Bishop Guli Francis-Dehqani: We were outsiders

Interview with an Iranian-born bishop exploring exile, identity, and Church leadership

In this in-depth BBC World Service interview, Bishop Gulley Frances Takani reflects on her journey from Iran to the UK, the trauma of exile, and the complex questions facing the Church of England and the global Anglican Communion. Her story connects issues of refugee integration, Persian identity, and debates about the future role of the Archbishop of Canterbury.

Iranian-born church leader on exile and cultural identity

Bishop Gulley describes a layered sense of belonging: she remains deeply attached to Iran while acknowledging that returning permanently is unlikely. Her testimony highlights the emotional tension of diaspora identity and the enduring ties to family, language, and faith communities left behind. She also recounts political violence experienced by her family during the 1979 revolution, illustrating how persecution of converts and Christian minorities shaped her vocation.

Refugee welcome, integration, and dignity for asylum seekers

The conversation foregrounds how differently refugees are received today compared to the past. Bishop Gulley argues for humane asylum processes and dignified support so newcomers can rebuild and contribute. She links personal experience of a "soft landing" to a moral imperative for churches and society to provide opportunities and compassion for displaced people.

Anglican Communion future: leadership, inclusion, and reform

Bishop Gulley is widely discussed as a possible candidate for Archbishop of Canterbury. She resists media speculation but uses the moment to ask whether the historic relationship between Canterbury and the worldwide Communion still fits the 21st century. She clarifies that the archbishop is more a convener than a papal-style executive, and urges a broad, inclusive conversation across provinces about leadership, authority, and unity.

Women, diversity, and the gift of living with difference

Echoing themes of inclusion, she frames the Anglican tradition as a space for holding theological diversity. Bishop Gulley emphasizes that the Church’s strength would be demonstrating how to live well together despite deep differences—offering a model of pluralism and reconciliation in a polarized world.

Takeaways: the episode combines a personal refugee narrative with thoughtful proposals about church governance, refugee dignity, and the cultural responsibility of religious leaders. It’s essential listening for audiences interested in religious diversity, Middle Eastern diaspora stories, and debates over Anglican leadership reform.