YOUNG MEN'S CHRISTIAN ASSOCIATION.

Globe, Volume XXII, Issue 1952, 27 May 1880, Page 2

YOUNG MEN'S CHRISTIAN ASSOCIATION.

On Monday evening last; this association held their second social gathering of members and friends, in their rooms, Cathedral square. Thore was a large attendance. At seven o'clock the usual refreshments were handed round, and thoroughly enjoyed. At 730 the chair was taken by the president, Mr Wm. Purdie, who in a few words introduced the Rev. McKee, late from Dublin, who had been asked to read a paper on this occasion. The subject was " Regeneration," and at the finish of the reading Messrs Clarke, senr., Grilling, Ridley, Sl'nn, J. W. Twentyman, Robs, and Callender spoke, several having raised questions on points arising in the paper, but all acknowledged the able manner in which the subject had been treated. Mr Ross moved, Mr Ridley seconded, and Mr J. Callender supported, a vote of thanks to the writer. Mr McKee made a brief acknowledgment, and thanked the members for affording him the opportunity of coming among them, and hoped soon to be received as a member. Mr J. W. Twentyman presided at the American organ during the evening, entertaining the members with some first-class music. Mr Furdie, before closing the meeting, stated that he bad a duty to perform, which he could have (desired should come before them at another time, having received a letter for the present meeting bearing reference to the financial condition of the association. In consequence of the absence of the treasurer, he was unable to give a correct statement of accounts. He could only state that the expense of removing and making the premises what they were, and paying an amount of money to clear the association of the old rooms, and other expenses, had left them with rather heavy liabilities. He desired to state that the money collected during Dr. Somerville'a visit had been expended in the purchase of a piece of land, leaving a balance which was placed out at interest and could not be touched for any other purpose. On account of the bad times the Board of management had decided not to attempt to build until times improved. The letter held in his hand stated that Mr George Gould had in his generous and practical way offered to add to all subscriptions collected by members 20 per cent. He considered the Young Men's Christian Association a co-operative or " help-me-self " society. The president also stated he had received another promise of 5 per cent, on all moneys collected by members. After a number of proposals for membership, the meeting closed with prayer. Since the meeting an additional 5 per cent, has been offered on the same conditions.