Role of the Archbishop of Canterbury
Martin Davie writes about the announcement of the Bishop of London, Dame Sarah Mullally, to be the next Archbishop of Canterbury, and the frequent references to the Archbishop as the 'head of the Church of England' or the 'head of the Anglican Communion.'
However, Davie argues that both statements are misleading, and that the Archbishop's roles in the Church of England and the Anglican Communion are limited.
Definition of 'Head'
When discussing the concept of 'head', it is essential to understand the analogical language being used, drawing a comparison between the role of the head in the human body and the role of an individual in an organization.
What do we mean by 'head?'
- The term 'head' is used to describe a leadership role, but its meaning must be clearly understood in the context of the Church of England and the Anglican Communion.
Author's summary: The Archbishop of Canterbury's role is often misunderstood.