Mullally, 63, was made Bishop of London in 2018 – the Church of England’s third most senior bishop after the archbishops of Canterbury and York. A damning independent report found that by 2013 the Church of England “knew, at the highest level,” about Smyth’s abuse, including Welby, who became archbishop that year. The Archbishop of Canterbury is the most public face of an institution that has struggled to stay relevant in a more secular nation. In her new role, Mullally will lead efforts to address declining church attendance, including reaching younger people, and to confront financial challenges. It is, however, King Charles, the Supreme Governor of the Church of England, who formally makes the appointment.