Dame Sarah Mullally named as first female Archbishop of CanterburyThe role has been vacant for nearly a year since Justin Welby announced his resignationView 2 Images Dame Sarah Mullally has been named Archbishop of Canterbury (PA) (Image: PA Archive/PA Images)Dame Sarah Mullally has made history by becoming the first female Archbishop of Canterbury in the Church of England's long-standing tradition. Previously serving as the chief nursing officer for England, Dame Sarah is now the designated Archbishop of Canterbury, with a legal ceremony anticipated in the upcoming months to officially confirm her as the Church's leading bishop. Dame Sarah is set to legally become the Archbishop of Canterbury in a ceremony at Canterbury Cathedral in January, with a formal enthronement service to follow where members of the Royal family are expected to attend. In her inaugural visit as archbishop-designate, Dame Sarah lent a hand at a local church on Friday, helping to pack food parcels ahead of the official announcement. At the time, Mr Welby said he was stepping down "in sorrow with all victims and survivors of abuse".