New Archbishop of Canterbury Acknowledges Abuse of Victims and Survivors in First Sermon
Sarah Mullally has been formally installed as the spiritual head of the Church of England in a grand ceremony, where she delivered her first sermon, acknowledging the pain caused to victims and survivors of abuse within the church. Making history as the first female Archbishop of Canterbury, Mullally emphasized the need for truth, compassion, justice, and action in addressing past failures.
Historic Installation and Sermon Highlights
During the installation, traditionally called an enthronement, Mullally, who turns 64 this Thursday, became the de facto leader of the Church of England and the global Anglican church, which spans 165 countries with 85 million members. In her sermon, she stated, "We must not overlook or minimise the pain experienced by those who have been harmed through the actions, inactions and failures of those in our own Christian churches and communities." She added, "Today and every day, we hold victims and survivors in our hearts and in our prayers, and we must remain committed to truth, compassion, justice and action." This comes after her predecessor, Justin Welby, resigned amid criticism for mishandling allegations against John Smyth, a prolific abuser in the church.
Ceremony Details and Distinguished Guests
The ceremony at Canterbury Cathedral was attended by 2,000 guests, including the Prince and Princess of Wales representing the King, Prime Minister Keir Starmer, and Opposition Leader Kemi Badenoch. The congregation also featured over 100 representatives from Anglican provinces worldwide and nearly 150 ecumenical partners, such as the Roman Catholic, Eastern Orthodox, and Coptic Orthodox churches. To honor her background as a former nurse, Mullally invited nurses and carers from hospitals and hospices in Canterbury.
The service, held on the Feast of the Annunciation, followed Mullally's six-day pilgrimage on foot from St Paul's Cathedral in London to Canterbury. She shared, "Each day my heart and spirits were lifted immeasurably by the people young and old we encountered, even though my aching feet and limbs tell a different story." The ceremony began with processions of bishops, clergy, and global representatives, followed by the reading of a mandate from the King, the supreme governor of the Church of England.
Rituals and Symbolic Moments
Mullally wore a golden cope and a ceremonial mitre, using the silver buckle from her nurse's belt instead of a traditional morse. In an ancient ritual, she knocked three times on the cathedral's great west door with her pastoral staff, seeking admission. Upon entry, she was greeted by local schoolchildren and declared, "I am Sarah, a servant of Jesus Christ, and I come as one seeking the grace of God, to travel with you in his service together." Later, she made a declaration affirming her faith and commitment to authorized forms of service.
After signing an ecumenical document, witnessed by representatives of other churches, Mullally shook hands with men and hugged women, a striking moment in the 90-minute service where women played a prominent role. The solemnity was punctuated by vibrant performances from the mainly-female African Choir of Norfolk, singing in Swahili, with readings and prayers in multiple languages including Urdu, Spanish, and Bemba.
Installation and Reflections
Mullally was led to the 13th-century Chair of St Augustine, near the shrine of St Thomas Becket, and formally installed as primate of all England by the cathedral's dean. The congregation applauded, and Mullally appeared visibly moved. Attendees were invited to contribute to a collection supporting the cathedral's maintenance, which costs £30,000 daily.
In a BBC interview marking her installation, Mullally reflected on her historic role, saying, "Once I try and get my head round being the archbishop, I recognise the significance of being the first female archbishop, but I am also aware of the women who have supported me in my ministry, and also the men as well." She noted the service deliberately featured women's voices throughout, celebrating women and inspiring others to pursue their dreams. On safeguarding, she emphasized, "light should be shone" on the church's actions, stating that senior leaders should face greater scrutiny.
