Parkminster Update

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Parkminster Project -Minster Abbey
Progress Report- Autumn 2009

In June of 2009, we were able to welcome guests to the newly renovated barn, in the grounds adjacent to the Abbey. The area known as Parkminster is now included in our ministry of hospitality. The first stage of the renovation work to Parkminster is complete. The barn has been restored, and bought up to an acceptable level of health and safety. We have decided to rename it the “North Grange”. The renovations including repairs to the roof, installation of roof windows extensive electrical renovations, plumbing upgrading, and structural repairs to the roof and old beams have now been completed. New flooring has been installed, as well as a new stair lift and a complete overhauling of the fire safety system. The kitchen, toilets, meeting rooms, and consultation room, have all been newly decorated, creating a beautiful and peaceful meeting space for the many groups and individuals who are beginning to use the facility. The new roof windows make the “Upper Room” much lighter and create a sense of space and beauty. The room has a magnificent view overlooking the farm yard and garden, and a spectacular wild flower meadow. By bringing the property up to an acceptable level of health and safety, and using both floors as meeting areas, the Grange now provides a meeting space for larger groups and individuals Parkminster is now a spacious and safe place to welcome our guests with special needs, and disabilities who require a quieter environment. We are beginning to welcome more school and college students. We hope to create an historical exhibition of the ancient monastery which will include an audio visual presentation. This will be of great benefit for the many school groups who are now applying to use the facilities. Those who come will be able to see more of the original monastic site which is at the same time the home of an actual living, praying community, providing a firsthand experience monastic life at Minster Abbey. In early 2010 we hope to begin Stage Two of the development. We plan to landscape the surrounding acre of land, providing a place of relaxation, prayer and reflection in the Parkminster gardens. We have secured funding for one year in order to employ a part time volunteer supervisor for the day to day running of the facility. In addition to the landscaping, there are a number of other works to be carried out, including repairs to outer buildings, disability access etc. With recent success in grant applications we look forward to beginning this work soon. Bookings for 2010 for non residential day groups (up to 60) are now being taken. We are also now taking bookings for the Guest House (see Guest House link.) Please apply in writing to the

Hospitality Sister
Minster Abbey
Minster, Nr. Ramsgate,
Kent, UK CT12 4HF