Hi Paulapollos
I too served at the london bethel, 95-97. I remember Mike Pottage, he came back to the london bethel because of civil unrest in the country in which him and his wife were serving. He became a memeber and overseer of the construction family. Some of the posts mention his ability to weave his missionary past into every conversation, very funny and true!
After leaving bethel my wife and I pioneered for 5 years and I served as an elder for 4 of them. I started to be troubled by issues almost a tear after being appointed, but many here on this forum will have done the same - 'left it to Jehovah'. At bethel i did see some strange things, it was the bidding for rooms that made me laugh the most though. Uglier things revolved around the pecking order and bethel eldership. There was a power struggle around 'the press' with a member of the GB having to fly out and give them all a talking too! I really feel for you and your wives for the way you were treated. In my experience, bethel becomes the coldest place on earth when you tell them your leaving, it must have been truly strange for all of you.
I have never posted on here before but i am a big fan of the freeminds website. I felt like responding as the discussion reminded me of some fun times, some people i know and the strange place they call bethel.
Why do you think, if the reports are true! that a number of responsible ones are starting to take the emblems? I have my ideas but i would be interedted if you had heard any discussions from around the bethel table!
Kind regards J