I would like on behalf of the Ebbsfleet Network to offer our congratulations to the Bishop of London, Sarah Mullally, on her nomination to be the next Archbishop of Canterbury.

The appointment of an Archbishop who is a woman will be a significant milestone for our denomination and for the wider Anglican Communion. It presents particular challenges for those who have a complementarian understanding of Scripture, and the roles of men and women in ministry; but Bishop Sarah has a long track record of gracious engagement, and real understanding of the particular theological convictions we hold. I have no doubt she will continue to work hard to enable the Five Guiding Principles to be upheld with a clear conscience, and in a way that ‘contributes to mutual flourishing across the whole Church of England.’

There is a need to maintain the integrity of my role as a complementarian bishop, called to serve resolution churches across the whole country, yet with a legal title in the Diocese of Canterbury. I am confident from my past experience of working with Bishop Sarah in London, that we can work together to ensure my role upholds complementarian theological convictions and with appropriate spiritual oversight.

The challenges that we face as the Church of England are ultimately much bigger than our internal organisation—we have a call to serve our nation and to share the message of hope and good news of Jesus with all. The gospel commission is ultimately what unites us as a Church, with Christ as our head, and with the needs of the nation in our hearts.

Yours faithfully,
+Rob
Bishop of Ebbsfleet