ST. JOHN'S CHURCH.

Dominion, Volume 3, Issue 636, 13 October 1909, Page 8

ST. JOHN'S CHURCH.

ANNUAL MEETING. There was a good attendance of members and adherents of St.. Jphn'B. Presbyterian Church at the annual meeting last night,' in the Church Hall, Dixon Street. Dr. Gibb presided. .-"...' .■-'.- The report and balance-sheet—an epitome Of which has already appeared in our columnswas taken as read, and its adoption - was moved by Mr. J. G. W. Aitken,, who referred to the gratifying record of, successful work contained in the report, and .warmly expressed the indebtedness, of the congregation to the labours of their minister.' The motion was seconded by Mr. W. Hopkirk, and spoken te by Mr. J. Butler, who emphasised the work done in the Bible Classes, and Sir. W. Grayi who dwelt upon.the question of the Sabbath schools, laying special'emphasis on:the need of teachers' training classes. . In putting the motion to the meeting, Dr. Gibb gave expression' to his gratitude k>r the sympathy and steady appreciation of the congregation ; and office-bearers. His'task, as Mr. Aitken-had said,, was no light one, but the burden, was the easier to bear .'because of 'the unfailing help given to him'by his people. The motion was carried with acclamation. The-Rev. John Mackenzie, : of Christchuxch',' who.had conducted the anniversary services last Sunday, then delivered an" address," in which he discussed the work of the church from the standpoint of its-adversaries and gainsayers. -The address,.which was interesting and suggestive, was listened to with much attention. ' - v . ~ .

• Dr. Gibb, in.the name of the office-bearers, presented a cheque for the purchase of books to,the Rev. J. Gibson Smith, who had acted as moderator of tho congregation during Dr. Gibb's furlough.'Ho explained that the delay in acknowledging Mr. Smith's services was duo to the breakdown; of the arrangements which had been made to welcome him (Dr. Gibb) back to the Dominion. That; as they would all remember, was due to his wife's illness in Melbourne. This was really the first opportunity they had had of thanking tho in'' terim moderator for his kind help. Mr. Smith replied in a hnmorous speech, and' thanked them' for their recognition of his services. He had not roally thought them worth such an expression of regard. During the evening, the choir, under tho leadership of Mr. Barnott, rendered a-number of part songs, and solos were contributed by 'Mr. Barr and Miss Rash. '