New Archbishop Mullally Starts 87-Mile Pilgrimage to Canterbury

Dame Sarah Mullally, the new Archbishop of Canterbury, began an 87-mile pilgrimage on Tuesday from St Paul's Cathedral in London to Canterbury Cathedral, marking a historic journey as the first woman to hold the Church of England's highest office and the first in modern times to undertake such a trek ahead of her enthronement.

Accompanied by her husband, Eamonn, Mullally departed in mild weather under bright sunshine, dressed in walking boots and carrying a staff. She was seen off by cheering schoolchildren and tourists outside the cathedral. Before setting out, a service of blessing occurred in the cathedral's quire, where prayers were offered for the safety of those on the trip. Mullally presented a shell as a symbol of pilgrimage and expressed gratitude for the support she would receive along the way.

The six-day walk follows the ancient Becket Camino route, during which Mullally plans to stop at churches, cathedrals, and abbeys for prayer services, meet fellow pilgrims, and visit schools and ecumenical organizations. Key stops include Southwark Cathedral, Aylesford Priory, the Shrine of St Jude in Faversham, Lesnes Abbey, and Rochester Cathedral. The Dean of Canterbury,...