St. Josebh's Church.

Te Aroha News, Volume XIV, Issue 2081, 1 March 1898, Page 2

St. Josebh's Church.

On Sunday morning last the ordinance of confirmation was administered by the Right Reverend Bishop of Auckland (Dr Lenihan), at St Joseph’s Church to thirteen girls and nine boys In an eloquent disc lurse His Lordship referred in touching terms to the custom of the Romish Church of offering up prayers for the dead. They were unable to visit the resting places of their departed friends, but he would ask the congregation to join in the special pravers fob those who had gone before the judgment seat of God. He also asked them to join in prayer for the deceased bishops of that diocese. Speaking of the work of the priests he explained the divisions of a diocese and the work involved in their supervision. Then His Lordship proceeded to explain the object and purpose of the ordinance of confirmation. It was gratifying to be able to report, he continued, f'lvourably on the subject of the children’s knowledge of their cateihism. Later His Lordship spoke very impressively to the- children about the cares and troubles the future probably held for them. The choir, which was assisted by Miss Fitzpatrick and Mr Scholium, who sang a wellknown; duet, and Mrs Truscoct, rendered good service. Miss Faes presided at ih > organ with her usual good I taste and ability. The' Church was crowded and m ny were compelled to stand throughout the service.. • The Bishop preached again in the evening, when he was presented with an address by Mr Joseph Hickson, from the members of the Te Aroha Church.