Dear Sisters and Brothers in Christ,
“Since it is by God’s mercy that we are engaged in this ministry, we do not lose heart.” 2 Corinthians 4:1.
Grace and peace to you.
It is a joy and a privilege as my time as Archbishop of Canterbury begins to write to the Bishops of the Anglican Communion.
At my Confirmation of Election in St Paul’s Cathedral, I was charged to work in partnership with my fellow Primates and Bishops of the Anglican Communion. I look forward to this shared ministry as we seek to be, not only disciples of our Lord Jesus Christ, but also his apostles, sent to share the good news of his love with all entrusted to our care. May the Lord be merciful to us and strengthen our hearts after the encouragement of the Apostle Paul.
The beginning of my new ministry coincides with the season of Lent and I have been reflecting that personally this feels like the most wonderful gift. Before he began his public ministry, Jesus chose to follow the lead of the Spirit into the wilderness to spend time doing ‘business’ with his Father. Through fasting, prayer, the confronting of temptations and feeding on Scripture, Jesus emerged renewed for ministry and completely determined to live out the will of God, no matter the cost.
I will spend time this Lent on retreat and pilgrimage as I prepare for my Installation in Canterbury Cathedral on the Feast of the Annunciation. I will be praying that you may know renewal, grace, and encouragement in your ministry this Lent. We all know the cost and burden of the episcopal calling as well as the deep joy that comes from the privilege we have of serving God’s people and the wider world.
I write simply to acknowledge the encouragement of our shared partnership in the Gospel and to recognise the significance of walking this path together, not least through Lent towards Easter as we prepare once again to celebrate the joy of the resurrection. Please pray for me as I pray for you.
I also commend to you this year’s Archbishop of Canterbury’s Lent Book, Dancing to the Heartbeat of God. I’m grateful for the many contributors from across the Communion. Their stories of discipleship, hospitality, courage, and generosity reflect the rich witness of our global family and offer inspiration for our shared life and mission.
May God who invites us into the dance of divine love strengthen us in hope, nurture us in faith, and deepen in all of us a spirit of hospitality as we bear witness to the mercy and love we find as followers of Jesus.
With every blessing in Christ,
The Most Reverend and Right Honourable Dame Sarah Mullally
Archbishop of Canterbury