The Archbishop of Canterbury, Justin Welby, is very sad to hear of the death of Stephen Sykes, former bishop of Ely, Regius Professor of Divinity (Cambridge) and Van Mildert Professor of Divinity (Durham). His prayers are with his family: his wife Joy and his children Juliet, Joanna and Richard.  

Bishop Stephen’s contribution to Anglicanism, and to the Church of England in particular, is immeasurable. His former students – serving across the Anglican Communion and around the globe – testify to his legacy in the training and formation of teachers and pastors. His books, as well as his academic contributions to many Church of England reports and commissions, will ensure his legacy continues to shape and inspire the Anglican world.

Archbishop Justin had the privilege of getting to know Bishop Stephen in his retirement in the diocese of Durham.

The Archbishop said: "Bishop Stephen’s whole life was dedicated to serving God and his Church. The Church of England is deeply indebted to his ministry of thoughtful scholarship and servant leadership. I am deeply saddened to hear of his death – not least because it is so sudden for his dear wife Joy, his children and grandchildren – yet I rejoice at a life lived so well and so wholly in the service of Christ, through many trials and difficulties."

Bishop Stephen’s funeral will be at 2.00pm on Friday 10thOctober in Durham Cathedral.  He will be buried at the Arbory Trust woodland burial site in Cambridge.