Ism.org.uk
Title
ISM - Home page
Description
On Friday 18th May 1956 six people met at Balham Park Hall, south-west London by invitation of medium Bertha Harris (affectionately known as "Battling Bertha") accompanied by Ben Harrington, O.B.E and medium Russell Harwood to discuss the formation of a new organisation for mediums and mediumship. A donation from those present, including Harold Vigurs, enabled letters of invitation to be sent to all known London mediums, if interested, to attend the next meeting.
An illustrious register of names records the strong support readily given and a Constitution was drafted, the name of the Union of Spiritualist Mediums chosen and preparations for public meetings to offer evidence of Spiritualism's truth. A quarterly posting of information to members was promoted, to be called "The Medium" which today is the organisation's official journal. Small meetings were planned to promote new young mediums and provide provincial mediums with a chance to show what they could do before a London audience, termed "Fledglings' Meetings". When the standard by these workers is suitably proficient the Institute awards them a Probationer's Certificate as a foundation for public work, whether members or not.
Spirit guidance was sought through member-medium Nan Mackenzie and her control "Running Water" and the teaching practices began, slowly but surely. Such was the interest that appointed Area Representatives were selected to form sub-committees in localised areas. They were to run monthly meetings for members and friends, to promote further interest on educational matters as well as offering evidence of spiritual life after physical death. These are called "Branches" by decision of the membership and continue in six areas at present.
