National Day of Prayer in Feilding

Manawatu Times, Volume 67, Issue 111, 4 September 1942, Page 6

National Day of Prayer in Feilding

The National Day of Prayer was observed in Feilding- yesterday by all the Churches as well as by a special united intercession service held at the Tivoli Theatre which was attended by a large number of people. The Deputy-Mayor (Mr H. J. Dewe) presided at the citizens service which was opened with the congregation standing and observing a minutes silence. The local Ministers then conducted the service, those taking part being the Ven. Archdeacon F. H. Petrie (St. John’s Anglican Church), Rev. A. L». Dixon (St. Paul’s Presbyterian Church), Pvev. W. T. Blight (Methodist Church), Rev. B. F. Carlisle (Baptist Church) and Major Neeve (Salvation Army).

The attendance at the services particularly the United Intercession Service reflected a consciousness in the public of the threat in this Axis-made war to this Christian civilisation, as well as an acknowledgment of the necessity of prayer for the success of our arms. The service was eloquent in its simplicity and divided into three sections, Penitence, Petition and Thanksgiving, the prayers for each made a deep appeal and impression. The Rev. Blight offered the prayer of Penitence, the Ven. Archdeacon Petrie that of Petition and the Rev. Carlisle that of Thanksgiving. The first Scripture reading Psalm 46 was taken by Major Neeve and the second, the Gospel according to St. Peter, chap. 2, verses 7 to 17, by the Rev. Dixon. The music for the singing of the following Hymns was supplied by the Salvation Army Band, “Awake My Soul,”

“Jesus Lover of My Soul,” “Eternal Father Strong to Save” and “Holy B'ather in Thy Mercy.” Concluding at one o'clock the gathering dispersed after singing the National Anthem.

Most of the business houses of the town closed during the lunch hour to enable their staffs to attend the service.