Magnolia trees to be planted across Devon for new Archbishop of Canterbury
Commemorating Archbishop Sarah Mullally’s connections to the Diocese of Exeter
Three magnolia trees are set to be planted across Devon to celebrate the installation of the Most Reverend Dame Sarah Mullally as the new Archbishop of Canterbury.
Previously serving as Bishop of Crediton from 2015 to 2018, Archbishop Mullally will be officially installed at Canterbury Cathedral on 25th March, with the tree planting taking place on 24th March.
The ceremony is intended to highlight Archbishop Mullally's significant ties to Devon, marking her new leadership role with both symbolic meaning and lasting presence in the region.
The Bishop of Exeter, the Rt. Rev’d Dr Mike Harrison, said “Recently Archbishop Sarah planted two magnolia trees at the entrance to Lambeth Palace to Symbolise new beginnings, hope and patience in her ministry.
“Picking up on that theme, and conscious of her connections with Devon as a former Bishop of Crediton, we are marking her installation as the new Archbishop by planting three magnolia trees.
“These symbolise Archbishop's Sarah's engagement with healthcare, Crediton and the people of the Diocese of Exeter.
“Just as magnolia trees symbolise perseverance, renewal and joy we pray that these dimensions may be evident in her ministry in the coming years, and we give thanks for her willingness to take on this daunting but vitally important leadership role."
The first tree will be located at Holy Cross parish church in Crediton, the seat of the Bishop of Crediton, and reinforces her previous ministry in North, Mid, and East Devon. The Rt. Rev’d Moira Astin, current Bishop of Crediton, remarked on the lasting reminder of Archbishop Mullally’s ministry.
The Rt. Rev’d Moira Astin, the current Bishop of Crediton, said “Each year the serving Bishop of Crediton celebrates Midnight Mass in Holy Cross church Crediton. From this base in worship and welcoming the miracle of God coming into the world as a vulnerable baby, Archbishop Sarah served the people of North, Mid and East Devon, and so it is good that
there will be a long-lasting reminder here of her ministry and my prayers are with her as she begins her new role.”
The second tree will be planted at Hospiscare’s Searle House ward in Exeter, recognising her past roles as NHS Chief Nurse and Vice-President of Hospiscare.
Wayne Gale, CEO of Hospiscare, said “We at Hospiscare are delighted that Archbishop Sarah’s friendship, support and advocacy for our hospice over the years is being celebrated in such a thoughtful way. The magnolia that has been gifted to Hospiscare in Sarah’s honour will undoubtedly bring joy to patients and their families in our care for years to come.
“We’d like to send our thanks to Sarah for her service to the people of Devon and her time as a vice president of our hospice, and congratulations and best wishes for her new role as Archbishop of Canterbury.”
The final tree will be placed in the garden of the Bishop’s Palace near Exeter Cathedral, contributing to ongoing efforts to enhance biodiversity within the city.
The planting of magnolia trees in Devon is intended to ensure they flourish and bloom in the years ahead, reflecting the perseverance, renewal, and joy associated with Archbishop Mullally’s ministry.