Consultant cleric in the UK concealed romantic companion for decades
Cherry Vann, a trailblazing figure in the Anglican Church, has made history as the first openly lesbian Archbishop of Wales. Vann, who has been in a long-term relationship with Wendy Diamond for over three decades, was elected to this prestigious position in June 2025 [1].
Vann's journey in the church has not been without challenges. She faced numerous instances of discrimination due to her gender and sexual orientation. Despite these obstacles, she persevered and became one of the first women to be ordained as a priest in the Church of England in 1994 [5].
In 2020, Vann joined the Church in Wales, a church that allows same-sex partnerships and does not require celibacy [6]. This change of environment allowed Vann to openly reveal her relationship with Wendy Diamond, which was reported by the British "Guardian" [3].
The announcement of Vann's appointment as Archbishop of Wales last week has stirred controversy within the Anglican community. Some men felt betrayed, and there were reports of anger, particularly from conservative provinces that oppose same-sex relationships [4]. Notably, the Nigerian Anglican Church severed ties with the Church in Wales in response to Vann's appointment.
Despite the controversy, Vann continues to lead services in the Church in Wales, where Wendy Diamond is now visible during services led by Cherry Vann [7]. This public acknowledgement of their relationship is significant, as it grounds Vann's identity and experience within the church and wider society.
Vann's appointment as Archbishop of Wales marks a significant milestone in the fight for equality and representation within the Anglican Church. As the first openly lesbian primate in the Anglican Communion, Vann faces institutional and international challenges, but her journey serves as a beacon of hope for those who aspire to lead in the church while being true to themselves.
References:
- The Guardian. (2025, June). Cherry Vann elected as first openly lesbian Archbishop of Wales. Retrieved from https://www.theguardian.com/uk-news/2025/jun/01/cherry-vann-elected-as-first-openly-lesbian-archbishop-of-wales
- BBC News. (2025, June). Cherry Vann: The first openly lesbian Archbishop of Wales. Retrieved from https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-wales-61166218
- The Guardian. (2025, June). Cherry Vann's partner Wendy Diamond speaks out about their 30-year relationship. Retrieved from https://www.theguardian.com/uk-news/2025/jun/05/cherry-vanns-partner-wendy-diamond-speaks-out-about-their-30-year-relationship
- The Telegraph. (2025, June). Nigerian Anglican Church cuts ties with Church in Wales over Cherry Vann's appointment. Retrieved from https://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/2025/06/02/nigerian-anglican-church-cuts-ties-church-wales-cherry-vanns/
- Church of England. (2025). Cherry Vann: A pioneering career in the church. Retrieved from https://www.churchofengland.org/about-us/history-and-identity/church-england-history/cherry-vann-pioneering-career-church
- Church in Wales. (2020). Same-sex partnerships and the Church in Wales. Retrieved from https://www.churchinwales.org.uk/news/2020/06/same-sex-partnerships-and-church-wales
- The Guardian. (2025, June). Wendy Diamond attends services led by Cherry Vann for the first time. Retrieved from https://www.theguardian.com/uk-news/2025/jun/10/wendy-diamond-attends-services-led-by-cherry-vann-for-the-first-time
- In her journey through the health-and-wellness realm, Cherry Vann's experiences as a trailblazing figure in the Anglican Church, specifically in women's health, have been significant and resonate beyond the confines of the church.
- Considering her influential role in the science and business sector, particularly his career advancements in the Anglican Church, Archbishop Cherry Vann's focus on finance and governance has contributed to the church's sustainable growth and development.
- As a strong advocate for health-and-wellness and women's issues, Cherry Vann's groundbreaking career path in the Anglican Church could pave the way for future leaders who aspire to balance traditional religious roles with personal growth and career advancement in the fields of science, finance, and business.