Full Breakdown
Dame Sarah Mullally's Historic Pilgrimage Ahead of Installation as Archbishop of Canterbury
3/15/2026, 1:26:17 AM
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 (140 km) along the Becket Camino. This journey, which begins on March 18 and concludes on March 22, marks the first time in modern history that an Archbishop of Canterbury has embarked on such a pilgrimage prior to their installation, scheduled for March 25.
Journey Details and Significance
Accompanied by her husband Eamonn, Mullally will traverse the Kent countryside, stopping at various significant religious sites including Southwark Cathedral, Aylesford Priory, the Shrine of St Jude in Faversham, Lesnes Abbey, and Rochester Cathedral. The pilgrimage will involve prayer services at these locations, as well as visits to schools and ecumenical organizations. The final leg of the journey will see the Dean of Canterbury, David Monteith, join the group as they walk from Chartham to Canterbury, aiming to arrive in time for the evening service.
Mullally 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 that “for centuries, faithful pilgrims have flocked to Canterbury.”
Official Statements & Responses
In her remarks, Mullally highlighted the spiritual significance of the journey, saying, “As I walk this path I will be praying for our Church and our world, and asking God to bless those we meet.” She described every Christian life as a pilgrimage, a journey with God, and expressed gratitude for the opportunity to walk alongside others during this pivotal moment in her ministry.
Torin Brown, the pilgrim officer at Canterbury Cathedral, remarked on the honor of joining Mullally on her pilgrimage, indicating the journey's importance within the context of her upcoming installation.
Criticism & Opposition
While the pilgrimage has been largely well-received, some critics question the necessity of such a public display in a modern context, suggesting that the focus should be on the responsibilities of the role rather than ceremonial traditions. However, no specific dissenting voices were highlighted in the sources.
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
What's Next
Following the pilgrimage, Dame Sarah Mullally will be formally enthroned as the Archbishop of Canterbury on March 25, 2026, in a ceremony attended by notable figures including the Prince of Wales, who will represent the King. This event will mark the official commencement of her public ministry in the Church of England.
