The Archbishop of Canterbury, Most Rev. Justin Welby, will not participate in any public Advent or Christmas services this year as he prepares to conclude his tenure. His final day in office will coincide with the Feast of the Epiphany on January 6, 2025.
In a statement released on Wednesday, Lambeth Palace announced that Archbishop Welby will spend the Christmas season privately with his family. The decision follows his November announcement of his resignation, citing failures in the Church’s handling of abuse allegations linked to the late barrister John Smyth.
During the transition period, the Archbishop of York, Most Rev. Stephen Cottrell, will assume many of Archbishop Welby’s responsibilities. Additionally, oversight of the 30 dioceses under the Canterbury jurisdiction will shift to the Bishop of London, Rt. Rev. Dame Sarah Mullally. The Bishop of Dover, Rt. Rev. Rose Hudson-Wilkin, will oversee the Diocese of Canterbury.
For decades, the Archbishop of Canterbury has delivered the traditional Christmas Day sermon at Canterbury Cathedral. This year, however, Archbishop Stephen Cottrell’s sermon is expected to take center stage. Archbishop Welby will also forgo the customary televised New Year message, which is set to resume next year with the appointment of his successor.
The BBC confirmed the change, stating, “The New Year message will return in 2025 with the new Archbishop of Canterbury.”
Archbishop Welby’s resignation marks the end of an era, with his tenure characterized by efforts to foster reconciliation and navigate the Church through challenging social and global issues.
