VISIT OF THE PRIMATE OF NEW ZEALAND.

Kumara Times, Issue 184, 7 May 1877, Page 2

VISIT OF THE PRIMATE OF NEW ZEALAND.

Yesterday eveniug, at about half-past five o'clock, His Lordship the Right Revd. Dr. Harper, Bishop of Christchurch, accompanied by the Revd. H. JVC. Gilbert, arrived in ELumara, by the coach from Hokitika. He was received by the members of the Church Committee, at Spiudeler's Crown Hotel where arrangements had been made for his fitting accommodation. After a brief rest and partaking of some refreshment, His Lordship went to the Theatre Royal where the Evening Service was conducted The Revd. Mr Gilbert read the lessons. At the conclusion of the ordinary service, the Bishop delivered an impressive and instructive address, the subject of which, being the solemn rite of Confirmation, was appropriate to the occasion. His Lordship administered the rite to the candidates, fifteen in number, of whom eight were females. These were tastefully dressed in white, and wore bridal wreaths and veils. During the address, and especially during the ceremony, the most profound silence was noticeable in * the building, which was densely packed by a reverential though interested audience. This morning an early celebration took place at the Court House. It was numerously attended, and the Sacrament of the Lord's Supper was partaken of by thirty two of the congregation. To-day is to be devoted to showing his Lordship the Lead, and to-night he will be present at the concert, the attractive programme for which appears in another column. Yesterday morning, the Bishop officiated at two celebrations in Stafford, one at 8 o'clock the other at 11 o'clock. ■At the first, communion was administered to a large number. To-morvow evening Dr. Harper will confirm a number of candidates at Stafford. The service will commence at halt-past seven.