PRESENTATION.

Hauraki Plains Gazette, Volume XXXVIII, Issue 5147, 4 July 1927, Page 3

PRESENTATION.

FAREWELL AT PAPATOETOE. Prior to his departure, Mr R. Henderson, who has taken up his residence in Paeroa, was entertained at a choir social held in- St. John’s Prpsbyterian Hall, Papatoetoe; on Tuesday last. There was a large attendance of church folk and friends, and occasion was taken to present Mr Henderson with a very handsome and useful gift.

Mr Jas. McFarlane, session clerk, made the presentation, and .said it wa.s difficult to express just what the choir and church felt at losing the person and services of Mr, Henderson. For some time, stated the speaker, Mr Henderson had been a tower of strength in .St. John’s choir, being the leading tenor. He was held In high esteem, ,not only for. his untiring and willing aid with his voice and the work he has done for the church outside, but fpr what he is. They would ask him to accept a little gift as a token of their warm regard and gratitude for what he had done for them. They wished him Godspeed and prosperity, mingled with the hope that some day he would be with thefn again. Their loss was Paeroa’s gain.

.. Mr Henderson, on rising to reply, was greeted in no stinted manner. He thanked all for their beautiful gift, as he knew it carried with it the true ring of sincerity. He said he would treasure it not only for its value, but as a reminder of .the happy hours they had spent together. The speaker said he had no thought of reward for anything he had done. The pleasure of singing with them had recompensed l)im, apd as the congregation had appreciated his. combined efforts the I'ecompense had been doubled. He .felt very much the parting from t,he church friends and choir- chums, and trusted the time would come when he would again join with them in the work. he loved.