Statement from YWAM England released on 30th June 2025
After much prayer, discussion, and discernment, a final decision has been made to prepare Holmsted Manor for sale. Holmsted Manor has served as a wineskin for fruitful YWAM ministry for 50 years since 1975, and therefore we invited proposals so that it would not just be retained, but flourish. It was agreed that it would require a very large investment in time, money, and people for renewal and without the numbers, it will be incredibly hard to sustain successful ministries as well as restore the house and grounds.
This decision was not made lightly. It follows a season of careful review, including recommendations from the YWAM Holmsted Ministries CIO, and meetings between the trustees of YWAM England CIO and YWAM Limited. Together, we considered the future needs of the ministry, the significant investment required to renew the property, two proposals, and the importance of unity across all three boards for any forward direction.
This has been a difficult emotional process for many of us, as we have personal and spiritual history and connection with the property. At the same time, we reached a prayerful peace that this is the right next step.
We would ask for your continued prayers as the decisions and their implications require wisdom, expertise, and practical work.