VALEDICTORY.

Manawatu Herald, Volume XLV, Issue 2543, 15 February 1923, Page 2

VALEDICTORY.

SOCIAL AND PRESENTATION TO FATHER FOR RESTALL. It docs not seem long ago since the late revered Father Dore introduced his frien'd, the Rev 1 .;: Father Forrest-all, at a local public gathering as his successor. Yet five years have slipped away and Father Dore has “gone.to that bourne whence no traveller returns.” In taking over the Foxton parish, which embraces Shannon and Tokomaru, Father Forresta.il came as a stranger, but he entered whole-heartedly into his work and soon made himself known and respected by parishionrs and non-Catholics alike. In cases of distress, religious differences was no barrier to the dictates of his sympathetic nature. As a citizen he look an unostentatious interest in the welfare of the town. He was outspoken in manner and could not tolerate sham or humbug. When his transfer was notified general regret was expressed at his departure. The parishioners of St. Marv’s were determined that he should not depart without some tangible expression of their good will and he was tendered a social and made the recipient of a purse of sovereigns on Tuesday evening in St. Mary’s schoolroom. The interior of the room was tastefully decorated and included among those present were non-Catliolic representative townspeople. Mr Margin presided and Mr Carmine made an efficient master of ceremonies and was responsible for the excellent vocal and instrumental programme.

At a suitable juncture Mr Bergin referred to the object of the gathering. He said while they regretted the guest’s departure they were pleased to know that he was going to a wider parish. Wjien Father Forrestall took charge of the Foxlon parish he was faced with a debt but he was leaving them free of liability. Tie spoke of his devotion to his sacred duties and his sterling finalities as a man. As a tangible mark of esteem from parishioners and non-Catholics he asked the guest to accept a- purse of sovereigns. In conclusion he wished Father Forrestall happiness in his new parish and assured him of the prayers of his Foxton parishioners. Father Forrestall, who was received with a hearty outburst of applause, sincerely thanked Mr Bergin for the kindly references. He said such a gathering that night made him feel it was worth while going away for. Speaking seriously he said that he would have lifVn content to remain in !•', xtoii and have his hones laid to rest side bv side with his old friend the late Father Dore. He was particularly gratified to see non-Catholics among those present, lie regretted that there were not more opportunities for social intercourse where all could meet and where little misunderstandings would fade away. He thanked all parishioners and non-Catholics for their assistance in enabling him to clear the parish of debt. Since his residence among them he was sensible of many a Ms. of kindness and hospitality which would remain a.s a pleasant memory. He had endeavoured to do his duty faithfully. Perhaps he had,been guilty of calling “a spade a spade” but this would continue until a spade dug Ids grave (laughter and applause). Prayer was one of the principal teachings of their church and he was pleased to know that he would have their prayers in his work. He thanked them all sincerely for the tangible appreciation of his modest efforts. Upon resuming his seat, those present broke into the chorus of “For lie’s a Jolly Good Fellow” followed by cheers. During the evening items were rendered by Mrs Delany, Misses Delany, Dunn (2), Follas, Messrs Hornblow, Follas, Carmont, T. and K. Carter, Jacobson and Golder.

At the conclusion the ladies of the congregation served a tasty supper. The Rev. Father Forrestall left Foxton for Inglewood yesterday morning.