September 21, 2026

The Rt Rev Stephen Conway has resigned as Bishop of Lincoln. The See will become vacant on October 1.

Bishop Nick Chamberlain will continue as Acting Bishop of Lincoln. A Crown Nominations Commission will be convened in due course to discern the next Bishop of Lincoln.

Bishop Stephen Conway was suspended from ministry in February 2026 while a complaint made to the National Safeguarding Team was responded to according to House of Bishops Code of Practice. This included referring the complaint to the police.

The complaint process is ongoing. Clergy remain subject to church disciplinary procedures following resignation or retirement.

Support

If this statement causes distress, support is available through the independent Safe Spaces helpline on 0300 303 1056 or visit safespacesenglandandwales.org.uk.

Alternatively, you may wish to contact the diocesan safeguarding team in your area or the National Safeguarding Team at safeguarding@churchofengland.org.