Ian, the former Archdeacon of Lynn, was diagnosed with cancer and died on 31 May 2022 having been cared for in his final days by staff at the current Priscilla Bacon Lodge in Norwich.
Bishop Graham says;
“Many of you knew Ian, who served the Diocese of Norwich with such distinction, ministering in its many parishes, including Oulton Broad, St Peter Mancroft and as Archdeacon of Lynn. He also served on the Chapter of Norwich Cathedral. Ian was a faithful minister of the gospel and when he died, many of us lost a friend too. If you are able to, I encourage you to consider donating to support the great work of the Priscilla Bacon Hospice Charity as they work to complete the new hospice building, during your preparations for Lent.”
The current lodge was built in 1979 and was donated to the NHS after the facility was built. Since then, several factors have led to a chronic lack of specialist palliative care beds within Norfolk and Waveney. The new Priscilla Bacon Lodge is being built on an 8 acre site next to the Norfolk and Norwich hospital. It will have the capacity for 24 beds, providing specialist end of life care in Norfolk and Waveney, supporting those with the greatest and most acute needs.
Archdeacon Steven says;
“Ian Bentley’s ministry touched many people throughout the Diocese and next year’s Lent Appeal is an opportunity to support the hospice in which Ian spent his last days, with his family around him. Priscilla Bacon Lodge provides Specialist hospice care for Norfolk and Waveney, right across the area of Ian’s ministry, and the new larger building will enable many more to be helped and supported at a very difficult and challenging time. “
The new facility will also have a wellbeing centre, office space, education rooms, a chapel and secluded gardens.
More information on the Lent Appeal and how to donate will be on the Diocese of Norwich website from January 2023.