In a pivotal address to the General Synod of the Church of England, Sarah Mullally, the newly appointed Archbishop of Canterbury, committed to transforming the church’s approach to allegations of abuse. Mullally’s declarations come in the wake of significant failures that led to the resignation of her predecessor, Justin Welby, and underline a renewed focus on safeguarding vulnerable individuals within the church’s communities.
A Call for Independence and Transparency
Mullally, who stepped into her role 14 months after Welby’s departure, articulated her vision of “proper independence” in handling abuse allegations. This commitment is seen as crucial in addressing the historical shortcomings of the church’s internal processes, which have often been scrutinised for their lack of transparency.
During her address, Mullally emphasised that safeguarding must be regarded as a “fundamental, non-negotiable responsibility” of the church, shaped by previous failings and the ongoing work required to support victims and survivors. “We have too often failed to recognise or take seriously the abuse of power in all its forms,” she stated, reinforcing the need for robust and transparent protocols around appointments and the management of complaints.
Acknowledging Past Failings
The church’s recent history is marred by controversy, particularly regarding the case of John Smyth, a former barrister whose abusive actions prompted widespread criticism of church leadership. Mullally’s predecessor, Justin Welby, faced intense backlash for his inadequate response to allegations that surfaced in 2013, ultimately leading to his resignation.
In light of this, Mullally called for a serious commitment to listening to victims and implementing trauma-informed processes. “We must be willing, always, for light to be shone on our actions and decisions,” she remarked, highlighting the necessity for the church to rebuild trust through openness and integrity.
Navigating Challenges as a Female Leader
Mullally’s elevation comes at a time when a significant segment of the global Anglican community remains opposed to the ordination of women. Thus, her leadership will not only be a test of her capabilities but also of the church’s willingness to embrace change. As a former NHS chief nursing officer, Mullally brings a wealth of experience in care and compassion to her role.
In her remarks, she expressed her desire to lead with calmness, consistency, and compassion, indicating her commitment to serving the church while confronting the pressing issues of inequality, injustice, and the ongoing climate crisis. “The theme that has run through all those chapters of my life has been washing feet, and serving and caring for others,” she reflected, underscoring her mission to embody service in her leadership.
Why it Matters
Mullally’s appointment as the first female Archbishop of Canterbury represents a significant juncture for the Church of England amid a broader reevaluation of its handling of abuse allegations. Her promises of independence, transparency, and a focus on safeguarding reflect a necessary shift towards accountability and healing. As the church grapples with its past, Mullally’s leadership will be pivotal in determining whether it can restore faith among congregants and the wider community in its commitment to protecting the most vulnerable.