POOR OUTLOOK

Hokitika Guardian, 22 March 1933, Page 8

POOR OUTLOOK

METHODIST MINISTERS’ FUTURE

DEPRESSION IN VICTORIA

MELBOURNE, March 16

The future of 31 young ministers in excess of normal requirements in Victoria and Tasmania gave’ rise to serious discussion at the Methodist Conference.

A special committee . reported that a serious position had been created by the reception in past years of candidates beyond the needs of the Church. This was yet another mani- . festation of the effects of widespread depression. The- most difficult years would he 1935-36-37,' and it was estimated that in these years some qualified young ministers would not be able to prdcure full status .circuits. In order to relieve the situation it was recommended that wherever possible circuits take married ministers, that as far os possible remaining ministers be provided for by. raising married home missionaries’ status to full circuit status with adequate grants, and that additional openings be sought in larger circuits. At least£3ooo a year additional would be needed, and the proposals would represent a fairly permanent obligation for many years to come. 'No temporary measure would meet the case. Afttr the case had been stated by the Rev. T. C. Rentoul, the aforementioned recommendations were adopted. Mr Rentoul said they were asking for an additional contribution of 7fd a month per Church member in order to provide for these young ministers. They regarded this amount as reasonable. These surplus ministers were received seven years ago when times were flourishing.