In a historic and controversial move, Bishop Sarah Mullally has been appointed as the first female Archbishop of Canterbury. This decision, however, has not been universally welcomed across the global Anglican community, with significant opposition emerging particularly from the Church of Nigeria. The appointment is seen by some as a step away from traditional teachings, further deepening existing rifts within the Church of England.
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The Church of Nigeria has openly opposed this appointment, describing it as a “devastating” departure from biblical teachings. Their statement highlights concerns about Mullally’s support for same-sex marriage and questions the theological implications of female leadership within the church hierarchy.
Archbishop Henry C. Ndukuba of the Church of Nigeria emphasized the disconnect between Mullally’s appointment and the deeply held beliefs of many Anglicans who do not support female headship. This sentiment was underscored by a statement from GAFCON (Global Anglican Future Conference), which echoed the sentiment that Mullally’s leadership would exacerbate divisions within the 85 million-member Communion.
Laurent Mbanda, Chairman of GAFCON’s Primates Council, expressed his disapproval by stating that the Church of England has “chosen a leader who will further divide an already split Communion.” He argued that Mullally’s theological stance contradicts her ordination vows and deviates from traditional Church teachings on marriage and sexual morality.
Mbanda further referenced Anglican Article XX, which specifies that the Church should not ordain anything contrary to God’s Word. He contended that Mullally’s support for prayers blessing same-sex relationships conflicts with this doctrine. The GAFCON leadership had hoped for a unifying figure to lead the Church but now sees the current leadership as incapable of healing longstanding fractures.
The Church of Nigeria, one of the largest Anglican provinces globally, has reiterated its commitment to uphold biblical teachings despite what it sees as a revisionist agenda within the Church of England. It has also called on members who oppose same-sex marriages to remain firm in their faith.
Looking ahead, GAFCON plans to strengthen its leadership among orthodox Anglican bishops during its upcoming G26 Bishops Assembly in Abuja, from March 3–6, 2026. This assembly is anticipated to be the most significant gathering since the movement’s inception in 2008.
This article was originally written by www.christianpost.com
