Historic appointment reshapes Anglican leadership
The Church of England made global headlines by naming Dame Sarah Mullally, 63, as the 106th Archbishop of Canterbury. The former chief nurse becomes the first woman to hold the communion’s senior post, ending a year-long vacancy after Justin Welby’s resignation.
South Sudanese Anglicans voice doctrinal caution
Archbishop Justin Badi Arama of the Episcopal Church of South Sudan acknowledged the milestone yet labelled the new leadership ‘unbiblical and unorthodox’ because of Mullally’s open support for blessing same-sex couples, restating his province’s commitment to traditional teachings on marriage.
Global South Fellowship stance remains firm
In a formal letter, Badi confirmed continued alignment with the Global South Fellowship of Anglican Churches and the GAFCON renewal movement. Both blocs argue that scriptural authority outweighs evolving cultural norms, and they distance themselves from recent liberal turns in London.
Prayerful solidarity despite disagreement
Despite theological friction, Badi pledged prayers for the Church of England and expressed hope for future dialogue. Observers note that such language preserves communion ties while signalling that disciplinary measures, like withholding recognition, remain possible if doctrinal gaps widen.
Fault lines and prospects for unity
Analysts trace current tensions to differing social contexts: rising conservative pews in Africa contrast with liberal currents in parts of Europe and North America. Whether Mullally’s pastoral style eases disagreement or deepens division will shape the Anglican Communion’s next decade.