Canterbury commissions envoy to Vatican as Anglican-Catholic ties deepen

The Anglican Communion says the Archbishop of Canterbury, the Most Revd and Rt Hon Dame Sarah Mullally, has commissioned the Rt Revd Anthony Ball as her representative to the Holy See.

The appointment was confirmed during a service in Rome, where Bishop Ball, who serves as Director of the Anglican Centre in Rome, will act as a key liaison between Anglican and Roman Catholic institutions.

The Anglican Centre in Rome represents the permanent presence of the Anglican Communion in the city and works to strengthen relations with the Vatican. It supports collaboration with Catholic bodies on areas including education and shared mission, while facilitating dialogue between the Archbishop of Canterbury and Pope Leo.

Speaking after the commissioning, Bishop Ball described the role as “a huge honour”, noting that the Archbishop’s visit to Rome had been a source of encouragement for Anglican communities and those involved in the Centre’s work.

He said the occasion reflected growing ecumenical cooperation, highlighting joint participation in worship and the presence of senior Catholic figures, including Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle, who delivered a sermon at the service.

The Anglican Communion has called for prayers for Bishop Ball as he begins his ministry, as well as for continued progress in Anglican–Catholic relations.

Source: The Anglican Centre in Rome