John Inge

John Inge. He is a senior bishop in the Church of England, serving as the Bishop of Worcester since 2007. Previously, he was the Bishop of Huntingdon, a suffragan bishop in the Diocese of Ely. Known for his pastoral focus and engagement with social issues, his ministry has spanned several decades across different regions of England.

Early life and education

John Inge was born in Stoke-on-Trent and attended Newcastle-under-Lyme School. He pursued higher education at St John's College, Durham, graduating with a degree in theology. His initial career path led him to become a teacher of religious studies at Wrekin College in Shropshire. Following a sense of vocation, he undertook training for ordination at Westcott House, Cambridge, one of the Anglican theological colleges in the University of Cambridge.

Ecclesiastical career

He was ordained as a deacon in 1984 and as a priest in 1985 in the Diocese of Lichfield. His early ministry included serving as a curate at St Mary's Church, Stafford. After this, he moved to the Diocese of Durham, where he was appointed Vicar of St John's Church, Neville's Cross. In 1997, he returned to the West Midlands as the Archdeacon of Coventry, a role within the Diocese of Coventry under the leadership of the Bishop of Coventry, Colin Bennetts. In 2003, he was consecrated as a bishop, becoming the Bishop of Huntingdon in the Diocese of Ely, serving alongside the Bishop of Ely, Anthony Russell. He was appointed to the see of Worcester in 2007, succeeding Peter Selby, and was installed at Worcester Cathedral. As a Lord Spiritual, he has taken his seat in the House of Lords.

Views and controversies

He has been a vocal advocate for social justice, often speaking on issues such as poverty and refugee welfare. Within the Anglican Communion, he has maintained a broadly central churchmanship position. He voted against the introduction of women bishops in 2012 but later supported the measure, acknowledging the settled will of the General Synod of the Church of England. He has expressed conservative views on matters of human sexuality, aligning with the traditional teaching of the Church of England while encouraging pastoral sensitivity. During the COVID-19 pandemic, he was active in promoting community support and leading digital worship from Worcester Cathedral.

Honours and awards

In his role as a diocesan bishop, he holds the honorary position of Visitor to the University of Worcester. He was awarded an honorary Doctor of Divinity degree from the University of Birmingham in recognition of his contributions to theology and public life. As the Bishop of Worcester, he is also the permanent Co-Chair of the West Midlands Churches Together. His service entitles him to the formal style of The Right Reverend.

Personal life

He is married to Denise Inge, a theologian and author, and they have two children. The family has lived in the Bishop's House, Hartlebury, the historic residence attached to the see. He is a known supporter of Wolverhampton Wanderers F.C. and has spoken about the importance of family and local community. His interests include history, particularly that of the West Midlands, and walking in the Worcestershire countryside.

Category:1955 births Category:Alumni of St John's College, Durham Category:Anglican bishops of Huntingdon Category:Anglican bishops of Worcester Category:People from Stoke-on-Trent