Full Breakdown
Dame Sarah Mullally's Historic Pilgrimage Ahead of Installation as Archbishop of Canterbury
3/14/2026, 8:41:28 PM
Overview of the Pilgrimage
Dame Sarah Mullally, the newly appointed Archbishop of Canterbury, is set to undertake a six-day pilgrimage from St Paul’s Cathedral in London to Canterbury Cathedral, covering a distance of 87 miles along the Becket Camino. This journey, which begins on March 18 and concludes on March 22, is significant as it marks the first time in modern history that an Archbishop of Canterbury has embarked on such a pilgrimage prior to their installation service, scheduled for March 25.
Journey Details and Spiritual Significance
Accompanied by her husband Eamonn, Dame Sarah will walk through the Kent countryside, stopping at various churches, cathedrals, and abbeys, including Southwark Cathedral, Aylesford Priory, the Shrine of St Jude in Faversham, Lesnes Abbey, and Rochester Cathedral. The pilgrimage is described as a form of "spiritual preparation" for her upcoming installation, during which she will formally assume her role as the leader of the Church of England. Throughout the journey, the group will participate in prayer services and engage with local communities, schools, and ecumenical organizations.
Dame Sarah expressed her feelings about the pilgrimage, stating, "As I prepare for my installation at Canterbury Cathedral, it feels deeply humbling to be following in the footsteps of those who have walked this ancient route." She emphasized the importance of reflecting on the tradition of pilgrimage, noting, "For centuries, faithful pilgrims have flocked to Canterbury."
Official Statements and Responses
The pilgrimage culminates in a ceremonial installation at Canterbury Cathedral, where Prince William, representing King Charles III, will attend the historic event. This ceremony will not only mark Dame Sarah's official start as the 106th Archbishop of Canterbury but also her first sermon in this capacity. She has indicated that she will use this opportunity to pray for the Church and the world, stating, "Every Christian life is a pilgrimage - a journey with God."
Criticism and Opposition
While the pilgrimage is largely viewed as a positive and historic event, some critics have raised concerns regarding the Church of England's handling of safeguarding issues. Dame Sarah has acknowledged these challenges, asserting the need to confront the "dynamics of power" within the Church.
Verbatim Quotes
- “As I prepare for my installation at Canterbury Cathedral, it feels deeply humbling to be following in the footsteps of those who have walked this ancient route.” — Dame Sarah Mullally, Archbishop of Canterbury
- “As I walk this path I will be praying for our Church and our world, and asking God to bless those we meet.” — Dame Sarah Mullally, Archbishop of Canterbury
Conclusion
Dame Sarah Mullally's pilgrimage represents a significant moment in the history of the Church of England, highlighting both her personal journey and the broader tradition of pilgrimage. As she prepares for her installation, her commitment to engaging with communities and addressing critical issues within the Church underscores her leadership approach as the first female Archbishop of Canterbury.
