NEW METHODIST CHURCH, CARRINGTON ROAD.

Taranaki Daily News, Volume XXXXV, Issue 189, 12 August 1903, Page 4

NEW METHODIST CHURCH, CARRINGTON ROAD.

= « Skryicks in connecti in with the opening of th 9 above place of worship were conducted last Sibbith, On each of the days fixed for the public functions in connection with this enterprise, viz., the stone-laying, opesing tea meeting, and first services, the weather has been ' impropitious. On Sunday heavy showers fell in the earlier part of the day, which continued during the afternoon and evening. These conditions had the effect of lessening the attendance at the services; indeed it became impossible for miny who had intended to be present to accomplish their desire. In the afternoon, the Rev. J. N. Battle conducted the service. In the opening prayer the Divine bless- ' ing was sought on the newly-erected sanctuary and the work which was to be carried on in connection therewith. The text was taken from I Ohroniclw, xxix. t.t. 10-19, the passage having reference to the preparation made by King Div'd and his people for the building of the temple. The preacher said that work was intended to give the outward form of worship a more permanent abode than that suggested by the worship of God in the TaterMcle; and was also a type of the establishment of Christ's spiritu il kingdom. J) vid's purpose was to have an abiding witness for God's holy name continually before the people, and in connection with which the truth of God night be made known to all. The ancient King had humbled views of himself when the p »st years of his life were brought under review, but tta work of erecting the Temple had giy n opportunity far renewed consec ation in God's service, in referring to the erection of the new building, the preacher mentioned that it was p \rt of the great work of establishing God's Kingdom in this colony, and reminded the congregation that they were continuing the service rendered by the early pioneers of Christianity to this land. The transitory nature cf human life was emphasised as sufficient to inspire the utmost zeal and earnestness in the work of the church. There was a good congregation, who took great interest in the proceedings. The choir led the service of praise, which was most hearty, Miss Wilkie presiding at the organ. At the closs of the sermon a trio was very nicely randered by Mrs and Mies Wilkie and Mr Coombs. la the evening, in spite cf the heavy rain, a number of' the local residents assembled in the churoh. Under ths unfavourable weather conditions it was somewhat surprising that there was any congregation at all. MrJ.Asher, a lay preacher, long resident in New Plymouth circuit, and who with others his done excellent work in supplying religious ordinances in outlying districts, conducted the servic, which was greatly appreciated by those who were - present.