Primate, Most Rev'd Henry Ndukuba
By JOY ADARA, Abuja-
The Church of Nigeria (Anglican Communion) has strongly condemned the election of Rt. Rev. Cherry Vann, an openly lesbian cleric, as the Archbishop of Wales, labeling it a significant deviation from biblical principles and a threat to the global Anglican Communion’s unity.
The Church’s Primate, The Most Rev’d Henry Ndukuba, in a statement on Sunday in Abuja, described Vann’s election on July 30, 2025, as “a clear sign of spiritual decline” and “a rejection of the faith handed down to us.”
He argued that the decision reflects a broader trend among some Anglican provinces to prioritize modern cultural agendas over scriptural authority, stating, “This election reveals that many claiming to be part of Christ’s body cannot endure sound doctrine, choosing instead to follow their own desires”.
Ndukuba drew comparisons to the controversial tenure of Most Rev. Katherine Jefferts Schori, former Presiding Bishop of the U.S. Episcopal Church (2006–2015), noting that Vann’s elevation could similarly undermine the Anglican Church’s mission and credibility.
“The salvation of souls, biblical ethics, and the global identity of Anglicans are at stake,” he warned, emphasizing that the move impairs evangelism efforts and the essence of Anglican orthodoxy.[
The Church of Nigeria declared, “We unequivocally reject and will not recognize the election of Rt. Rev. Cherry Vann as Archbishop of Wales”.
Ndukuba urged Anglicans worldwide to oppose what he termed “rebels” and “apostates,” encouraging alignment with conservative groups like the Global Anglican Future Conference (GAFCON), which upholds traditional biblical teachings.
“We must pray for the Church of Wales, hoping it does not lose its relevance in God’s plan for the people of Wales,” he added, calling for repentance and a return to godliness.
The election of Vann, who has been in a civil partnership with Wendy Diamond since 2015 and was previously Bishop of Monmouth, has deepened existing tensions within the Anglican Communion over issues of sexuality and doctrine. The Most Rev. Dr. Laurent Mbanda, Chairman of the GAFCON Primates Council, echoed Nigeria’s stance, calling Vann’s election “an act of apostasy” and urging orthodox Anglicans to resist “revisionist pressures” that compromise biblical teachings on sexuality.
The Church of Nigeria reaffirmed its commitment to upholding scriptural authority, historic creeds, and holy Christian living, invoking Matthew 16:18: “We believe that our Lord Jesus Christ will build His Church, and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it.
