FAREWELL TO MINISTER

Sun (Auckland), Volume IV, Issue 943, 9 April 1930, Page 7

FAREWELL TO MINISTER

BIRKENHEAD FUNCTION The Methodist Hall at Birkenhead was crowded last evening, when the district Methodist circuit arranged a farewell social to the Rev. J. H. Allen and Mrs. Allen, who have been appointed to the Remuera Methodist Church. Musical items were given by Miss L. Hendra, Miss L. Sharp, Miss E. Berry and Mr. S. Carter, also the choir, under the conductorship of Mr. J. Wright. Mr. T. W. Hemer presided. Mr. A. N. Wilson, representing Glenfield, spoke regretting Mr. Allen’s leaving, and wished him prosperity. Mr. E. Taylor extended best wishes on behalf of Birkdate. Mr. F. A. Sharp spoke on behalf of Northcote, and referred to • the hard task Mr. Allen lias had in his four years as minister. The church had gradually forged ahead, the Bible classes had doubled in strength, and the spiritual outlook was most gratifying. Mr. A. ITadfield, on behalf of Birkenhead, said Mr. Allen had been an excellent preacher, and wished Mr. and Mrs. Allen every happiness. Mrs. Virtue also spoke on behalf of the women of the circuit. Mr. Allen Wilson, the circuit steward, on behalf of the circuit, presented Mr. Allen with a substantial cheque. It was given, he said, as a slight token of the high esteem in which. Mr. Allen was held in the circuit as a man. as well as a minister. Mr. Wilson also spoke of the good work done by Mrs. Allen in visiting the sick and the hospital, and of her great hospitality. The Sunday School presented to Mrs. Allen’s four children a Bible each. Mr. Allen, in returning thanks, spoke of the hearty co-operation he had received in the four years he had been in the district. Mrs. Allen also expressed her appreciation and thanks.