MOTHERS’ UNION.

Ashburton Guardian, Volume 57, Issue 245, 28 July 1937, Page 6

MOTHERS’ UNION.

THE RURI-DECANAL FESTIVAL.

ATTENDED BY MANY VISITORS. The sixth annual ruri-decanal festival of tiie Mothers’ Union was held yesterday, when there was a record attendance, visiting branches from Southbridge, Rakaia, Methven, Bushside, Hinds, and Tiiiwalcl attending. Visiting clergy included the Rev. W. J. Hands (Avonside, Christchurch), the Rev. H. J. W. Knights (Rakaia), the llev. H. 8. Hamilton (Alethven), tho Rev. G. L. Wilson (Southbridge), the Rev. W. T. Williams (Mount Somers), the Rev. A. S. Moffatt (Hinds) and the llev. H. Childs (Tinwaid). The festival began with the celebration of Holy Communion in St. Ste* plien’s Church, Archdeacon A. J. Petrie being the celebrant, assisted by Mr Moffatt and Air Hamilton, and Air Williams celebrating from the altar in the

Children’s Chapel. Air Hands gave an inspiring address on “’Shadows.” Lunch was served by the Ashburton branch, when there were 168 present. After lunch Airs Petrie (enrolling member) gave a short inspiring farewell message to the members. The afternoon session was again attended by a large gathering', AIl - Hands taking for his address “Tire responsibility of parents and their influence on their children from infancy and through tho adolescent age.” The address was most helpful. Suitable hymns and prayers were used.

Archdeacon Petrie thanked the speakers and the various branches for their attendances. At the conclusion three presentations were made to Airs Petrie. Airs Dickie, on behalf ol the Methven branch, presented a beautiful picture of the Southern Alps taken from Alotliven. Airs Knights, on behalf of Rakaia branch, presented a beautiful jug vase and Airs Goldsmith, on behalf of Bushside branch, a cup, saucer and plate, each expressing their thanks to Airs Petrie for all she had done for their branches during the nine years she had been in the rural deanery. The visiting clergy expressed appreciation for the hospitality of the Ashburton . branch in entertaining the visitors and the enjoyable day spent. Afternoon tea brought a memorable day to a close.