Y.M.C.A. EVANGELIST.

Manawatu Standard, Volume XLV, Issue 128, 4 May 1925, Page 11

Y.M.C.A. EVANGELIST.

MR VIRGO'S 40 YEARS WORK. STILL YOUNG AT SIXTY. LONDON, April 18. Extraordinary tributes to fhe work of Mr J. J Virgo, formerly of Sydney, and now honorary world’s representative of the Y.M.C.A., were paid at the complimentary lunch given by Mr Howard Williams, ch.lirm.ln of 'he Y.M.C.A. British Empire Union. Messages were read from all parts of the world, including Australia and New Zealand, emphasising Mr Virgo's genius for organisation, and his influence on youths throughout the Empire. “It was a happy day for Britain when Mr Virgo was transferred from Australia.” said Mr Williams. “He would spend his last shilling to help anyone down and out. I am glad to announce that, though he is retiring after 40 years' service, he will not be hat to Y.M.C A. work.” Mr Henry Perrin, acting-chairman of the board of management, said that Mr Virgo had brought with him the new world’s way of looking at old problems. “EMPIRE’S GREATEST TRAVELLER.” Mr Virgo is the youngest 60-year-older in the world, said Mr Chamberlain, secretary of the national council of the Y.M.C.A. He had been a Christian evangelist in all parts of the world, and had conducted seven great tours, which had prompted the King to describe him as the Empire’s greatest traveller. He never did, anything better than his after-war work in Australia in combating adverse criticism. The Australian High Commissioner (Sir Joseph Cook) also paid a tribute. In reply, Mr Virgo said that he had retired voluntarily at the age of 60 rather than do so compulsorily at 65, because his doctor had warned him that a slackening of activity was imperative. He would be prepared to resume work in the winter.