Sarah Mullally was named on Friday as the first female head of the Church of England, marking a historic moment for the 1,400-year-old office. However, her appointment as Archbishop of Canterbury immediately drew criticism from conservative Anglicans, particularly in Africa, who remain opposed to the ordination of women as bishops.

As Archbishop, Mullally will also serve as the ceremonial leader of 85 million Anglicans worldwide, a role that will require her to navigate deep divisions between conservative factions, especially in Africa, where homosexuality is criminalized in some countries, and more liberal congregations in the West.

Making her first address in Canterbury Cathedral, the 63-year-old former career nurse acknowledged the challenges ahead, condemning both the sexual abuse scandals that have plagued the Church and the rise of antisemitism, referencing Thursday’s attack on a synagogue in Manchester that killed two men.

“I intend to be a shepherd who enables everyone’s ministry and vocation to flourish, whatever our tradition,” Mullally said, directly addressing those who may object to her leadership.

Her appointment follows reforms introduced 11 years ago that opened the way for women to take the top post. Since 2018, she has served as Bishop of London and has championed liberal reforms, including blessings for same-sex couples.

GAFCON, a global coalition of conservative Anglican churches, criticized the decision, saying it showed the English church had “relinquished its authority to lead.”

Mullally pledged to prioritize safeguarding reforms in light of recent abuse scandals, promising to “listen to survivors, care for the vulnerable, and foster a culture of safety.”

Before entering the clergy, Mullally had a distinguished career as a cancer nurse, rising to England’s Chief Nursing Officer in the early 2000s, while also being ordained as a priest in 2002. She was among the first women consecrated as bishop in 2015.

“She brings unity, gentleness, and strength, exactly what the Church, and the nation, needs right now,” said Linda Woodhead, professor of theology at King’s College London.