ROSS NEWS.

Hokitika Guardian, 31 July 1926, Page 3

ROSS NEWS.

(From a Correspondent)

A very pleasant social gathering was held at the residence of Mr and Mrs Peebles on Wednesday evening, when after the conclusion of the confirmation service, some 50 members ot St. Paul’s J,lurch, and friends, gathered to extend a hearty \\ elconie to the newly appointed Bishop and his wife. The large room was beautifully decorated and presented a charming effect, reflecting great credit on the artistic tastes of those ladies, who had been in charge of the department, and who had spared no effort to make the surroundings worthy of the occasion. The Vicar. Rev. Young, opened the proceedings introducing the guests to those present, and in humorous vein spoke of their south trip and various incidents en route.

Then Mr Osmers (People’s Warden), on behalf of the congregation extended to the Bishop and Airs West Matson a very hearty welcome. Ho hoped that they had found the Coast all they had expected. Air Osmers, while disclaiming the role of a public speaker, exnressed very suitably the feelings of respect and admiration, that one and all felt towards their new leader.

After rising to reply, the Bishop was greeted with sustained applause, but soon everyone was listening intently to a quiet and well delivered address, in which the new comer gave his impressions of South West! a ml. His Lordship spoke of the great pleasure they had experienced in going to the far south and of the great future which he felt sure lay before the south districts. He spoke of the wellknown men who had laboured so well for their church and people in the past. Rev. Newton. Rev. Monahan and of the good work being done at present by Rev. Young. f\\ ith a district the size of a diocese he, the speaker, wondered how Rev. Young could manage to carry on so well, and asked the people not to expect that it could he done indefinitely by the same man. Such a task was too great. His Lordship also mentioned the noble part played by Airs Young, and how willingly she spared her husband in order that lie might carry out his duties. The Bishop closed by hoping that at some future date he would again meet his people under similar circumstances.

During the evening items were given by Airs Chapman, Allss Evans. Air Adams and Air Pitt. Between the items the Bishop and Airs AVest-AI atson made everyone feel quite at home and moving through the throng met most of those present. One could hardly think it possible, with such a brief time to spare, for anyone to leave behind so many kind thoughts and words. Supper was served about 10 o’clock, and again tlie arrangements made Air and Mrs Peebles, reflected credit on them. The good things prepared were done ample justice to and all had that comfortable go-to-bed feeling afterwards.

Before departing! the Afavor. Afr Evans, thnqkfd Afr and Airs Peebles for the kindness they had shown and the trouble they had taken to make the evening the success it had been. The evening closed with Auld Lang Syne.

" The Bishop left for the north next morning and the best wishes of all went with him and his wife.