New Sunday School.

Manawatu Herald, 22 August 1896, Page 2

New Sunday School.

In view of Tuesday's blocklaying, a school history may interest many of our readers. A Methodist Mission was commenced in Foxton in 1874 by the Rev. John Sfcandrin, of South Australia. Services were held in a small wooden building, the only place available, a good congregation was gathered, and a Sabbath School established. The energy of the preacher, and the interest of the people soon convinced the public that Methodism had come to stay. Messrs W. Port, F. Loudon, G. Adams, T. Bull, J. McCullocb, Crowther, Symons, and Kingswell held the honour of pioneer workers. Under Rev3. P. Jones, J Luke, W. Harris, and B. McLean the cause grew and prospered. On Good Friday, 1876, the present church was opened. Mr J. McCullocb, the late Mr C. Honore, and H. P. Forster have each in turn superintended the school, through which many residents in and around Foxton have graduated, and are now filling good positions and leading honourable lives. The present popular superintendent is MrE. Oaborne, who is assisted by a staff of 11 teach-' era— Mrs Gibson, Misses Austin, W. and N. Newth, Gibson, Simpson, Traek, McLean and Silby. The scholars' roll numbers 82. A new epoch in the history of the Methodist Church dates from next week, in the erection of a building 86ft x 24ft, to be used f >r the purposes of a school* room and social hall. The above statement, together with current press notices, circuit plan, etc., will be deposited in a sealed bottle and set in the scholars' block. The four corner blocks will be laid respectively by Mr G. Nye, architect and supervisor ; Mr E. Osborne, superintendent; Mr T. F. Gibßon, station steward, and the Sunday* School, who through Miss G. Walkft- will deposit £5 thereon. The offering taken during the ceremony will be laid on a block by and on be* 1 half of the congregation. The proceedings will commence at 2.30 prompt. The Revs. Duncan and Harper will speak. An original hymn, tune and recitation will be rendered, forty-two blocks laid, lollies for the children, and afternoon tea at a small charge for ladies and visitors. In the evening there will be a miscellaneous concert and a collection.