THE NEW BISHOP.

Hokitika Guardian, 9 February 1926, Page 4

THE NEW BISHOP.

MESSAGE TO DIOCESE

CHRISTCHURCH, Feb. 8.

Shortly after the announcement was made that Bishop West Watson had accepted the call to the Diocese of Christchurch, the editor of the “Church News” cabled to him asking for a special message to the diocese, to be printed in the columns of that journal. The Bishop very kindly responded at once, and the following letter from him is published in the February issue:

Carlisle, Nov. 22.

I am grateful for the opportunity of sending through the “Church News” a message to the Diocese of Christchurch. First let mo say xvliat an honour I felt it to be invited by the Archbishop of Canterbury to accept nomination to such an important sphere of work. My wife and I had often hoped to have a chance of doing some work overseas, but the question of the family had seemed a. difficulty. When therefore, the (Archbishop's letter came it found us ver ready to entertain the idea, and very happy indeed, when on consideration and consultation we felt able to accept it. The hearts of English people turn with very warm thoughts fo New Zealand, perhaps in a special degree since the war gave us the chance of knowing many New Zealanders personally. and on all sides we are hearing of the wonder of the country and the kindness of its people. T know that you will realise that it will take ns some time to appreciate and understand all the problems of clinch life in a now land, and that we must come at- first as disciples of a great and romantic chapter in church history. I was reading the life of Bishop Sclwyn last year and telling my people something of his story, and massive work for New Zealand, so that I do feel something of the noble tradition of which I am to become an heir.

t It ntis a groat encouragement to me to read the other day the farewell address of Archbishop Julius to bis synod; to find how section after section appealed to me and to appreciate bis wonderful spirit and capne-

iiy. It will !»;> difficult to follow smli a leader: I can only, with God’s help, do my best. AAV* are leaving ail extraordinarily lumpy work, but we arc sustained not only by the assurance of a real call, but by feeling that wo cannot think of any other work io which we should have preferred to he called. AVe look forward with great jov for ourselves and the family to the prospect of our life and work in Christchurch. 1 write from Carlisle, u here the Archbishop of York is to-day dedicating flic re-hung hells in the Cathedral, which have not. we believe, been rung since they welcomed Prince Charlie in 1716. In the Cathedral this morning it- struck me as 1 thought of a message to you, that mine could be better than tlie Epistle which was read (for the 22nd. Sunday after Trinity). I cannot, write with St. Paul’s personal knowledge of his friends, but. if I could. I am certain that T should only sond the message more confidently. (Signed)— Campbell avest avatson.