The Church of Nigeria (Anglican Communion) has strongly opposed the appointment of Rt. Rev. Cherry Vann as the new Archbishop of Wales, calling it a violation of traditional biblical teachings. Vann, elected on July 30, 2025, is the first woman and openly lesbian leader of the Church in Wales, a decision that has further strained relations within the worldwide Anglican community.
Archbishop Henry C. Ndukuba issued a statement declaring that the Church of Nigeria would not recognize Vann’s leadership, citing her same-sex civil partnership as incompatible with scripture. “This decision abandons biblical truth in favor of modern cultural trends,” Ndukuba said, referencing biblical warnings against false teachings. He likened the situation to past disputes, including the ordination of openly gay bishop Gene Robinson in 2003.
Vann, 66, has served as Bishop of Monmouth since 2020 and was among the first women ordained in the Church of England in 1994. Her election follows the resignation of former Archbishop Andrew John over internal church disputes. While progressive Anglicans welcome her historic appointment, conservative factions, including GAFCON and the Global South Fellowship, have condemned it, calling for a return to traditional doctrine.
The Church of Nigeria warned that Vann’s leadership undermines the Anglican mission and urged members to resist what it called "false teachings" by supporting conservative Anglican movements. The Church in Wales allows clergy to enter same-sex civil partnerships but does not permit same-sex marriages, a policy that continues to fuel division. As Vann prepares for her formal installation, the Anglican Communion remains deeply divided over issues of sexuality and scriptural interpretation.
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