PRESBYTERIAN ASSEMBLY

Hokitika Guardian, 23 November 1920, Page 4

PRESBYTERIAN ASSEMBLY

(Per Press Association.) WELLINGTON, Nov. 22. Tile. Presbyterian General Assembly had before it, the case of Rev. A. A M'urray who is under suspension by Auckland Presbytejry. The complaint against him is that he xxndenvent immersion at the hands of a Baptist Minister and expressed disbelief in infant baptism and discontinued it in his church. He Avas suspended and appealed to tho Assembly. After some opposition, it was decided to hear tho appeal. Mr Murray was then, heard personally His principal contention Ava,s lie had never been formally charged Avith a definite breach of duty and Avlien a citation "’as issued lie was not informed of the nature of the charge. He said he Avas advised by two eminent counsel that Ids action, was ljustified. Opponents j contended that Mr Murray had been given full opportunity for discussion | and explanation, but had bounded out of the room and invitations to meet the Presbytery Avere treated AA’ith contempt. The Assembly dismissed the appeal and also a further appeal lodged on his behalf by Campbell an elder *of his church. Dr Gibb said Murray seem ed to courting martyrdom, and begged him to resign and save the Assembly from endorsing his suspension. Murray did not respond.