Cherry Vann has been announced as the new Archbishop of Wales.
She becomes the first female leader of the church in Wales, replacing Andrew John who retired following a turbulent period.
Originally from Leicestershire, she has been Bishop of Monmouth since January 2020, and was the first woman ordained as a priest in the Church of England in 1994.
Mr John announced his decision to retire with immediate effect in June following the publication of two summaries highlighting safeguarding concerns and misbehaviour at Bangor Cathedral.
Before serving in Monmouth, Ms Vann spent 11 years as Archdeacon or Rochdale, in the Diocese of Manchester.
She has also held senior positions in the governance of the Church of England, including as a member of the Archbishops’ Pastoral Advisory Group, which has provided resources for churches to help them offer a genuine welcome to LGBTQ+ people.
In her biography, she was described as having “a passion for justice and reconciliation”.
She is also a “talented pianist”, and an associate of the Royal College of Music and a graduate of the Royal Schools of Music.
She is described as living with her civil partner Wendy and their two dogs.
Vann was chosen after the Electoral College met at St Pierre Church and Hotel in Chepstow.
