VALEDICTORY SOCIAL.

Manawatu Herald, Volume XXXVII, Issue 1433, 5 August 1915, Page 2

VALEDICTORY SOCIAL.

A valedictory social was tendered to the Rev J. M. and Mrs Thomson by members and adherents of the local Presbyterian' Church, in the schoolroom on Tuesday evening. There was a large attendance, and included among those present were representatives of other churches. The platform was tastefully decorated, and was occupied by the guests, the Rev Mr Ralne (Anglican), Rev Mr Rowe (Methodist), Messrs Speirs and Hornblow. The latter presided. After formally opening the proceedings, the Chairman called upon Miss I, Patterson to present Mrs Thomson with a tastefully arranged basket of flowers. The Chairman briefly referred to Mr Thomson’s departure and his work during the period of his ministry. Mr T. Henderson spoke on behalf of the managers, and referred to the causes which led up lo Mr Thomson’s withdrawal, and the faithful manner in which he had discharged the duties of his office, and wished him success in his new sphere of labour. The Chairman referred to the work of the Cadies’ Guild both socially and financially in connection with the church, and to the esteem in which Mrs Thomson was held as tire Guild’s president. On behalf of the ladies of the congregation he called upon Mrs Maiidl to present Mrs Thomson with a token of their esteem. Mrs Matull, in a neat little speech, asked Mrs Thomson to accept a hand hag, and expressed regret at her departure, and conveyed to her the kindly feelings of the ladies for her future. Mrs Thomson feelingly acknowledged the gift. Mr Chrystall, representing the lay preachers, added his regret at Mr Thomson’s departure, and paid a glowing tribute to Mrs Thomson. Mr Alex. Speirs, on behalf of the congregation, asked Mr Thomson to accept a purse of sovereigns as a tribute from the congregation. He also endorsed the remarks of the other speakers. The recipient, in acknowledging the presentations on behalf of himself and wife, thanked the congregation and speakers for their kindly relerences and the feelings which prompted the gifts. During his residence in Foxton he had made many friends, and his residence here would always remain a pleasant memory. The Rev Mr Raine, in wishing Mr Thomson success iu bis future work, referred to the inner life of a parson, and the necessity of the congregation’s sympathy and prayers and hearty co-operation. The Rev Mr Rowe said after listening to the previous speaker’s eloquent remarks, they should deeply ponder on them to their advantage. He proffered some kindly advice to those present, and added his testimony to Mr Thomson’s work, and good wishes for his future. Mr J. H. Claris, secretary, also spoke briefly. Two little girls, class mates of the minister’s children, handed an autograph album, signed by members of the class to Miss Pearl Thomson, and a silver pencil holder to Master Andrew Thomson. Mr Thomson acknowledged the gifts, and apologised for the unavoidable absence, ou account of sickness, of the recipients. The following contributed items, which were much appreciated:—Mrs Boyes, Miss Jenks, Messrs Aitken, Buglass, Collins and Claris. After refreshments had been handed round, the function closed with the singing of the National Anthem.