SHANNON METHODIST CHURCH.

Manawatu Herald, Volume XXXII, Issue 907, 20 October 1910, Page 3

SHANNON METHODIST CHURCH.

Although not quite complete in all the details uf tbe renovation scheme, the reopening services uf this church were held on Sunday last. The Rev. J. Clover, of Halcombe, chairman of the district, conducted three services during the day, taking as his subject in the the morning “Spiritual Worship.” The afternoon service was for the Sunday School children, their parents and teachers, when a graphic and telling address was delivered on “ The Chain of Destiny,” made more realistic by the exhibiting of an iron chain by way of illustration, each link being noted one by one, as standing for a connecting link in human experience, thought, desire and purpose. Cloudy weather did not prevent a good congregation assembling iu the evening when a very impressive sermon on “ Blessed are the Pure in Heart,” was followed by a hearty and stirring Methodist prayer meeting. A cordial invitation to come forward for prayer and guidance to those who wished to accept the Lord Jesus Christ, as their Saviour and King was responded to by some eight or nine persons. These enquiries were spoken to by the preacher and Sister Moody . Bell, Sincere thankfulness was felt by the local workers of the church, that the re-opening services should be honoured by God’s blessing. The tea meeting held last evening was one of the old fashioned style of Methodist teas. Some 120 persons sat down to partake of the good things provided by the ladies. The after meeting was presided over by the Rev. P. J. Mairs, the church being crowded. Reference was made by the Chairman to the position of the church three years ago aud the position to-day, aud complimented them on the fact that the outlook was bright and promising, not only financially and commercially, but the spiritual tone of the church was helpful to those whose privilege it was to minister. Speeches were also delivered by Mr A. Saunders, who has been officially identified with the church for 19 years as teacher and superintendent, aud Sister Bell whose energy and devotion in the interest of the church and Sunday School is much appreciated iu Shannon, spoke of the great need of prayer aud devotion, and entreated the parents to see that the children received all the encouragement possible iu their home life. Rev. J. Clover gave a stirring and inspiring address on “Left Handed Christians,” and appealed for an all round Christianity, which would effect ones life at every point and which was the only true source of peace, happiness aud contentment. Mr Judd read the financial statement in connection with the renovations, which showed that the cost of the renovation to date was ,£7O, of which ,£SO is already in hand, leaving a deficiency of £,20. There are a few promised donations yet to come in. These, with the bright outlook, preseut uo difficulty, and hopes are entertained that in the very near future, a clean balance-sheet may be presented.

Solos were sung by Mrs Gibson, Miss Laurvig, aud Mr Mairs. The tea tables were presided over by a humber of ladies. The singing of the doxology brought to a close one of the most successful tea meetings ever held in Shauuon.