Historic Choice: Britain Poised for First Female Archbishop of Canterbury
For the first time in history, the Archbishop of Canterbury, leader of the Church of England and 85 million global Anglicans, could be a woman. This follows reforms allowing female bishops, and frontrunners include three prominent women. The decision impacts the Church's global stance on women's roles and same-sex relationships.
Britain is set to appoint a new Archbishop of Canterbury on Friday, a move that could see a woman lead the Church of England for the first time in its long history. The Church, the spiritual heart of the global Anglican community of 85 million people, may mark a new era with this appointment.
This potential shift follows reforms initiated under former leader Justin Welby, resigned amid a scandal, that opened episcopal roles to women. Three women bishops are leading the race to succeed him, including Rachel Treweek, Guli Francis-Dehqani, and Sarah Mullally.
A female Archbishop would signify substantial progress in gender equality within the Church. However, it may also intensify debates over same-sex relationships and women's positions in ecclesiastical roles, posing challenges to unifying the global Anglican community amid varying theological views.
(With inputs from agencies.)
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