Dear friends,

It is our joy and privilege to share with you the news that a new Bishop of Grimsby has been appointed. The Venerable Jean Burgess, currently Archdeacon of Bournemouth in the Diocese of Winchester, will be consecrated in February next year and will begin her ministry as a bishop in our Diocese before Easter.

The formal announcement was made by Downing Street this morning, and the bishop-designate was introduced to a gathering of church representatives and civic leaders at Grimsby Minster. Jean also met with clergy and lay ministers in Scunthorpe, followed by a visit to William Farr CofE School in Welton, where pupils had the opportunity to ask her questions about life, faith and ministry in the Church of England. Tomorrow, Jean will meet staff at Edward King House, before travelling to Spilsby to meet with ministers and parishioners.

As Bishop of Grimsby, Jean will have a particular care and responsibility for people, parishes and partnerships in the northern half of our Diocese, alongside a wider lead role for mission, evangelism and faith in the public square. She will also become the Chair of the Diocesan Board of Education, working closely with our schools, staff and young people.

Please do visit the diocesan website for more information and photographs from today's announcement: Press Release - Bishop of Grimsby

We are so looking forward to welcoming Jean and her husband Graham to our Diocese and we ask you to pray for them as they prepare for this new chapter in life and ministry.

Yours ever in Christ,

+Stephen and +Nicholas

The Bishop of Lincoln and the Bishop of Grantham