Waikato Churchmen Oppose Innovations

Sun (Auckland), Volume II, Issue 363, 25 May 1928, Page 1

Waikato Churchmen Oppose Innovations

NEW SOCIETY FORMED address by clergyman (From Our Own Correspondent) HAMILTON, Thursday. With the object of ensuring that the teachings of the Church of England should be preserved, a Churchmen's Society was formed this evening at a well-attended meeting of parishioners of Hamilton, Frankton, and out-districts. At the annual meeting of parishioners last month a “tickets" constituting the majority of the chapter, was elected, with the object of bringing about changes in the services in accordance with the wishes of the parishioners. The chapter has since been engaged on this work, and several lengthy meetings have been held. This evening an address was given on the growth of the Anglo-Catholic movement hy the Rev. F. H. Spencer, who urged the people to stand by the Book of Common Prayer, and resist the introduction of doctrines and practices in the services which were contrary to the teaching of that book. Mr. Spencer said all eyes were on Hamilton, and that the church people of New Zealand were looking to Hamilton for a lead. Those present were unanimous in their opinion that recent innovations in the services were not those of the Church of England. Quotations were read from books which Bishop Cherrington was stated to have recommended church adherents to read, in which confession and the use of vestments were described. The formation of a churchmen’s society in Hamilton, with the object of ensuring that the teachings of the Church of England should be observed, was decided upon, and a provisional committee set up.

A* expression of opinion regarding the objects of the society will he obtained at a general meeting to bo held shortly. All present joined the society, and it was decided to purchase suitable literature, so that churchmen will know what really is taught by the Church of England.