Sarah Mullally makes history as first-ever female Archbishop of Canterbury

The UK has appointed Sarah Mullally, Bishop of London and former nurse, as a female Archbishop of Canterbury in a historic first.

The announcement comes after a year since Justin Welby resigned from the role as spiritual leader of the Church of England on the grounds of safeguarding the scandal.

The recent appointment marks the first time in nearly 500 years of history that the Church of England nominated a woman for a leadership role.

With the historic appointment, Mullally, who was named as the 106th Archbishop of Canterbury, has also become the ceremonial head of some 85 million Anglicans globally.

Church reforms were introduced nearly 11 years ago when in 2014 were allowed to hold the office as bishop.

The new Archbishop of Canterbury, Dame Sarah Mullally, referred to this huge responsibility in her first statement.

"I want, very simply, to encourage the Church to continue to grow in confidence in the gospel, to speak of the love that we find in Jesus Christ and for it to shape our actions,” Sarah said.

She continued, "And I look forward to sharing this journey of faith with the millions of people serving God and their communities in parishes all over the country and across the global Anglican Communion.”

"I know this is a huge responsibility but I approach it with a sense of peace and trust in God to carry me as He always has,” the newly appointed Archbishop added.

Mullally, 63, became a priest in 2006. She held the office as the first female Bishop of London in 2018.

British Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer commented on Mullally's appointment, "I welcome the appointment of The Right Reverend and Right Honourable Dame Sarah Mullally D.B.E as the new Archbishop of Canterbury and the first woman to hold the role.”

"The Church of England is of profound importance to this country. Its churches, cathedrals, schools, and charities are part of the fabric of our communities,” he added.