FAREWELL TO REV. AND MRS. HARDING.

Manawatu Herald, Volume XLIII, Issue 2263, 14 April 1921, Page 3

FAREWELL TO REV. AND MRS. HARDING.

The Methodist congregation tendered a farewell social to the Rev. A. and Mrs Harding in the church last night. There was a good attendance, including members of other churches. The Mayor (Mr John Chrvstall) presided, and apologised for, the absence of the Rev. W. Walton (Anglican) and Mr L. Bullard, circuit steward. After dovolioual exercises, the Chairman, referring to the object of flic gathering, paid a tribute to the splendid work done by the Rev. and Mrs Harding, which was keenly appreciated by church members throughout Ihe circuit. During Mr Harding’s ministry, covering a period of four \ears, there had been a marked improvement in the several departments of the church’s activities, He also stressed the good work done by the Rev. and Mrs Harding during Ihe influenza epidemic. The Mayor voiced the general regret of the church at Mr and Mrs- Harding’s departure, and wished them every success and God speed in their new circuit.

On behalf of the church officials, Mr M. 11. Walker, society steward, presented Mr Harding with a bonus of £25 as a tangible appreciation of his services. He said that the circuit was in a better financial position to-day than for many years past, having a credit balance in hand of over £SO, credit for which was in a great measure due to their departing minister and Mrs Harding. He also endorsed the Chairman-' remarks in reference to the good wishes of office-bearers qml congregation in reference to Mr Hardings’ future. The Rev. Mr Hallidav (Presbyterian) expressed pleasure at being present to do honour to the Rev. Harding, at the same time he expressed regret at his departure. He referred to the many happy hours he and Mr Harding had spent together, and assured Mr Harding that lie was leaving a number of warm hearts in Foxton outside the Methodist community, and many persons would thank God for the day that Mr Harding was sent to foxton. He prayed that God would hie— Mr and Mrs Harding, and wished them every happiness and prosperity in their new circuit. At this juncture the Chairman presented Mrs Harding, on behalf of the congregation, with a handsome silver tea pot and sugar basin. In doing so he made eulogistic reference to the excellent services and hearty co-operation of Mrs Harding in all matters connected with the spiritual and social life of the church.

In the course of his reply and acknowledgment of the kinds words spoken and tokens of esteem, the Rev. Harding said his four years in Foxton had been one of the happiest periods during the whole course of his ministry. He thanked all on behalf of Mrs Harding aiut himself, and in many ways regretted to say good-bye. He prayed that the Divine blessing would rest upon the people and church, and upon the work of his successor.

During the evening items were contributed by Messrs Scolley, Bettv, Head and Moorman.

After the Benediction by the Rev. Mr Hallidav, supper was handed round by the. ladies, and the usual votes of thanks concluded a most enjoyable and harmonious function.