Women’s History Month comes to an epic conclusion

March, Women’s History Month, comes to an epic conclusion, with the groundbreaking installation of Sarah Mullally to the office of Archbishop of Canterbury. Mullally is the first woman to hold this position in its 1,400-year-history.

The Rev. Karen Georgia Thompson, General Minister and President of the United Church of Christ, who knows what it is like to be “the first” — becoming the first woman and first Black woman to lead the UCC, elected in 2023, was present at this monumental event.

Thompson, who is also President of the World Council of Reformed Churches, elected in the fall of 2025, witnessed history in the making alongside the Prince and Princess of Wales and representatives from across the worldwide Anglican community.

Thompson posted pictures from Canterbury on her Facebook page, writing how she was “deeply moved by many women present representing many areas of life including clergy — bishops, heads of churches, moderators, etc. The church celebrated.”

Here are scenes from Canterbury.

The Rev. Karen Georgia Thompson, first woman and first Black woman to lead the United Church of Christ, was in England on March 25 to celebrate another historic first: the installation of Sarah Mullally as the first female Archbishop of Canterbury.
Rev. Karen Georgia Thompson caught up with many women leaders in ministry during installation celebration, such as the Rev. Peggy Kabonde (center), the first women to serve as General Secretary for the United Church of Zimbabwe.
Also joining Rev. Karen Georgia Thompson at the installation service was (pictured from left), Natasha Klukach, Acting General Secretary for Global Christian Forum, and Councillor Keji Moses, Lord Mayor of Canterbury.
Also attending the ceremony which was held in Canterbury Cathedral was the Rev. Tessa Henry-Robinson (pictured right), former moderator, United Reformed Church.
A look inside Canterbury Cathedral’s ancient arches.

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Categories: United Church of Christ News

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