SIXTY-FIVE YEARS IN SERVICE OF CHURCH

Sun (Auckland), Volume II, Issue 415, 25 July 1928, Page 16

SIXTY-FIVE YEARS IN SERVICE OF CHURCH

NEW ZEALAND RECORD

PRESENTATIONS TO MR. F. ROWE

Sixty-five years’ service for the Newton Congregational Sunday School is the remarkable record of Mr. F. Rowe, superintendent. He has taught for 50 years at the school, and his sister for 35 years. Last evening he was met by over 100 members, past and present scholars, and friends of the church, and was made several presentations. Among those on the platform were the Rev. F. A. Thompson, president of the Auckland Sunday School Union; Mr. and Mrs. Rowe; Mr. Enoch Wood, one of the founders of the school; Mrs. M. Hobson; the Rev. L. B. Busfield, secretary of the union; and Mr. J. Bouskill, a school worker for many years. Mr. Rowe received the 50 years’ service diploma of the British National Sunday School Union. His sister, Mrs. Hobson, received the 35 years’ diploma. From the school came an illuminated address and photograph, and three books. Mr. Bouslcill presented a dressing-case to Mrs. Rowe. “It is unique in New Zealand for a church to hold the life-long loyalty of a member,” said the Rev. Mr. Busfield. “Such service requires mental and spiritual strength.” The Rev. Mr. Thompson added his congratulations, and Mr. Wood told of the early days of the school. Mr. Rowe was an old scholar of his. He gave advice to the young members of the congregation. Mr. Bouskill read several of 50 congratulatory messages from all parts of the world. One was from Sir James Parr, High Commissioner for New Zealand, in London. Hymns, prayers, and a social hour followed the presentations. Mr. Rowe has done excellent work in the school, and founded the boys’ brigade at the school. He has led the movement since 1907. He was made a justice of the peace in 1920, and was president of the Sunday School Union from 1919 to 1921. His service is a record for New Zealand.