Wallace Benn (born 8 March 1943) is a retired British Anglican bishop. He served as the Bishop of Lewes, a suffragan bishop in the Diocese of Chichester, from 1992 until his retirement in 2010.
Early life and education
Benn was born in England and was educated at Durham University, where he studied theology. He subsequently trained for ordination at a theological college affiliated with the Church of England.
Ordination and early ministry
He was ordained as a deacon in 1969 and as a priest in 1970. Benn held several parish posts, including incumbencies at St Mark's, Worsley, and All Saints, Brockley. He also served as Rural Dean of the area before being appointed to episcopal ministry.
Episcopal ministry
Consecrated as a bishop in 1992, Benn assumed the role of Bishop of Lewes, providing episcopal oversight for the eastern half of the Diocese of Chichester. During his tenure, he was known for his evangelical orientation and public commentary on moral and social issues, notably expressing traditionalist views on topics such as marriage and sexuality. He participated in diocesan governance, pastoral care, and national Church of England committees.
Retirement and later activities
Upon retiring in 2010, Benn was granted permission to continue serving as an honorary assistant bishop in the Diocese of London, where he assisted with confirmations and other episcopal duties. He has contributed to theological publications and continues to be involved in evangelical Christian networks.
Personal life
Benn is married and has a family; details of his personal life are publicly limited.
Legacy
Wallace Benn is recognized within the Church of England for his long service in parish ministry and as a suffragan bishop, as well as for his participation in public discourse on ecclesiastical and ethical matters.
Note: The information presented is derived from publicly available biographical sources and official Church of England records.