WESLEYAN CHURCH.

South Canterbury Times, Issue 2888, 28 June 1882, Page 2

WESLEYAN CHURCH.

Tim anniversary of the above Church was celebrated last evening by a gather, ing of members and friends in the Schoolroom. The tables were presided over by Mesdames Holdgate, Jackson, Storm, Bargefrede, Dale, Sherratt, and Miss Warrington ; and the bachelors’ table by the Misses Foster, Turner, and Clarke. About 250 sat down, and judging from the sounds of merriment, thoroughly enjoyed themselves. An adjournment was made to the Churah just before 8 o’clock, the building being speedily filled. The Rev. Mr Beck stated that ho would, on behalf of the trustees, submit a short report of the past year, and referred to the gratifying financial prosperity that had attended the efforts of the official members of the Church ; ascribing to the revivalist spirit that had pervaded a portion of the community, a large share in the honor of the result. The roll of membership showed an unmistakeable increase, and it would bo gratifying to all when bo announced that only five seats in the Church remained available for letting. Increased accommodation would very shortly be necessary, and he asked the congregation to second the efforts of the trustees in this direction. The programme was an exceptionally long one, and no addresses would be delivered that evening in consequence. The choir, under the able leadership of Mr Gilchrist, commenced the concert with the anthem, “ Lift up your Heads,” This and the succeeding anthems, were well given, care being observed in the matter of both time and music.

The introduction of music of a high class is a departure from established custom that is worthy of every encouragement. The promoters of last evening’s entertainment gathered their rnorccaux. from a wide field, the “ Messiah," “ Creation,” “ Samson,” and “Judas Maccabeus,” being laid under contribution. Mrs Holdgatc, the Misses Innes, Haigh and Warrington and Messrs 11. Foster and Warrington severally singing from these fine oratorios. The rendering of this by no means easy music was, for amateurs, exceptionally good, and well worthy of the occasion. The secular portion of the concert was given by Misses Clark, MuskerandMrNapier. It wasrequested at the commencement that no encores should be demanded,but the capital singing of “ The Beacon Bright ” (Miss Musker), and the duet “Vital Spark” (Misses L. and K.Haigh),elicited a weli-desorvod recall, the deep, contralto of Miss K. Haigh being especially noticeable. One of the most successful anniversary meetings of this church was terminated about 10 o’clock by the Benediction. Miss Ik L. Ball, with her well-known ability, accompanied the singers throughout, on Mr Jackson’s fine-toned organ, kindly lent for the occasion. Considerable regret was expressed at the somewhat indecorous behaviour of two or three young men, who appeared regardless of 'the annoyance their conduct caused to other people.