Margaret Sentamu was one of twelve deacons ordained yesterday at York Minster.
She told the Daily Telegraph that "it felt right to explore her calling, ahead of her husband's retirement next year".
Bishops have ordained their wives before but this is the first time an archbishop has ordained a spouse
Mrs Sentamu said: "It's about connecting the Church and society and executing a public role in my own right, not just through the person I'm married too."
"God calls from all walks. I know it's not going to be easy, but I know what I'm stepping into."
The twelve new deacons will serve in the Diocese of York, across 607 churches.
They will assist in leading worship as well as working in the local community, and serving as assistant curates in one of the 470 parishes in the diocese.
Dr John Sentamu tweeted ahead of the ordination, to invite people to support and celebrate the ordination of the new deacons and said: "Bringing a variety of experiences, each have their own gifts to share as we pray together for God's Kingdom to come and His will be done on earth as in Heaven. God be with you!"
Stay up to date with the latest news stories from a Christian perspective. Sign up to our daily newsletter and receive more stories like this straight to your inbox every morning.