THE DEPARTURE OF THE REV. JOHN FERGUSON.

Southern Cross, Volume 2, Issue 15, 14 July 1894, Page 9

THE DEPARTURE OF THE REV. JOHN FERGUSON.

(By Vox.)

Invercargill has suffered a serious loss in the translation of the Rev. John Ferguson for Sydney. His removal, though long expected, is a sudden shock to many of us, since for so many years his presence in our streets made him part of our little town. The first act of the public drama of

his departure wai performed in the Theatre Royal on Sunday evening last, when the rev. gentleman preached his farewell sermon. The gathering was an unique one, such as that building has but seldom seen. Long before 6 p.m. there was a drift of pedestrians towards Dee-sk, but as the opening hour of the service arrived, a steady stream flowed into the Theatre, and by 6.30p.m. the building was crowded to overflowing —a striking testimony to the esteem in which Mr Ferguson is held by, the people of Southland. Southland , I say advisedly, for many country residents faced the inclement weather in order to hear the last public utterance of the popular clergyman of the First Church. It is not my intention to hear epitomise the discourse, suffice it for me to state that the sermon, a long one, but far from tiresome, contained what will -long live in the memories of his auditors as a bright gem of pulpit oratory—the incident of the Highland boy’s return home too late. In breathless silence the vast concourse listened eagerly to the eloquent and pathetic narrative, and at its close not a few eyes were moist. On Tuesday evening theiChurch was crowded to excess with a large and sympathetic gathering to wish the rev. gentleman “God-speed.” Their good wishes took the shape of a handsome address, with tangible proof of their good feeling in a well-tilled purse of sovereigns. Other gifts from various church organisations were also presented. There was not the least discordant note to mar the harmony of the proceedings. Regrets, many and sincere, for the loss Invercargill was about to sustain, were expressed, but all were pleased at Mr Ferguson’s many and eminent abilities having a wider field offered for their useful employment. During his fourteen years’ sojourn among us he has proved him self an excellent clergyman, and, if possible, even a better citizen. In every movement for the moral, intellectual, or social improvement of the people, old or young, he was ever ready to lend a helping hand. Courageously, too, he took his place in the front rank, and both as organiser and worker did he do his work right yeomanly. His place is now empty, but what is our loss is gain to a large city, which furnishes him with ample field for the display of his talents. Ours is to regret his loss, and to seek, vainly I fear, for another to fill his place.