HAMPDEN.

Oamaru Mail, Volume IV, Issue 1319, 13 December 1880, Page 2

HAMPDEN.

(from a correspondent. ) December 13. The Presbyterian congregation at Hampden held their anniversary soiree in the church on the evening of Thursday, the 9th inst. The attendance was very good, and the weather was all that could be desired: The Rev. J. Summers presided. After old and young had partaken ol the good things so amply provided by the ladies, the Chairman made a few remarks, in which he congratulated the people on the progress made during. the year. The addresses which followed were all of an interesting and profitable character. The Rev. J. Christie, Waikouaiti, addressed the people on " Govetousness the Rev. J. Ryley, Otepopo, expatiated on the importance of " Co-operation in the Church j" and the Rev. A. B. Todd, Oaraaru, spoke on "Christian Sympathy." Without previous arrangement, the subjects of address fitted well in with each other, both in their nature and manner of treatment. During the evening several pieces of music were sung by the choir, which greatly enhanced the enjoyment of the evening, Mrs. Watt presided at the harmonium. At the close the usual votes 1 of thanks were tendered, and the people dispersed to their several homes a little after 10 o'clock, both pleased and profited, the interest of the meeting having been sustained to the end.

On the following day, according to appointment, the Sabbath School held their annual pic-nio. The children met at 10.§0 a.m. in the church, and, after a few remarks from the minister, they walked in procession to the manse with flags flying. The place behind the manse was admirably adapted for the purpose, being a small clearing with verdant sward, commanding a fine prospect of the lovely landscape around. A goodly number of parents and friends of the children joined the company during the day, and altogether there must have been about 200 present. As usual they ate and drank to their heart's content, and enjoyed themselves in various innocent games. At the close the Rev. Mr. Todd, of Oamaru, briefly addressed the parents and children. The pastor wound up by thanking the people' of Hampden in general and his own people in particular for all the kindness shown both at the soiree and pic-nic. The ex-Mayor proposed a vote of thanks to the minister, which was heartily given, and thus closed a very agreeable meeting.