In 2026, the religious world crossed another historic threshold with the appointment of
Sarah Mullally, the first female archbishop in the Church of England. However, this milestone would never have been possible without the centuries of women who helped to change the world of religion before her.
Around the world and throughout all religions, women have historically been kept in the background. But over the years, that has changed thanks to medieval saints, historic gurus, trailblazing rabbis, groundbreaking bishops, and modern reformers who guided, inspired, and transformed religious communities.
So, who are the most influential women in religion, past and present? Click on to find out.