You can read the announcement here.
The Ven Ian visited a variety of places on Wednesday 14 June as news of his nomination was announced.
The day began with him taking part in collective worship in the outside space at Preston Church of England Primary School in Tasburgh. A school he knows well as he was once Chair of Governors here and his children also attended the school.
Afterwards, it was on to Great Yarmouth, staring with a visit to Pathways Cafe and support centre at Minster Mission. Pathways has been open since 2014 serving those in need in the parish of Great Yarmouth. Volunteers and 2 staff members serve hot meals to over 80 people every Monday and Friday. There is a brunch cafe every Wednesday and almost 50 parcels are prepared for Foodbank which operates from the building every Thursday.
Nearby, there was the opportunity to visit Great Yarmouth Minster, the biggest parish church in England! Ian met with Revd Simon Ward, Mayor Penny Carpenter and Henry Cator, the High Steward of Great Yarmouth, along with volunteers and church members.
Following this he visited Oulton Broad in the Waveney part of the Diocese where he was able to enjoy a walk from St Mark’s Church with Revd Helen Jary, along with churchwardens and Bishop Graham. They then spent time with Peter and Patricia Gillett, both Waterways Chaplains, and prayed together for their ministry as well as for those living and working in the area.
The group then headed to Cloverfield Community church in Thetford where Ian was able to see the work of the local Sports Ministry Team in action, led by Susie Bratby.
Finally, the day concluded with a short service of prayer at St Cuthbert’s church in Thetford, led by Revd Peter Herbert.
Speaking about the day The Venerable Ian Bishop said;
“Its been a lovely day, we have travelled all over Norfolk and Waveney and we’ve seen some wonderful things and met some lovely people. All I’ve seen has only encouraged me to think this is going to be the most wonderful opportunity to be Bishop of Thetford. It’ll happen very soon and I can’t wait to be with you.”