Presiding Bishop
Faith expressed through service
The Rt Reverend Ryan Peter James Cleminson is a Liberal Catholic bishop, community advocate and founding figure of The Liberal Catholic Church of Saint Stephens International. His ministry brings together Christian faith, pastoral care and a commitment to practical service.
Before entering ordained ministry, Bishop Ryan spent approximately a decade in grassroots politics and campaigning. That experience shaped his understanding of leadership and public responsibility. Seeking another way to serve his community, he entered the Church and progressed through the diaconate and priesthood to the episcopacy.
Consecrated a bishop in 2022, he subsequently led the Diocese of Dynod and Wledig in Wales. Throughout his ministry, he has emphasised that clergy should be present and accessible within the communities they serve.
Pastoral care and public advocacy
Bishop Ryan’s advocacy has addressed homelessness, social justice, additional learning needs, neurodiversity, mental-health services and safeguarding. His involvement with Candy for Carers reflected a particular concern for young people carrying caring responsibilities.
He understands Christian compassion as something expressed through action: listening, offering pastoral support, advocating for vulnerable people and responding to hardship.
His approach to leadership also draws upon the Nolan Principles of public life: selflessness, integrity, objectivity, accountability, openness, honesty and leadership.
Building the Church
In 2023, Bishop Ryan stepped down as Bishop of Wales and left the Old Catholic Apostolic Church. Together with Reverend Morgan Frank, he began developing The Liberal Catholic Church of Saint Stephens International around a shared commitment to pastoral care, inclusion and service.
The work involved establishing the Church’s structures, policies and ministries as its life developed internationally. Bishop Ryan regards the creation of the Church as one of his proudest professional achievements.
Conscience, compassion and inclusion
Bishop Ryan places considerable importance on conscience, compassion and each person’s relationship with God. His opposition to conversion therapy and the marginalisation of LGBTQ+ people forms part of his understanding of Christian pastoral responsibility.
He has described himself as an “industrial bishop”: a bishop whose ministry reaches beyond ecclesiastical administration into the everyday lives of people and communities.
For Bishop Ryan, episcopal office carries a responsibility to be present, to listen and to translate Christian belief into practical care.