TL;DR
- Cherry Vann elected as the first female and openly lesbian Archbishop of Wales
- Marks a major milestone for LGBTQ+ representation in religious leadership
- Vann succeeds Andrew John amid church controversies
- Promises “healing and reconciliation” for the Church in Wales
- Her appointment is hailed as a turning point for inclusivity and stability
A New Queen Takes the Church Throne
The Church in Wales just got a whole lot more inclusive—and a whole lot more fabulous. Cherry Vann, who has served five years as Bishop of Monmouth, made religious history this week by becoming the first-ever female and openly lesbian Archbishop of Wales. Yes, you read that right—hell didn’t freeze over, but the stained-glass ceiling sure did shatter.
The 65-year-old Leicester-born trailblazer steps into the role at a rocky time for the Church, following the early exit of her predecessor Andrew John. His departure came after two damning reports into misbehavior and shady financial management at Bangor Cathedral. While John himself wasn’t directly accused of misconduct, the fallout left the Church rattled—and in desperate need of a leader who brings both clarity and compassion. Enter Cherry Vann.
“I’m here to bring healing and reconciliation,” Vann said, speaking with the calm gravitas of a seasoned cleric who’s been through a few stormy sermons. “My aim is to build a deep level of trust across the Church and its communities.” It’s not just clerical speak. Those who’ve worked with her say she brings steadiness and empathy to an institution that’s often been slow to change.
From Monmouth to Mother Superior
Vann’s promotion wasn’t exactly out of the blue. Before becoming Bishop of Monmouth in 2019, she spent over a decade as Archdeacon of Rochdale, where she was already known for her progressive values and deep-rooted faith. The Very Reverend Ian Black, Dean of Newport, summed up her appeal: “She has a deep faith, which is also open to those who take a different view. That openness has impressed many people enormously.”
The move is especially symbolic for LGBTQ believers—many of whom have long been marginalized by the very institutions meant to offer them spiritual refuge. Vann’s appointment sends a loud-and-clear message: your queerness doesn’t cancel out your calling. In fact, it might just be your superpower.
This isn’t just about rainbow flags in pews. Vann is stepping into a role with real power to reshape the spiritual and social landscape. LGBTQ clergy across the globe are watching her move with hope—and maybe a little holy envy. For centuries, the Church has been a fortress of tradition. Now, it’s beginning to open its doors to the queer faithful, one bishop at a time.
A Higher Calling—With Heels and Healing
Let’s not get it twisted: Vann isn’t here to turn the pulpit into Pride. She’s been clear that her mission is unity, not division. But her very presence in this role makes a statement louder than any sermon: love is divine, no matter who you love. And leadership doesn’t come with a gender or sexuality clause.
The LGBTQ community, especially those navigating both faith and identity, has long lived in the shadow of spiritual rejection. Vann’s ascension is a beacon—proof that progress is not only possible, it’s happening. It’s a reminder that queer people don’t just belong in church pews—they can wear the mitre too.
So light a candle, strike up the organ, and maybe throw in a Beyoncé hymn for good measure. The Church in Wales just got itself a real one.