Bishop of Lincoln Stephen Conway resigns amid ongoing complaint process
Bishop Nick Chamberlain to serve as Acting Bishop while a successor is discerned
Last updated 22nd Sep 2026
The Rt Rev Stephen Conway has resigned from his position as Bishop of Lincoln, effective 21st September 2026, leaving the See vacant from 1st October.
Bishop Nick Chamberlain will take on the role of Acting Bishop of Lincoln, while a Crown Nominations Commission is set to be convened to appoint a successor.
Bishop Conway was suspended from his duties in February 2026 due to a complaint lodged with the National Safeguarding Team.
The complaint was handled following the protocols outlined in the House of Bishops Code of Practice, and was referred to the police at that time.
The process regarding the complaint is still ongoing, and clergy members, including the resigned or retired, remain subject to church disciplinary procedures.
This transition follows established church protocols, ensuring that leadership in the diocese remains effective while progress is made toward appointing a new Bishop of Lincoln.
This announcement marks a significant change in the leadership of the Lincoln diocese, with future decisions expected to shape its path forward.