Justin Welby’s installation as archbishop of Canterbury last week was traditional, but his rise to lead the world’s 77 million Anglicans was anything but.
Justin Welby’s installation as archbishop of Canterbury last week was traditional, but his rise to lead the world’s 77 million Anglicans was anything but.
The Eton-educated former oil executive didn’t become a priest until 36, then used his business moxie to grow a succession of dying congregations.
While preaching a strong commitment to Christianity, he also trekked through the world’s hot spots, including Nigeria, promoting conciliation.
He’ll need those skills when dealing with a fractious Church, split on issues like gay marriage and female bishops.
As pundits have quipped, today’s religious leaders need to be “Jesus Christ with an M.B.A.” The Anglicans may have found just that.