ODening of New Church, Taonui.

Feilding Star, Volume XVIII, Issue 145, 18 December 1896, Page 2

ODening of New Church, Taonui.

"• The Minister and workers connected with the Cuba Street Methodist Church, Palmerston, for some months past have been holding services in the schoolroom, Taonui, four raiies from Palmerston, on the Rangitikoi Hue. The attendance and interest manifested in connection with the services were such as to warrant steps being taken to erect a chnrch. The scheme was taken up with most commendable courage and enterprise, and now there is a neat, roomy church, capable of seating about 200 worshippers, provided for the residents of the district. Opening services were conducted on Sunday last by Rev G. Harper, of Kongotea, when large and attentive congregations gathered together. Yesterday was a field-day. Nearly 300 people attended to share in the opening festival. Tea was provided iv the church and tents. The field in the corner of which the new chnrch stands presented a busy animated scene. Young and old gave themselves np to pleasure, the games of cricket and rounders being largely indulged in. At 7.30 p.m. the church was crowded to overflowing for a public meeting which was presided over by the Pastor, Rev F. Quintrell. A large choir and orchestra, led by Mr Grace, rendered excellent musicial selections in splendid style. Addresses were delivered by Messrs Collis, Harrison, Grant, and others. Hearty votes of thanks brought the meeting to a close about 10 p.m. when, amid all - round congratulations, the crowd dispersed.