Praying for the Archbishop-Designate of Canterbury
The Anglican Community of St Mark (ACM) warmly welcomes The Right Reverend and Right Honourable Dame Sarah Mullally as Archbishop-designate of Canterbury. Her nomination as the 106th Archbishop of Canterbury marks a historic moment for the Church of England, as she becomes the first woman to be called to this office.
We give thanks for her years of faithful service as Bishop of London, and earlier in nursing and public life. Her experience, wisdom, and pastoral heart equip her to lead the Communion in challenging times.
As she prepares to assume this vital role, we call on all ACM members, partners, congregations, and friends to join in prayer for her. We especially encourage prayer around the words of St Paul:
“Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace. There is one body and one Spirit, just as you were called to one hope when you were called; one Lord, one faith, one baptism; one God and Father of all, who is over all and through all and in all.” (Ephesians 4:3–6)
At a time when the Communion seems most fragile, we call upon her to make every effort to seek a way forward that will welcome, make room for, and celebrate those who increasingly feel isolated or side-lined because of their commitment to the historic formularies of the Anglican Church to which they have devoted their lives.
As she leads the English Province in a time of turmoil, and the Worldwide Communion as a whole, may she champion and defend the historic faith with courage and clarity, serving as an Instrument of Unity and Communion for the good of the whole Church. May she seek to listen more than to speak, as Scripture exhorts us: “Let every person be quick to listen, slow to speak, slow to anger.” (James 1:19)
We pray that Archbishop-designate Mullally may be sustained by the Holy Spirit, granted wisdom and courage, and strengthened to hold together the worldwide Communion with grace and clarity. May she lead with integrity and compassion, fostering unity in diversity, creativity and imagination, and encouraging the Church to be faithful to its Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ.
We commend her to your prayers now and in the days ahead, asking that God’s grace and peace accompany her in this calling. May her leadership be a blessing to the Church and a witness to the hope of the Gospel.
In Christ’s service,
Rev Fraser McDermott
National Chair of the Anglican Community of St Mark, New Zealand (ACM)
CollectAlmighty God,the giver of all good gifts,who by your Holy Spirit appoints leaders in your Church:grant to your servant Sarah grace and courageto champion and defend the historic faith,to be an Instrument of Unity and Communion,and to shepherd your people in truth and compassion;that your Church may be built up in holiness and love,fostering unity in diversity, creativity and imagination,and your name glorified in all the earth;through Jesus Christ our Lord.Amen.
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