Church of England Overturns Centuries of Tradition by Doing This...

Phil Noble : Dec 17, 2014
Charisma News/Reuters

Archbishop of Canterbury, Justin Welby, spiritual head of the Church, said she was a "wonderful choice."

(United Kingdom)—The Church of England appointed its first female bishop on Wednesday, overturning centuries of tradition in a Church that has been deeply divided over the issue. (Photo via Charisma News)

It named Reverend Libby Lane, a 48-year-old married mother of two, as the new Bishop of Stockport in northern England.

Prime Minister David Cameron tweeted: "Congratulations to Rev. Libby Lane on becoming the first woman bishop in the Church. An historic appointment and important day for equality."

Archbishop of Canterbury, Justin Welby, spiritual head of the Church, said she was a "wonderful choice."

After long and heated debate, the Church of England governing Synod voted in July to allow women to become bishops and formally adopted legislation last month.

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