NEW CHURCH BUILDINGS.

Franklin Times, Volume 9, Issue 614, 8 March 1921, Page 4

NEW CHURCH BUILDINGS.

DIFFICULTY OF PERMITS. Despite the fact that Papatoetoe has grown to almost double the size in the last five years the church accommodation is practically the same as it was then, with respect to the Presbyterian and English churches. Therefore it is only to be expected that on special occasions they prpve far too small, and the available space has to be used to the greatest advantage, and often to great inconvenience. An effort to remove this position was being made and was moving to a successful issue when building restrictions placed all prospects of any relief in the dim distance. The Presbyterian Church, which was the first one in the district, was to be replaced by a spacious brick building. About £4OOO was in hand for a commencement of the work, and the presbytery had given the congregation the necessary authority to act in the matter. They in turn had given the committee permission to borrow another £4OOO. AU that appeal'd to he necessary was to secure a permit and proceed with the woik. But here a difficulty was encountered. Churches come sixth on the list of necessary buildings, so the permit could not be obtained. The Church of England faces the same difficulty. It was intended to build a commodious structure in front of the present church, which ks really a hall. This also was to be in brick. Since that cannot be accomplished at the present the hall is to be enlarged by the addition of a chancel, estimated to cost £3OO. The vestry has approved of the work being done, and a special offering is t< be called at Easter to raise funds for this necessary extension. The Methodist Church has already been enlarged to meet present requirements.