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Dame Sarah Mullally, set to become the first female Archbishop of Canterbury later this month, has centered her initial New Year’s message on the significant challenges faced by the healthcare system and the vital role of comprehensive, community-focused services. Drawing on her background as a nurse within the NHS, she emphasized the close connection between good healthcare and her Christian faith, highlighting Jesus’ teaching to love and care deeply for others.
She pointed out that community support could address the underlying causes behind many hospital admissions and noted that social and palliative care services are currently under considerable strain. Dame Sarah sees such holistic care as not only crucial but complementary to medical treatment, underscoring the importance of churches hosting regular community lunches. These gatherings, she said, are sometimes just as vital for physical and mental wellbeing as clinical interventions and can provide opportunities for health checks.
Reflecting on her experiences at St Thomas’ Hospital, where she originally trained, Dame Sarah shared how the hospital chapel offers a peaceful refuge for both staff and patients. The multi-faith chaplaincy team there supports people by listening, praying, or simply being present through difficult times. Nearby, children’s hospital staff use play therapy to reduce anxiety and aid recovery for young patients. She sees local community efforts in her London diocese, such as those at SAINT church in Hackney, as shining examples of holistic care in action—providing warmth, healthcare, and the love exemplified by Jesus.
Dame Sarah’s formal installation as the 106th Archbishop of Canterbury will take place at Canterbury Cathedral on 28 January. She was selected to succeed Justin Welby, who stepped down following criticism over his handling of an abuse scandal. While the Church of England is reviewing a complaint related to Dame Sarah’s own handling of an abuse allegation, her role as Archbishop will position her as the Church’s most senior bishop and spiritual leader of the worldwide Anglican Communion, with King Charles remaining the Church’s official head of state
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