Document
To
The Rt. Rev. and Rt Hon Dame Sarah Mullally
The Bishop of London
Geneva, 3 October 2025
“Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God`s grace in various forms.” 1 Peter 4: 10.
Dear Bishop Mullally,
On behalf of the World Council of Churches I extend our warm congratulations to you on your historic nomination as Archbishop of Canterbury. It is with joy and hope that we witness this moment in the life of the Church of England, as we give thanks and celebrate your nomination to this position of sacred responsibility.
From your early years in nursing, through your service as Chief Nursing Officer for England, to your ordination and your episcopal ministry as Bishop of Crediton and then Bishop of London, you have embodied faithful leadership marked by service, compassion, and integrity. You have been a “faithful steward of God`s grace in various forms.”
As the first woman to serve in this important role, may your leadership help the Church to listen deeply – especially to those who have suffered, to the borderlines of doubt, to the many voices often unheard – and to build anew trust where it has been broken.
You take up this great responsibility at a challenging time. May God grant you wisdom, courage, humility, and patience for the times ahead.
May the Gospel more than ever be the center: the love of God in Christ, shaping not only words but our collective actions.
I look forward to your installation at Canterbury Cathedral in March 2026, and to your service for the whole ecumenical fellowship.
With respect, gratitude, and prayers,
Yours in Christ,
In Christ,
Rev. Prof. Dr Jerry Pillay
General secretary
World Council of Churches
