REV. J. L. ROBINSON, B.A.

Stratford Evening Post, Volume XXV, Issue 32, 9 February 1915, Page 7

REV. J. L. ROBINSON, B.A.

The following from tlie “Outlook,” referring to a sou of Mr B• H. Robinson, of Stratford, will be ol interest to manv friends: —

“With much reluctance First ChureU Dunedin congregation, the mother church of Otago Presbyterianism, has parted with its assistant minister, the Hm, ,1. 1,. Robinson, 8.A., to a daughter church—Columba Church, Oamaru. First Church’s first experience of an assistant minister has in every way been a very happy one both to congregation and minister. Evidence of this is forthcoming in the minute of appreciation (beautifully engrossoed in booklet form and bound in morocco) as follows: “The Session of First Church accepts with keen regret the resignation of the Rev. J. Lawson Robinson, 11. A., as assistant minister, and wishes to place on record its appreciation of Mr Robinson’s work during his occupancy of the position, The Session would express its gratitude to Cod for one who, endowed with greatnatural gifts, has assiduously developed them and consecrated them so unreservedly to the advancement of tho Master’s Kingdom. Coming to his duties before tho completion of his Theological College course, three years ago in the vigour of enthusiasm of young manhood, Mr Robinson gave himself without stint to tho service of Christ in this congregation, and by virtue of,his usual gifts,coupled with tho charm of his persona! qualities, lie has won for himself universal regard and affection. As a pa?tor he has.brought cheer and comfort to many homes : as an organiser ho has shown 1 inability in several of the societies of the congregation, more particularly in connection with the young men, with whom he has had great influence. As a preacher he has uncommon powers of clear and interesting exposition, which have enabled him to conduct the services at our Russell street bran,eh with the greatest efficiency, and in the absence of our minister he is a welcome occupant of First Church pulpit. In all branches of the Church’s work he has been a source of strength to the congregation, and valued help of the minister. The Session commends Mr Robinson and his family to the loving care of our Heavenly Father, and prays that his life, so auspiciously begun, may he long spared and used increasingly for the glory of Cod and tin l winning of men for Jesus . Christ.”

OAMARU PR KSBYTERY. The fifth vacancy in the Presbytery within twelve months was most auspiciously filled on the 28th ult., by the ordination and induction of the Rev. J. L. Robinson, B A., lately assistant at First Church, Dunedin, A goodly gathering honored the eventful occasion. Rev. J. D. Wilson, interim Moderator, preached and presided, conducting the ordination ceremony with great impressiveness. Rev. John Davie addressed the new minister, and Rev. W. Nichol the congregation, who spoke to them as an old friend of 26 years standing. High iiopes are cherished as to the spiritual force that will be active in Oamaru through the ministry just inaugurated. Knox College men (of whom Mr Robinson is one) are now prominent in this Presbytery, half the'charges being manned by them, and they are all good men and true. An enthusiastic social was held in the Sunday School Hall in the, evening, when 18 speakers voiced a most cordial welcome to Mr Robinson. As a further mark of their welcome, the ladies of Columba Church Guild presented Mr Robinson with a beautiful silk pulpit gown.