Vatican City – Pope Leo XIV has extended congratulations to Sarah Malalijah on her formal installation as the Archbishop of Canterbury, marking a historic moment for the Church of England and the wider Anglican Communion. The appointment, confirmed on March 25, 2026, signifies a major shift in leadership within the 85 million-strong global Anglican community.
The Pope’s message was delivered to Malalijah by Cardinal Kurt Koch, his special envoy. This gesture of goodwill underscores the ongoing dialogue and relationship between the Catholic Church and the Anglican Communion, despite historical divisions. The development comes as both denominations navigate evolving challenges and seek common ground on issues of faith and social justice.
Malalijah officially assumed her duties during a solemn ceremony at Canterbury Cathedral on March 25, attended by prominent figures including Prince William and Kate, the Princess of Wales, as well as numerous religious leaders. She is the first woman to hold the position of Archbishop of Canterbury in the Church of England’s 492-year history, a milestone that has sparked both celebration and debate within the church.
The 63-year-old mother of two, in her sermon, referenced women in the Bible who remained faithful to God even when facing uncertain futures. She emphasized the importance of seeking truth and justice within the Church. This focus on core values is seen as a potential guiding principle as she leads the Anglican Communion through a period of change.
Cardinal Koch similarly joined Malalijah in prayer at the Chapel of Our Lady of the Queen, a location steeped in history. They knelt on the same prayer bench used by Saint John Paul II and Archbishop Robert Runcie in 1982, symbolizing a continuation of ecumenical efforts. Following the liturgy, Cardinal Koch presented Malalijah with Pope Leo XIV’s letter of congratulations.
The Pope’s message acknowledged the “significant service and responsibility” that awaits Malalijah, not only within the Canterbury diocese but throughout the Church of England and the Anglican Communion. He specifically noted that she is assuming the role during a complex time in Anglican history and prayed that God would “strengthen her with the gift of wisdom.”
Malalijah succeeds Justin Welby, who stepped down from the position in November 2024. His departure followed scrutiny of how the Church had handled allegations of sexual abuse by clergy. The fresh Archbishop’s appointment is therefore viewed by some as an opportunity for renewal and greater accountability within the Church.
Pope Leo XIV’s letter also recalled a historic meeting between Pope Paul VI and Archbishop Michael Ramsey in Rome in 1966, describing it as the beginning of a “new phase of development in fraternal relations based on Christian charity.” He highlighted the contributions of the International Anglican-Catholic Theological Commission in fostering mutual understanding and expressed satisfaction that this dialogue continues, despite ongoing challenges. The Pope also referenced a joint visit by Pope Francis and Archbishop Welby to South Sudan in 2023, acknowledging the difficulties but emphasizing the importance of recognizing each other as brothers and sisters in Christ.
“Only in truth and love can we together recognize God’s grace, mercy and peace, and be able to offer these precious gifts to the world,” Pope Leo XIV wrote. He concluded by stating that Christian unity is not an end in itself, but a means to more effectively proclaim the Gospel.
