The editorial office reports that for the first time, a woman has been appointed to lead the Anglican Church in England. 63-year-old Sara Mallalli has opened a new page in the country's religious history by taking over the position of Archbishop of Canterbury. Prior to this, she served as Bishop of London for eight years and previously held the position of England's chief nurse.
New Archbishop Mallalli begins her tenure at a time when the Anglican Church is shaken by sexual abuse scandals. Her predecessor, Justin Welby, resigned after being criticized for failing to report a sexual assault committed by a volunteer at a youth camp to the police in a timely manner. UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer congratulated Mallalli, stating his belief that she will “play a significant role in the spiritual life of the church and the country.”
Bishop of York Stephen Cottrell, meanwhile, described the new appointment as “the arrival of a leader full of courage, integrity, and knowledge.” In her speech, Mallalli said: “This is a great responsibility, but I accept this role with my faith in God and my certainty that He will give me strength.” She will lead the Anglican Church, which has over 85 million members in 165 countries.