
She is the first woman to be named Archbishop of Canterbury, a powerful sign that the Spirit is cracking open the imagination of the Church to new possibilities.
This is an appointment that resonates deeply in New York, amplifying the power and prophetic nature of the Gospel in our time. As sibling dioceses, our relationship with the Diocese of London is not just one of historical affinity. It is a living, breathing bond of affection and a shared commitment to the work of justice in the world.
Bishop Sarah's journey is a testament to a life dedicated to healing the world, body and soul. From her profoundly compassionate work as a nurse, ultimately serving as the Chief Nursing Officer for England, to her ministry as a Bishop of London, she is a leader who knows the suffering of the world and the wisdom it demands.
Here, at the Cathedral Church of St. John the Divine, we have been blessed by Bishop Sarah’s presence more than once, grounding her global ministry in this great house of prayer for all people.
On Sunday, May 1, 2022, we were honored to formally welcome her and acknowledge her leadership by seating her in our international ecumenical cathedra. More recently, our connection was powerfully affirmed when Bishop Sarah traveled back to New York for the Installation of Bishop Matthew Heyd in February 2024.
We pray for Bishop Sarah as she prepares for her installation in March 2026. May the Spirit continue to move through her, guiding the Anglican Communion to be a loud and clear voice for liberation, justice, and the deep, abiding hope that is grounded in Christ.
Grace and Peace,
The Very Rev. Winnie Varghese
XII Dean, Cathedral Church of St. John the Divine