Sarah Mullally has been confirmed as the first woman Archbishop of Canterbury. This marks a historic change in the nearly 500-year history of the Church of England. She was officially appointed during the Confirmation of Election ceremony at St Paul's Cathedral in London on January 28, 2026. The Church of England started in 1534 when King Henry VIII broke away from the Roman Catholic Church. This was after the Pope refused to annul Henry's marriage to Catherine of Aragon. Since then, the Church has mixed Catholic traditions with Protestant beliefs. It has seen many changes, including the English Civil War, the production of the Book of Common Prayer, and the King James Bible. The Church kept its formal structure but shifted its theology. Over time, it also faced challenges like abuse scandals and debates over women and LGBT+ roles. Sarah Mullally, a nurse and administrator by training, now leads the Church at a time of decline in attendance, internal conflicts, and a need to regain public trust. The appointment was made by King Charles III and conveyed through Prime Minister Keir Starmer, highlighting England’s unique blend of church and state. While many celebrate this milestone, some conservative Anglicans worldwide oppose it. The Vatican issued a neutral statement. Mullally inherits a Church facing tough issues but also a chance to reshape its future. Her leadership is seen as a fresh start for an institution born from a king's bid for divorce. "Some of them have been very good, some of them have been pretty bad," said a Canterbury tour guide referring to past Archbishops. "I hope it doesn't happen to this one."