Nicholas Chamberlain becomes first Church of England bishop to come out

The Bishop of Grantham has became the first Church of England Bishop to declare he’s in a gay relationship.

A Sunday newspaper threatened to reveal Nicholas Chamberlain’s sexuality, pushing him to speak publicly.

Speaking to The Guardian, he said:

“It was not my decision to make a big thing about coming out. People know I’m gay, but it’s not the first thing I’d say to anyone. Sexuality is part of who I am, but it’s my ministry that I want to focus on.”

Chamberlain was consecrated November last year and he’s revealed that the people involved with his appointment all knew about his sexual identity.

He’s also stated that ht adheres to church guidelines in which gay clergy must be celibate and can not marry.

Justin Welby, the archbishop of Canterbury said:

“I am and have been fully aware of Bishop Nick’s long-term, committed relationship. His appointment as bishop of Grantham was made on the basis of skills and calling to serve the church in the diocese of Lincoln. He lives within the bishops’ guidelines and his sexuality is completely irrelevant to his office.”

Chamberlain said he’s been with his partner for many years.

“It is faithful, loving, we are like-minded, we enjoy each other’s company and we share each other’s life.”

Despite becoming the first Church of England bishop to come out, Chamberlain has stressed that he doesn’t want to be known as “the gay bishop”.

You can read the full interview with Chamberlain over at The Guardian.

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