Archbishop of Canterbury announced as Church Urban Fund Co-President

Church Urban Fund (CUF), England’s social action charity, warmly welcomes The Most Reverend and Right Honourable Dame Sarah Mullally DBE, Archbishop of Canterbury, as Co-President.

Archbishop Sarah joins The Most Reverend and Right Honourable Stephen Cottrell, Archbishop of York, to lead the charity in its mission to tackle poverty and exclusion.

The Archbishop of Canterbury recently shared her reflections on the value of Christian social action, and its part in building the Kingdom of heaven on earth. She prayed for CUF’s work, and for God to “water it and nourish it, that it may flourish from a mustard seed into that wonderful tree that provides support and shelter for so many.” Archbishop Sarah has often spoken on issues of poverty and justice in London, the UK and around the world, and her church ministry and nursing career demonstrate her commitment to building justice for all.

Archbishop Stephen recently voted in favour of a Synod motion to reinvigorate the Church’s mission to address poverty, and has also supported CUF’s Growing Good movement, which has mobilised over 3,000 Christians to explore discipleship and social action in their churches and communities.

Archbishops Sarah and Stephen are committed to the work of Church Urban Fund (CUF) in its mission to build communities where the spiritual and material needs of people across the country are met, and where everyone feels connected, valued, and loved.

Archbishop Sarah and Archbishop Stephen said:

“We are delighted to serve together as Co-Presidents of Church Urban Fund. CUF’s vision — for a society where everyone can access the resources, confidence, and community they need to thrive — reflects the very heart of the Church’s mission to love God and our neighbours. At a time when many communities continue to face poverty and isolation, it is vital that churches are equipped and encouraged to respond with compassion, hope and practical action. Church Urban Fund plays a crucial role in enabling this work across England. We warmly encourage churches and individuals to pray for and support CUF’s mission.”

CUF’s CEO, Bishop Rob Wickham said: “We are thrilled to announce Archbishop Sarah’s Co-Presidency. Archbishop Sarah will join Archbishop Stephen in this vital role, supporting our mission to tackle poverty in all its forms, and give a voice to those living in poverty. Having worked with Archbishop Sarah, I can attest to her passion, compassion, commitment and strength. We hope our partnership encourages more churches and people to consider how they too can work together in the spirit of hope and reconciliation.”