As the Church of England prepares for the selection of its next Archbishop of Canterbury, speculation is rife about who might be chosen to lead the Anglican Communion’s most prestigious position.
The current Archbishop of Canterbury, Justin Welby, is set to retire in 2022, sparking a search for his successor. The process of selecting the next Archbishop is a complex one, involving consultation with various stakeholders and a final decision made by the Crown Nominations Commission.
One name that has been frequently mentioned as a potential candidate is the Right Reverend Sarah Mullally, the Bishop of London. Mullally, who was appointed to her current position in 2018, is highly regarded for her progressive views and commitment to social justice issues. If chosen, she would be the first woman to hold the position of Archbishop of Canterbury, a significant milestone for the Church of England.
Another possible contender is the Right Reverend Stephen Cottrell, the Archbishop of York. Cottrell, who was appointed to his current role in 2020, is known for his strong leadership and pastoral skills. He has spoken out on a range of issues, including climate change and the importance of inclusivity within the church.
Other potential candidates include the Right Reverend Christopher Cocksworth, the Bishop of Coventry, and the Right Reverend Vivienne Faull, the Dean of York. Both Cocksworth and Faull are respected figures within the Anglican Communion and have extensive experience in church leadership.
Ultimately, the selection of the next Archbishop of Canterbury will be a decision of great importance for the Church of England and the wider Anglican Communion. The chosen candidate will be tasked with leading the church through a period of significant change and uncertainty, as well as addressing pressing social and moral issues facing society.
Whoever is chosen as the next Archbishop of Canterbury, they will undoubtedly face challenges and opportunities in equal measure. With the church’s influence and relevance under constant scrutiny, the selection of a new leader is a decision that will be closely watched by both church members and the wider public.