THE Methodist Ministers' Housing Society was founded 60 years ago to ensure that ministers and deacons know that when they came to retire, they would have a home to move into and be able to continue to play a role in the local community. Sixty years ago, a small charity was founded with the gift of a manor house in Barrow-on-Trent, in Derbyshire, into which a small group of retired Methodist ministers moved. And then, thanks to a generous bequest, 20 flats were built in the grounds.

Today we have over 960 properties around the UK but demand continues to outstrip supply. Whilst some ministers have the resources to purchase their own property, the increase in prices over the years has meant that many are still not in this position. Some are able to contribute towards the cost of a purchase and enter into a shared ownership agreement. Over the last six years the society has provided homes for an average of 40 ministers a year. The majority of these properties have been purchased on the open market and we have, therefore, also been hit by the increase in costs.

We have been fortunate in receiving a number of properties each year through the generosity of individuals who have remembered the Society in their Will. As part of our Diamond anniversary celebrations, we are appealing for you to consider leaving a bequest to the Methodist Ministers' Housing Society when choosing how to dispose of a family property.

Anyone who has met a retired Methodist minister or deacon will know of the continuing ministry they provide long after they have officially retired. They continue to preach, provide pastoral care and take on a variety of roles within their community and beyond. The security of a good home in an area of their choice - something the majority of us take for granted - takes away pressures experienced by retired ministers before the society existed and when each had to find somewhere to live. Please help us to continue this wonderful gift. Visit mmhs.org.uk or call me direct on 0207 467 5272.

Shelagh Morgan, chief executive.