Cherry Vann: Eight things to know about UK’s first female, lesbian archbishop

The election of Cherry Vann as the UK’s first female and lesbian archbishop isn’t just another church appointment, but a defining moment for religion, identity, and inclusion.

Cherry Vann’s emergency seems like a turning point, and not just for the Church in Wales, but for leadership in faith communities.

Vann’s election proves that experience, empathy, and integrity, not gender or sexuality, are what truly define a spiritual leader.

And at a time when many people feel alienated from institutional religion, the UK’s first female archbishop may be just the kind of leader who can rebuild the bridge.

Here are seven key facts you should know about Cherry Vann:

Early life

Vann was born on 29 October 1958 in Whetstone, Leicestershire, England and studied piano and violin at the Royal College of Music.

She became an Associate of the Royal College of Music (ARCM) diploma in 1978 and a graduate of the Royal Schools of Music (GRSM) diploma in 1980. In 1986, Vann entered Westcott House, Cambridge, an Anglican theological college. There, she studied theology and undertook training in preparation for ordination for the next three years.

First Woman Archbishop in UK history

While the Church of England started ordaining women as bishops in 2015, no woman had ever reached the top of the hierarchy, archbishop level, in any of the Anglican provinces in the UK.

Cherry Vann’s election by the Church in Wales in 2025 smashed that stained-glass ceiling.

First Openly Lesbian Archbishop

Vann has been open about her sexuality for years and lives with her civil partner, Wendy. She hasn’t hidden who she is, and her election sends a bold message: sexual orientation is not a disqualifier for spiritual leadership.

In a religious space where LGBTQ+ clergy often feel compelled to stay silent or closeted, her visibility is both courageous and groundbreaking.

Cleric with over 30 Years of service

Vann was ordained in 1994, the very first year the Church of England allowed women priests. She’s served in several leadership roles: Archdeacon of Rochdale (2008–2020) – responsible for church governance in a large region of Greater Manchester.

Bishop of Monmouth (2020–present) – where she built a reputation for pastoral care and principled decision-making.

Her long experience means she didn’t get this job as a “diversity hire.” She’s battle-tested.

Elected amid Church scandal

Vann takes over after the resignation of Archbishop Andrew John, who left under a cloud of controversy over his handling of safeguarding failures at Bangor Cathedral.

Though John wasn’t personally accused, his leadership was seen as failing to prevent a toxic culture involving bullying and inappropriate conduct.

So Vann is walking into a church in crisis, expected to restore integrity, rebuild morale, and re-earn the trust of congregants.

Love for music

Vann trained at the Royal College of Music in London, which adds a creative layer to her pastoral work. Music has long played a role in Anglican liturgy, so having a leader with artistic sensibilities could help revive worship practices and better connect with younger generations.

Known for empathy and resolve

She has often been described as pastorally sensitive – She listens, comforts, and supports people through pain and transition.

Morally firm; She doesn’t flinch when it’s time to take tough decisions.

She once said, “Being kind doesn’t mean being weak.” And that seems to sum up how she leads.

Potential advocate for major LGBTQ+ reforms

The Church in Wales allows blessings for same-sex couples but still doesn’t permit full marriage ceremonies in church.

While she won’t single-handedly rewrite doctrine, her presence gives momentum to those pushing for inclusive change, and her leadership style suggests she’ll do it with both courage and consultation.

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