Mullally wanted to bring a deeply human dimension to this momentous event. “I think I’m just Sarah,” she told the BBC. Indeed, Mullally has an atypical profile compared to her predecessors, who came from more traditional and academic paths: she was the former head of nursing in Britain’s National Health Service and the former bishop of London. She has said her hospital experience shaped the way she relates to others: listening, being available, and speaking an understandable language are the pillars of her ministry.

At a time when religious institutions are seeking to rebuild trust, the new Archbishop aims for leadership that is less distant and more rooted in people’s everyday lives. In many ways, this is in keeping with the modus operandi of the Prince of Wales.

In February, Sarah was supported during the presentation ceremony in the House of Lords by the Archbishop of York, Stephen Cottrell, and the Bishop of Peterborough, Debbie Sellin. After that ceremony, Mullally said, “I commit to bringing a compassionate voice to my role as an advocate for equity, justice and hope.” She added that she wanted to draw on her pastoral and health care experience to work on legislation that improves the lives of all, believers and non-believers alike.

A ceremony that celebrated the contribution of women in the church

During the ritual, Mullally followed centuries-old traditions. She arrived at the West Door of Canterbury Cathedral and knocked three times with her crozier, symbolically asking permission to enter. Welcoming her were some students, whom she addressed with simple but emblematic words: that she had been “sent to serve,” to proclaim Christian love and share faith with the community.

Inside, the ritual continued with an oath taken by Mullally laying her hand on St. John’s Bible, a precious illuminated manuscript used for the first time on this occasion. She was then seated on the historic Episcopal Chair and later on the 13th-century chair of St. Augustine.