NEW MINISTER WELCOMED

Dominion, Volume 11, Issue 292, 29 August 1918, Page 3

NEW MINISTER WELCOMED

AT ISLAND BAY PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH. A social gathering was held on Tuesday ovening iit the Island- Bay Presbyterian Church, ivhen a hearty welcome was accorded by the congregation and friends to their new Minister, the Rev. .1. M. Thomson, M.A. The chair was taken by the Hon. J. G. W. Aitken, M.L.C., Moderator of the General. Assembly, who made a happy speech of encouragement ,to both minister and people. Mr. Aitken reminded his hearers that they were part of a big church, namely, the Presbyterian Church of New Zealand, the activities of which have increased in a marked degree during the past ten years. Statistics were quoted showing the increase in numbers of churches and Sunday schools, and also the progress of social work on behalf of orphans and aged people. Special reference was niado to the rapid development of the boys' Mid girls' colleges. After a few words of welcome from the office-hear-Mr. Thomson made a brief reply, during which lie spoke of the. need of co-operation between the pastor and tho congregation.

A very enjoyable programme of musical and elocutionary items was contributed to by Mrs. Kennedy, Misses Dix (2), Eva Smith, N. Jennings, and Messrs. .J. Bryant, A. F. Barnes, Georgo Hood, and the Island Bay Glee Party. The accompanists were Miss Jennings and Mr. J. Allen. Supper was provided by the ladies of the congregation. thus concluding a very successful function.