Overview
- Dame Sarah Mullally legally assumed office at a Confirmation of Election service at St Paul’s Cathedral and will be enthroned at Canterbury Cathedral on March 25.
- Proceedings were briefly interrupted by a heckler who was escorted out, and Archbishop of York Stephen Cottrell noted that no lawful objections had been received.
- Mullally pledged to speak out about misogyny and to strengthen safeguarding, including pursuing greater independence in safeguarding and improvements to the clergy discipline measure at next month’s General Synod.
- A recent complaint about her handling of an abuse allegation in the Diocese of London was dismissed in January, though the complainant may appeal.
- Conservative Anglican leaders, including in Nigeria and Rwanda, criticized her appointment, underscoring continuing divisions over women’s episcopal leadership and LGBTQ issues across the Communion.