ALL SAINTS’ PARISH.

Manawatu Herald, Volume XXXV, Issue 1159, 16 October 1913, Page 2

ALL SAINTS’ PARISH.

Ou Tuesday last a musical and social evening was given in All Saints’ Schoolroom to meet Archdeacon Harper. The musical programme was arranged by Mr R. T. Betty and every item was highly appreciated. The vicar introduced the Archdeacon, who was received with applause. In a most interesting and instructive speech Archdeacou Harper dealt chiefly with the social service of the Diocese and explained that the church was doing splendid rescue work and helping hundreds of children in their homes. He gave a graphic account of the slum life in Wellington, and over-crowding in certain parts, and illustrated his remarks by stories of his own experiences. He then went on to speak about the gaols and related some experiences in connection therewith. He said the church was trying to do what she could to help the unfortunates in this world, and in this work she spent several thousands annually. His remarks on church-going were very forcible and he stressed the selfiishness of those who stopped away. Those who attended church, he said, were not only helping themselves but others as their example was a good influence. The more people who were present at a service the heartier the service was, for he added, there is a power in numbers and it brings out the best both in priest and people. Those who stopped away from church were selfish—they were not only depriving themselves but others of something which was of the greatest blessing. A man was not to think of himself, he owed a duty to his fellowman, his presence at church was of the greatest help to others and an influence for the greatest good. The Archdeacon then went on to speak of the Marsden Centenary, which was to take place in 1914. He said this would be the first centenary held in New Zealand, and it would celebrate the coming of Christianity to these shores and the beginning of civilisation in the Dominion, He explained that the bishops had met in Wellington and arrangements would be made how the centenary would be celebrated. Marsden preached the first sermon ever beard in New Zealand ou Christmas Day and his text was the message of that great festival, “Behold I bring you good tidings of great joy.” After the Archdeacon’s speech refreshments were handed round and the singing of the National Anthem brought a pleasant evening to a close. Those who contributed to the musical part of the evening were : Mesdames Boyes, J. Robinson, Freeman, Miss Signal and Messrs Fenwick, Collins, Jenks and the Glee Party.