CHURCHES' PATRIOTIC UNION

Hokitika Guardian, 1 September 1917, Page 3

CHURCHES' PATRIOTIC UNION

A SUCCESSFUL GATHERING

Notwithstanding the many counterattractions, there was a largo, and enthusiastic gathering a t the Town Hall last evening, to form a “Churches PaUnion.” The objects of the above union are to assist returned soldiers ; to give the men going to the front a word of cheer nndfarewell; also to assist in social affairs. The Union; will in no way hinder the operations of the other patriotic societies, but will; assist them. ' Mr. H. L. Michel occupied the chair, and Revs. Dr. Holloway, Fraser and H. Ryan were also on the platform. '

The proceedings opened with a hymn, followed by a prayer. Mr. Michel, in explaining the object of the Union, its work and usefulness, said unions of a similar nature had been formed in other parts of the Dominion. He was pleased to see so many present of the various denominations, and also the meeting of the various clergy on tho one platform. I Mr. P. 15. Fraser moved:—“That a I Union representing tho Churches in Hokitika and district be now formed, and the “Churches Patriotic Union.” The object of the Union is to enable the Churches represented to engage in patriotic and social work, to the glory of God, and in tho service of our I.old Jesus Christ.” , Rev. P. B. Fraser in moving the forming of the Union said that, although it was new to the people, in a great many places, these unions were f formed. It was proposed to assist oilr j fellowmon who were away fighting in this great war. lii his opinion it was not the. time to form movements against other Societies. All domestic affairs should be settled when peace is declared. Under a Union of this kind all could express their separate opinions, which was not possible on a public platform." There were many eases where' the Union could assist returned sokliers, who in a great many cases wore badly treated. It should see that far better provision was being made for the soldiers. It was our dutv. to assist

these causes. There were activities

such as at tho Mental Hospital, and tho Charitable Aid Hoard, which was very costly, should receive their attention. He also mentioned tho Y.M.C.A. He expressed pleasure n't being associated with the other Christian clergy and people of this town. Rev. Doctor Holloway in seconding the motion, assured the audience there was something definite and clear in the movement. He asked for full support. This union could got in touch with the men at the front and show them t;

at no were working and praying for them. He also mentioned the “Swazzlo Club” which was a disgraceful “club,” as one thing that should bo fully‘considered. Ho congratulated the Patriotic Society on their great work. In working in a patriotic and social manner, the joining of the different churches would be a most satisfactory one. He hoped that in time to come all of them would he worshipping together.

Mr. Aitken nnd Mr. H. M. Coulson (Deputy-Mayor) also spoke • in favour of the motion and movement. Mr. Coulson read a telegram he had received from the Ministf r of Internal Af fairs asking the Churches to have, on October 7th., a Pay of National Prayer. He asked the Unions’ assistance in that matter

The motion was put and earned unanimously.

Before appointing the officers Rev. IT. Ryan expressed his hearty approval of the Union endorsing the remarks of the previous speakers, He moved that Rev. P. di. Fraser lie appointed Chairman, as he hadbeen the organiser of the union. He, also referred to the men at the front receiving teachings from the Chaplains of different denominations. The officers elected were as follows : Chairman—Rev. P. B. Fraser, M.A.; Vice-Chairmen—Rev. Dr. Holloway, and Rev., Ryan. Secretary —Mr. J. B. Ward; Treasurer Mr. Win. Wilson; Committee (consisting of two gentlemen and a lady from each Church). Misses Thompson, Goudie, Duff and Messrs A. E. McGregor, 11. L. Michel, Aitken, J. A. Valentine, F. Oliver and R. Wild.

The office bearers to be the executive committee. I discussion followed and then a collection was taken up, resulting in the sum of £4 9s 3d. A vote of thanks was moved to the chair and the singing of the National Anthem ended a very successful gathering.