UK to Appoint New Archbishop of Canterbury, Women Among Final Candidates

The UK will announce the next Archbishop of Canterbury on Friday, potentially marking the first time a woman leads the Church of England. The role, which carries global influence over the Anglican Communion’s 85 million members, has never been held by a woman in its more than 1,400-year history.
This development follows reforms that allowed women to become bishops a decade ago. Leading candidates include Bishop Rachel Treweek, Bishop Guli Francis-Dehqani, and Bishop Sarah Mullally. Bishops Martyn Snow and Pete Wilcox are also being considered.
The new Archbishop will face ongoing divisions over issues such as same-sex marriage and the role of women in ministry. Some believe these should not be points of division, as Scripture offers clear guidance. Church leaders are ultimately called to uphold the principles and precepts found in the Word of God. If leadership moves away from this foundation, it risks representing values not rooted in biblical truth.
Many are hopeful that this appointment will help re-establish what is right in the sight of God. However, with key voices such as Prime Minister Keir Starmer involved in the selection process, there is concern that political or cultural considerations may influence a role that should ultimately reflect spiritual conviction and scriptural authority.
The selection process included representatives from across the Church and the global Anglican Communion, with formal approval from the Prime Minister and King Charles III. A ceremonial installation is expected in the coming months.