LE BON'S BAY.

Akaroa Mail and Banks Peninsula Advertiser, Volume V, Issue 468, 18 January 1881, Page 2

LE BON'S BAY.

(Communicated.)

Interesting and successful services in connection with the re-opening of the beautiful church in this place have been held in t c building. r lhe church (which was originally built 11 years ago) had become too small to accommodate the people who assemble for worship, and as it was necessary to have more space the idea of enlargement was spiritedly entered into and carried nut by the inhabitantsFortunately, the land upon wlich the church stands—which is well situated in the centre of the valley, and having a burial ground—enabled them to do this in a mnnner highly creditable to themselves and to Mr W. Penlington, of Akaroa,under whose supervision the alterations were made. The result is a convenient and suitable house of praise, the largest but one in the county. The sitting accommodation has beenj doubled, a vestry added the entrance doer placed on tho eastern side, and a large gothic window put in the gable fronting the main road. There-open-ing of the church took place on Jan. 9th, when sermons were preached by the Eev. A. Scholes, who has been staying atnongot the people during the past few weeks, and whose visit has been highly appreciated by them. In the evening the church was crowded, and a liberal collection made towards tho cost of enlargement.

On the 13th instant a largely-attended tea-meeting was held. The building was tastefully decorated,-and a sumptuous repast given by the ladies of the congregation. After tea a public meeting was heldi presided over by Mr W. Barnett, to whom the. cause hero is lastingly indebted for the interest he has taken in its welfare. A financial statement having been made, interesting addresses were delivered by the Chairman, Rev A Soholes, Messrs Eeece and Kirkly, the proceedings being enlivened by the church choir,

The cost of enlargement will be close upon £100. About half of this cum hns been raised, and it is believed the balance will be forthcoming in a few weeks, Liberal gifts of grass-seed, cheese, etc., are being made, and these will be sent to Christchureh and sold for this purpose.