HARVEST FESTIVAL.

Te Aroha News, Volume VI, Issue 351, 16 March 1889, Page 2

HARVEST FESTIVAL.

A very interesting and successful Harvest Festival, or thanksgiving service, was held last Monday evening in the Paeroa Wesleynn Church. During the afternoon willing hands were busy decorating:, and arranging matters for the evening. A large and handsome mot to, '• Thou Crownest The Year with Thy Goodness," reaohed nearly across the wall behind the rostrum. The rostrum was very prettily decorated. A sheaf of oats stood at either angle, while spr ading from side to side was an arch of " willows from the brook," relieved by sprays of oats and gay flowers. In front of the cabinet organ was another motto, " Seedtime and Harvest " The walls were arrayed with beautiful specimens of the tree-fern and the nikau palm. On each side of the rostrum was a long table, laden with the thankofferings of the people. The fruits of the garden and the field were strongly represented, while such items as mutton, butter, and honey in sections, gave variety to the scene, and prevented fruit and vegetables from havall their own monotonous way. During the evening the Church was filled to overflowing with an interested congregation. Hymns, etc., appropriate to the occasion were sung, and an address on " The Harvest as Illustrating God's Providence," was delivered by the Rev S. Lawry. At the close of the service an opportunity was given to those who had not contributed in kind to do so in hard cash ; and the goodly collection of thank* offerings on the tables were quickly disposed of to ready buyers. The proceeds were devoted to the funds of the Upper Thames Wesleyan Circuit, which will be thereby benefited to the extent of between three and four pounds. If will be seen by advertisement that a similar festival is to be held at the Te Aroha Wesleyan Church next Wednesday evening ; when we hope there will be at least an equally successful gather* ing.