POPULAR MINISTRY.

Auckland Star, Volume LX, Issue 232, 1 October 1929, Page 5

POPULAR MINISTRY.

SOMERVELL CHURCH,

REMTJERA.

FAREWELL TO MR. PATTISON AND FAMILY. The Presbyterian congregation known as Somervell, Remuera, farewelled its minister, the Rev. J. Pattison, at a social gathering last evening. The proceedings were presided over by the session clerk, Mr. Platt. There was a crowded attendance. Musical items were given by Miss Asher, Miss Richards and Mr. Lee, dramatic items by the Pilkington family, and Mrs. Nicholas. Speeches in appreciation of the splendid work done by the minister during the time he had been in charge of the church were made by the Rev. G. Budd, the Rev. J. A. Thomson, and the Rev. A. J. Grigg, who all referred to the brotherly and friendly character of Mr. Pattison. Mrs. Fisher spoke of the good work done by Mr. and Mrs. Pattison in the women's organisations of the church. Mr. A. H. Wilkinson, one of the foundation members of the session, said that in the thirteen years of Mr. Pattison's service all departments of the church had grown exceedingly. There had been added to the property a new manse, a new hall, the church had been enlarged, and,a pipe organ had been installed. On behalf of the congregation Mr. R. Campbell made a presentation of a very handsome canteen of cutlery, and cheque to Mr. and Mrs. Pattison, a wristlet watch for Miss Pixie Pattison, and a fountain-pen for each of the sons of the manse. The gathering concluded with supper. The Bible classes said farewell to Mr. and Mrs. Pattison on Saturday evening. All who spoke paid a tribute to the work of the guests of the evening. One speaker expressed the pleasure that was felt at Pukekohe, Mr. Pattison's new charge, being so near Auckland, and though he .was leaving the district, they might look forward to the pleasure of meeting again from time to time.