SUNDAY SCHOOL CENTENARY.

Globe, Volume XXII, Issue 1980, 29 June 1880, Page 3

SUNDAY SCHOOL CENTENARY.

In connection - with the celebration of the Sunday school centenary in Christchurch, the promised tea and conversazione came off in the Oddfellows’ Hall yesterday evening, and may bo pronounced to have been a great success, reflecting the utmost credit upon the ladies and gentlemen who took upon themselves the responsibility of making all arrangements ; Mr J. Higgins in particular being indefatigable in his efforts to make everything go off well. The Hall, which was opened to visitors at 5.30, was prettily decorated, and the walls wore hung with numerous exhibits, shelves also being ranged along the sides of the hall to accommodate the many exhibitions of skill and ability contributed by the scholars. There were amongst these a great number of works of art and objects of interest, such as could not fail to create in the minds of the observer surprise as well as pleasure ; some of the exhibits (by the youth of both sexes) being so really fine, and betraying in many instances original ability of no common order, as well as a degree of culture that reflected no small credit on those who have conducted the education of the young people. Some of the cabinet work would compare favorably with the best work turned out in large establishments, employing the pick of skilled labor, and specimens of illuminated writing and other works of art were equally commendable, to say nothing of the rare taste and ingenuity exhibited in the fancy work of the gentler sex, the last coming in for a largo share of admiration. In each class of exhibits prizes were awarded, and though the post of judging is always one of difficulty on such occasions, it may be said that the gentlemen who undertook the task in this instance acquitted themselves very well indeed, and to the general satisfaction. In a notice so short as we (for want of space) are compelled to give, little more than a general description of the exhibition can be exhibited, and nothing further is therefore attempted. At about half-past five the visitors, comprising the children, their friends and teachers,

sat down to tea, for which tho most elaborate arrangements had been made, and about 1100 were present during the evening. After tea, the majority repaired to the body of the hall, to promenade and enjoy what there'was to see, but the hour arrived for the “ entertainment, 1 * which consisted of musical selections, recitations, &c., commencing at 7‘30, and concluding at about half-post nine, this portion of tho evening’s proceedings being introduced by Mr H. J. Ross, President of the Union, who delivered an appropriate address to those present. As may be gathered a most enjoyable evosing was spent, and notwithstanding tho unpropitious weather, yesterday’s part iin the general celebration of the centenary was a decided success. It should bej mentioned that in the afternoon a ladies’ convention was held in the United Methodist Free Church Schoolroom. The exhibitions in tho Oddfellows’ Hall, will, by special request, be opened again to-day.