New Archbishop of Canterbury Commits to Independent Abuse Handling to Restore Trust
Sarah Mullally, the newly appointed Archbishop of Canterbury, has made a firm pledge to rebuild trust and confidence in the Church of England's handling of abuse allegations against children and vulnerable adults. Addressing the Church's ruling body, the General Synod, in London, Mullally acknowledged that the institution has "fallen tragically short" in the past and emphasized that "proper independence" will be central to future abuse investigations under her leadership.
Addressing Past Failures and Ensuring Transparency
The Church of England has faced significant criticism for its internal handling of abuse allegations and related complaints. Mullally's predecessor, Justin Welby, resigned over substantial failings in managing a high-profile abuse case involving John Smyth, a former barrister who sadistically assaulted boys and young men. A damning report revealed that Welby failed to act appropriately after learning of the allegations in 2013.
Mullally, who took over as de facto leader fourteen months after Welby's departure, was met with applause and cheers from Synod members. She stated that safeguarding is a "fundamental, non-negotiable responsibility, sharpened by our past failings and shaped by the work we still have to do." She committed to an "approach of grave seriousness and focused direction to all matters relating to safeguarding in all contexts in the church," placing victims and survivors at the "heart of all we do."
Commitment to Robust Processes and Victim-Centered Approach
In her address, Mullally highlighted the need for robust and transparent processes within the Church. She noted, "We have too often failed to recognise or take seriously the abuse of power in all its forms. Robust and transparent processes are central to the health of any institution; proper processes around appointments; clear guidelines around conduct; and good process for the handling of concerns, complaints and whistleblowing."
She added, "Progress has been made, yet we are anything but complacent. We must be wholly committed to listening to victims and survivors, and to delivering timely and robust trauma-informed processes. We must be willing, always, for light to be shone on our actions and decisions. We can only begin to rebuild trust and confidence through openness and integrity."
Personal Challenges and Leadership Vision
Mullally's elevation to archbishop was not without controversy. Last year, it emerged that she had been accused of improperly handling a complaint against a priest in London in 2020, with allegations that it was not adequately investigated. However, the Church of England recently announced it would take no further action on the matter.
Expressing humility, Mullally said she is aware of the "huge weight of responsibility" that comes with her role and has been "overwhelmed by the encouragement, prayers and support ... from countless people both here at home and across the [global] Anglican Communion." As the first female leader of the global Anglican church, she faces opposition from some Anglicans in the UK and worldwide who oppose women's ordination as priests.
A Shepherd's Promise and Broader Mission
A former NHS chief nursing officer, Mullally told the Synod, "as a shepherd, I will strive to be calm, consistent and compassionate to all." She reflected on her Christian vocation, which led her from nursing to priesthood, then to bishop, and now to archbishop, stating, "The theme that has run through all those chapters of my life has been washing feet, and serving and caring for others."
Looking ahead, Mullally urged the church to "flex the muscle of hope" in the face of global challenges. She said, "It should not 'deny the challenges that are in front of us – the challenges of inequality and injustice, the volatility of global politics, climate crisis and more – but say with confidence that God is in the midst of us.'" Her leadership aims to foster a culture of accountability and care, ensuring the Church of England moves forward with renewed integrity and purpose.
