NEW BROTHERHOOD.

Dominion, Volume 3, Issue 859, 4 July 1910, Page 4

NEW BROTHERHOOD.

THE "BACKBONE" FORMED. A unique meeting was held in the Herbert Street Hall yesterday morning, when, under tho auspices of the Central Mission, over a hundred men gathered to form the "Backbone of the Wellington Brotherhood." The determination of the inaugurators was rewarded by a fino gathering, in which much enthusiasm was displayed. A fortnight ago it was decided to secure ouo hundred members as a basis for organisation, and when tho missioner announced the entrance of No-. 102 he was greeted with applause and other marks of controlled excitement. A few visitors were present, but the weather was not of an inviting \nature, and tho largo gathering was partly due to a pledge taken by tho 89 whose names had been handed in as members, to be presont "wot or dry." The singing by lusty voices was an inspiration. Mr. Blamires addressed the men of the "Backbone" upon the need of an organisation in which Christian brotherliness could be practised, and the strong could help the weak. Te Fatherhood of God, the Kingship of Christ and tho brotherhood of man were planks in the platform of the movement. Meetings would he held in the King's Theatre shortly, and they were to be made of such a character that hrotherliuess could be felt as well as talked about. He expressed his delight at tho formation of the "Backbone,"' and with such a basis from which to work believed confidently that tho "body" would be strong and vigorous. At the conclusion five committees were set up to consider .arrangements for visitation, meetings, registration,, finance, and welcoming. These will meet during the week, and report to a committee dealing with the drafting of the constitution.