Cherry Vann becomes first woman and LGBTQ+ cleric named archbishop in Britain

 

Bishop Cherry Vann has made history by becoming the first woman and openly LGBTQ+ cleric to be appointed as an archbishop in any of Britain's Anglican churches. Her election marks a significant milestone not only in the Church in Wales but across the global Anglican community. While other openly gay bishops have served in the Anglican Communion, including Gene Robinson in the U.S., Vann is the first openly lesbian archbishop worldwide. The Church in Wales announced her election on Wednesday following the resignation of her predecessor, Andrew John, in June. Vann's journey within the Church has spanned decades. She was one of the first women ordained as a priest in the Church of England in 1994. She later served as Archdeacon of Rochdale before moving to Wales, where she was appointed Bishop of Monmouth in 2020. Known for her inclusive stance, Vann is part of the Open Table Network, a Christian initiative offering worship and community for LGBTQ+ people. Her leadership is expected to bring a progressive voice to the Church. At 66, she now leads the Church in Wales at a time when it is dealing with internal challenges. In her first public statement, she emphasized the need to rebuild trust and address issues highlighted in recent reports about church governance and safeguarding.

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Cherry Vann has stepped into leadership during a delicate period for the Church in Wales. Her predecessor, Andrew John, resigned after two internal reports in May raised concerns about the church's governance and safeguarding practices. Though there were no allegations of misconduct against John, the church acknowledged the need for reform. Vann has made it clear that her first task will be to address those issues and ensure the church moves forward responsibly and transparently. As an openly LGBTQ+ leader, Vann’s appointment sends a powerful message of inclusivity. While the Church in Wales does not currently allow same-sex marriages, it permits clergy to enter into civil partnerships. Vann herself lives with her civil partner Wendy and their two dogs. Her public support for LGBTQ+ rights, combined with her religious leadership, bridges a gap between faith and equality that many have long hoped to see. Her affiliation with the Open Table Network further underscores her dedication to inclusion. This group creates space for LGBTQ+ people to engage in Christian worship without fear of judgment. Her election may inspire similar moves in other Anglican communities worldwide and potentially spark renewed discussion about equality and leadership within the global church. Vann’s leadership could mark the beginning of cultural and structural change within the Church in Wales, especially in addressing transparency, safeguarding, and modern inclusivity. Her unique background and clear commitment to reform may help guide the church through a period of rebuilding and progress.

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