FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH

Southland Times, Issue 24819, 11 August 1942, Page 4

FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH

ANNUAL MEETING OF CONGREGATION The eighty-second annual business meeting and social gathering of the Congregation of First Presbyterian Church was held in Stobo Hall last evening. There was a very good attendance of members and friends, the Rev. J. A. Thomson presiding. The report of session was presented by Mr W. Famie, who briefly reviewed the work of the church for the past year. The report showed that there were 636 members on the communion roll and that 68 young men either were, or had been, overseas on war service. Although Mr Thomson had been absent on military service, the services had been well maintained by visiting members of the Southland Presbytery.

The report of the Deacons' Court, presented by the treasurer (Mr A. W. Jones) disclosed that finances were in a buoyant condition, the congregation being practically free of debt.

At the social gathering Mr Thomson was supported by the Mayor (Mr A. Wachner) and the Rev. C. J. Tocker, the interim moderator, both of whom gave interesting addresses. Mr Thomson outlined his work as chaplain to the Southland Regiment and thanked all who had contributed to the success of the congregation. The proceedings were interspersed by solos by Miss Grace Hunter, Master A. Laing, Mr Cyril Ashley and Mr G. Paterson.