UK appoints first Catholic prime minister
Andy Burnham. Photo: AFP
On July 20, 2026, Andy Burnham became prime minister of the United Kingdom following Keir Starmer’s resignation, making him the first Catholic to head the British government, The Catholic Herald reports.
King Charles III accepted Starmer’s resignation and asked the new prime minister to form a government. Several days earlier, Burnham had been elected leader of the ruling Labour Party.
Burnham was born in Liverpool to a family of Irish heritage, attended Roman Catholic schools, and has repeatedly spoken about his faith. In 2023, he met with Pope Francis.
Archbishop Richard Moth, President of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of England and Wales, has offered his congratulations to new Prime Minister Andy Burnham, encouraging him to respond to injustice with “respect for the dignity of the person”.
Historically, most British prime ministers have belonged to the Church of England. Recent heads of government, however, have represented a range of religious beliefs: Keir Starmer described himself as an atheist, while Rishi Sunak is a Hindu.
Before becoming prime minister, Burnham served as mayor of Greater Manchester for nine years. He is married and has three children.
As the UOJ reported earlier, the Church of England approved special liturgies for euthanasia deaths.
Read also
Hundreds of faithful honor St. Kuksha in Odesa
Pilgrims had the opportunity to venerate the relics of St. Kuksha at the Dormition Monastery in Odesa.
Activists attack UOC lawyers during Upper Lavra court hearing
UOC lawyer Archpriest Nikita Chekman reported that the legal team was blocked inside a café during an air raid alert and subjected to attempts at physical intimidation.
UOC hierarchs mark 25th anniversary of monastery in Seltso
Metropolitan Ioann of Kherson and Tavria led the Divine Liturgy at the St. John the Theologian Monastery to mark the anniversary of its founding.
Kyiv resident charged over threats against Ukraine’s chief rabbi
A Kyiv resident faces up to five years in prison for posting online threats against Ukraine’s chief rabbi.
"We were about to leave, but were detained" – Phanar bishop on OCU creation
Metropolitan Gregorios described how the Constantinople delegation was taken under police escort to Poroshenko and prevented from leaving Ukraine.
Yurash tells Cardinal Zuppi which issues to address during Russia visit
Ukraine stressed the need for tangible results during the latest stage of the Holy See’s special mission in Russia.