THE MULLER FELLOWSHIP

By kind permission of the City of Bristol College authorities we were once again able to gather at Ashley Down, so on 25 September 2004, over 80 old boys and girls enjoyed a day of friendship, food, fun and fumbling through old school photographs. Numbers were slightly down on previous years as some regulars were on holiday and sadly others have died. Nevertheless, we were again happy to welcome some newcomers to the reunion and we endeavoured to introduce them to other attendees they might remember. It is always a pleasure to welcome not only old pupils to our reunions but also their families and friends who come along for the purpose of providing transport or merely to get a flavour of life at the Homes. 

 

The format of the reunion has been adapted to that which is most popular among our visitors, although we are always looking for new ideas to try. Once again the reunion commenced with an informal time when refreshments were served. Photographs were available for viewing and members of the committee circulated to ensure no-onewas left out. Once everyone had arrived we were treated to a lovely cooked meal prepared by the college chef before settling down to the formal part of the reunion. This year John Ley gave us a short talk on the life of George Müller and Elizabeth Bloxham told us about her life and experiences in the scattered homes. This was followed by a“sewing class” conducted by Dilys Morgan (nee Smith) who also shared some of her wartime memories with us. Irene Cornick told us how grateful she is for her upbringing at Müllers for it was here that her life was given such a good grounding. George Lane reminded us that the Lord’s hand is always upon us; even in the most trying and testing of circumstances and Julian Marsh concluded the formal session by assuring us that the Lord is interested in all aspects of our lives.

 

We must not forget the singing, which has always played a big part in our reunions, and this year we introduced some modern hymns into the programme when we were grateful to Stan Davey’s daughter-in-law and Michael Sumner for providing accompaniment on the keyboard and accordion respectively.

 

Visitors come from far and wide to attend the reunion but not too many travel as far as 85-yearold Fred Banyard who came all the way from Australia. Fred was able to stay and join us for the  post reunion weekend in Weston-super-Mare where we had a lovely time of fellowship, which included the singing of some Australian songs in the hotel lounge.

 

If anyone reading this report has never been to a reunion why not come along. It is very difficult to convey on paper the atmosphere and enjoyment experienced, so why not put Saturday 24 September in your diary and decide that 2005 will be the year you come along and see for yourself?

 

This year we will be holding a special reunion at Cabot House, Ashley Down to mark the 200th anniversary of George Müller’s birthday. If you would like to join in this special occasion please contact us for more details.