We also realise that the enemy of our souls is never far away, and we trust that the Lord will
rule and overrule in these solemn matters.

Might the Lord cause us to consider and search our hearts as to the decline in the number of
GS places of worship and those gathering in His Name over the past 50 years. The
consequence that this decline, in turn, has had on the Bethesda Homes both in terms of
resident numbers and those who have been constrained to work and serve in the Homes,
cannot be overlooked.

Might the Lord bring us to the Mercy Seat pleading “O LORD, revive thy work in the midst of
the years, in the midst of the years make known; in wrath remember mercy”. (Habakkuk 3:2)
We realise that the closure of the Bethesda Home at Harpenden is a very trying and searching
matter for all involved. The trustees’ prayers, Christian love and concern go out continually
to the residents, their loved ones and the staff, especially in this time of anxiety and
uncertainty. The trustees also sympathise with the feelings and concerns of those that have
had a long association with the Harpenden Home.

We would also like to take this opportunity to acknowledge the wider feedback that has been
received. Although it has not yet been possible to reply personally to each item of
correspondence received, the trustees have noted the points and comments raised and these
have been referred to in their various discussions concerning Harpenden.

We are also aware that there have been some ‘misunderstandings’ as to what is happening,
and in the details which are passed on amongst individuals. The trustees have sought to
communicate as promptly as possible but are conscious of the need to prayerfully and
sensitively consider what is written so as not to cause misunderstanding. Sometimes this is
not as quick, in this age of instant response, as some would wish; we would ask your
forbearance in this matter.

One comment mentioned recently was to the effect that the Harpenden Home has been
sold. This is categorically not true. Over the years the trustees have received enquiries
from interested parties regarding acquiring the Harpenden site. If and when the Harpenden
site becomes available, then the trustees would look to disposing of the asset within the
framework of Charity Law and Regulations. The trustees intend to take this opportunity to
seek the Lord’s will for the provision of Bethesda in meeting the needs of those in later
years within the GS places of worship - both now and in the future. Such a development
would align to the outcomes of the various presentations held in 2019 that focused on
independent retirement living and the need for high dependency residential care. This was
re-iterated in the letter “The Future Direction of Bethesda (March 2021)”, which is available
via the Gospel Standard Bethesda website / Bethesda Publications / Bethesda Updates, or
on request from Mr. Adrian J.H. Topping, Bethesda General Office, 12b Roundwood Lane,
Harpenden AL5 3BZ.

In concluding, as mentioned, it is with a heavy heart that this has been written; yet we trust
that we might be found looking to the Lord who opens and closes doors according to His
sovereignty and foreknowledge, and that we might be found submissive to His will.
Do pray for the residents, their loved ones, staff, and managers at this time, that the
everlasting arms might be known and felt in sustaining and upholding them throughout this
“darksome path” (Gadsby Hymnbook No. 315).

Yours sincerely
The Trustees
Gospel Standard Bethesda Fund