This will probably be the final newsletter because as we near closure it becomes painful and difficult to write interesting articles. Gradually the Post-Graduate students, our sustaining bread and butter, are moving out as they either complete their Bristol based activities or move to accommodation ready for next academic year. M.I.H. continues to be in demand, of course, but increasingly for a transient population of short stay students who although very welcome, can not build into the same sense of community that long stay residents generate. The Methodist District is losing something that they should have been proud of, but instead followed another agenda. It would be good to have been able to inform you, our readers, of what and how the money released from MIH funds and property was going to be used for, but it would appear that The District have not yet decided about this. In our last newsletter the Rev’d Ward Jones (Chair of The Bristol District) wrote:

“Anyone with ideas is more than welcome to send their suggestions to either the Synod Secretary, the Revd Carrie Seaton, or the District Policy Committee Secretary, the Revd Peter Mortlock.”

If you have ideas and have not yet responded can I encourage you to do so as a matter of haste. It would be a shame to see MIH money whittled away because no one knows what to do with it!

After much debate within the warden team, we will not be organizing a summer garden party this year. A symbolic “Beating the Retreat” and “Last Post” by the A.T.C. band might have been too poignant and a lot of our long term residents would have moved on anyway. The outing in May was a success, as was the get together in the main lounge afterwards and it is better to end on a high. A vibrant, happy social event is best for the memory. At least for my memory after nearly twelve years service at MIH.

Thank you for your support over the many years since MIH Bristol opened in 1957. Amazing things have been achieved here and lasting friendships formed that can only contribute to international peace and understanding. Many have also grown in respect for each others’ religions and I believe MIH has been a beacon of Christian serving ministry. For this, to God be the Glory!

My wife Sheila and I are proud, and humble, to have had the privilege of serving here in the long line of dedicated and hardworking Wardens who preceded us. Thank you to you all, especially the staff and The Management Committee who have made it all possible.

God bless,

Mark.
(Mark started work at MIH in December 1998)

Please click on the title to read the full Newsletter. You can find it in PDF format attached to this page.