DISTRICT NEWS

Kaipara and Waitemata Echo, 18 November 1915, Page 3

DISTRICT NEWS

KAUKAPAKAPA

[OWN CORRESPONDENTS |

A Church welcome-home was given to Private Howie-Drinnan in the Kaukapakapa Methodist Church on the Sunday morning after his arrival. Mr and Mrs Robert Drinnan, Miss Drinnan, Corporal W. A. Drinnan, Howie, and his younger brother occupied a front seat, and there was a large attendance. Mrs Bellini sang "Abide with Me." Speaking on the -words, " God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in time of trouble," the Rev. J. A. Lamond said:—" The soldiers on the battle-field to-day are still strong, ready, and hopeful. But it is a hard battle for our men at the front. We know it is hard for our New Zealand men at the Dardanelles; many of them, have been killed, wounded, or are missing or sick; but they have been true and faithful to the best ideals of their race; their hearts have beat loyal and true every

step of ( 'the way.

And although

the mighty ocean rolled between them and home, yet for loye of home and love of right, they stayed on and fought, so that we might live and be safe from the enemy. And they are there in discomfort and danger > they have no home, nor the' comforts ofhome, but we have all these blessings still. Good men they are,brave and true: we'll thank them, and will be glad when we've done our best for them. Some have "come home, sick or wounded, but only to return again. But some are NOT, because they have loved us to the very death ; their blood has been spilt, and their life given for us. What more could they do ? And all the Nation whispers her appreciation in heartfelt tears. They gave their life and did their best. And'in this have followed Jesus closely ; they loved Him most, because they have loved us most. Their death in Europe is a protest against mistakes of men in Europe. Having heard their Nation's righteous call to protect the weak and. downtrodden, and to safeguard the peace of all the world, they went forth in the true Christian spirit of self-sacrifice. The best comfort for all who mourn their loss is the fact that these brave men died as Christians —fearless of death and hopeful of a bright future. God is now their refuge and strength. May God grant them to know the joys of Heaven, and the life eternal in Christ, for the life that they have lost." '