The Bishop of Lincoln speaks in the House of Lords: 2 -3 February 2026
On Monday 2 and Tuesday 3 February, the Bishop of Lincoln spoke in the House of Lords. Find out what he was taking part in.
Read the storyWhat Is Statistics For Mission?
This is information collected from your church about attendance at church services. It also looks into the numbers of baptisms, marriages and funerals that have taken place over the last year.
The Statistics help paint a picture of participation in the Church of England across the country. It’s important on a regional level too.
The figures can identify trends and spot opportunities, and help formulate missiological, outreach, and clergy deployment strategies on a longer-term basis. This is really important for the future of our Diocese!
Why Should I fill it in?
Helps Plan ministry
The returns from parishes are vital for planning for our shared mission and ministry and can affect what that looks like in your community.
Supports Resource Allocation
The information helps build up a picture of what’s going on in our churches, and how Bishop’s Council, Deanery and Diocesan Synods, and the Archdeacons and Bishops make wise decisions about how the Church uses its resources. Accurate statistics inform these decisions.
Can Improve Collaboration
As each church and Local Mission Partnership discerns its own plans for mission and growth during Time To Change Together, understanding the local scene is essential. Good statistics are necessary for mission work to succeed.
Provides Fresh Discoveries
The data also provides accessible information which local churches can use such as the Parish Spotlights and the Parish Dashboards. Some people who look at their Parish Spotlights have made unexpected discoveries about the people living around them. Detailed statistics for mission can reveal vital opportunities to better adapt or grow.
What do I need to do?
If you’re already signed up
Sign in to the Parish Returns system to begin completing the Statistics For Mission data returns:
If you’ve never filled in a return
If you have never filled in a return before please contact statistics@lincoln.anglican.org and they will set up a user name and password for you. Or contact the Parish Support Team on 01522 504050.
A guide to completing your returns
There is a helpful guide to help you complete your returns. Please click or tap the button below to view a guide that runs you through how to return your Statistics For Mission: