Bishop's Letter: Archbishop of Canterbury

Dear Friends,

It is with joy and thanksgiving that I write to you today upon the appointment of The Right Reverend & The Right Honourable Dame Sarah Mullally as the 106th Archbishop of Canterbury. This is a historic moment as she becomes the first woman to hold the office of Archbishop of Canterbury. Her journey from nursing and public service to faithful episcopal ministry has been marked by compassion, wisdom, and a deep devotion to Christ’s call to serve.

This appointment, while a cause for rejoicing for many, will also bring challenges. Across our worldwide Communion, there are others who will struggle to receive this moment with the same gladness. These differences may strain our bonds of affection, and we must acknowledge honestly that some may feel their communion with Canterbury impaired.  Yet, in such moments, our calling is not to anxiety or division but to prayer and steadfastness in Christ. The unity of the Church is never of our making; it is the gift of God in Christ Jesus, who prays for us “that they may all be one” (John 17:21). We hold together not because we agree on every matter, but because we are bound by the love of Christ and the mission, he entrusts to us.

I urge you, therefore, to pray for Archbishop-designate Sarah: that she may be upheld by the Spirit in courage, patience, and grace as she takes up this heavy but holy calling. Pray also for the leaders and faithful of the Anglican Communion: that in our differences we may listen with humility, bear one another’s burdens, and continue to walk together as witnesses of Christ’s reconciling love.

This appointment reminds us that the Church’s unity is found not in uniformity of opinion but in the mercy and truth of the Gospel. May this new chapter strengthen us all to be a people of prayer, service, and reconciliation, so that the light of Christ may shine more brightly in the world.

With every blessing,

+Naboth