wfn.org | Kingswood School : Celebrating 250 years of Methodist education

[NewsDesk <NewsDesk@UMCOM.UMC.ORG>]

July 20, 1998	Contact: Linda Green*(615)742-5470*Nashville, Tenn.
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By Alan Griggs*

BATH, England (UMNS)-Educators representing Methodist Schools around the
world met here  to commemorate the 250th anniversary of Kingswood
School, the precursor to the church's commitment to education.

Kingswood School was founded in 1748 by the father of Methodism, John
Wesley, as an answer to the rampant social and religious ills in England
during the 18th century.

The July 18 celebration at the school marked the beginning of the 1998
International Association of Methodist-related Schools, Colleges and
Universities (IAMSCU) conference and tour through the United Kingdom.
The conference concludes July 23.

IAMSCU endeavors to develop partnerships and connections among Methodist
institutions and was formed during the World Methodist Council's 1991
meeting in Singapore. Today, the association includes more than 700
institutions.

Gary Best, headmaster at Kingswood School, recounted the school's
history, telling the gathering that it was John Wesley's desire to have
a school that would produce students "according to the accuracy of the
Christian model." Under Wesley's directions, students adhered to a
strict daily regimen of instruction and worship, thus fulfilling
Wesley's belief that "holiness is happiness."

Best explained that Wesley's emphasis on a strong Christian education
for the young has been carried on through 250 years of  Kingswood
existence by leaders and teachers alike, producing students who have
become leaders in their respective fields around the world. All, he
said, remember the Kingswood tradition of retaining their enthusiasm and
their curiosity, avoiding dullness and being committed to God and
Christ.

IAMSCU participants, marching in full academic regalia, also dedicated a
commemorative plaque listing the 21 countries represented at a special
convocation on campus. The convocation highlighted the global impact of
John Wesley's commitment to education.

Beginning with 28 pupils in 1748, Kingswood School today educates 480
students from many countries. The school is always mindful of its
heritage as an institution designed to challenge young people
academically while providing a strong spiritual foundation for their
years ahead.
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*Griggs is director of media strategy for United Methodist
Communications.

United Methodist News Service
(615)742-5470
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