WHITELEY CHURCH.

Taranaki Daily News, Volume LII, Issue 312, 11 February 1910, Page 2

WHITELEY CHURCH.

ANNIVERSARY SERVICES,

The au-mal ten and public meeting in connection with the anniversary services of the Whitcley Church was held on Wednesday evening. The report showed that the debts had been reduced, finances, were healthy, membership had increased, and the congregations were good, interesting addresses were delivered by the Revs. J. G. Chapin tin and F. P. Kellow. Mr. Chapman, in the course of his remarks, said that statistics did not always show the true condition of a church; much was done that could not be tabulated. Whilst they not be able to rejoice over many conversions' there were those who had been confirmed in the Faith. One could not tabulate broken hear** bound up; reinforcements of the tempted and tried; preparation of the aged for deatii, and the young for life. He was grateful for words of encouragement spoken to him by many who had received help and inspiration. He knew lie had not pleased all, and he had not tried to. He had been adversely criticised for his progressive views, but he quite anticipated that. He allowed no one to dictate to him what he should preach. He claimed independence of thought and freedom of speech, and when they were denied him he would move on. If people came to church in a critical spirit, they would find food for criticism; if they came hungry, they would be fed. No one ever thought of s'wallowing the bones when eating fish; they removed the bones, and enjoyed the meat. So, when they came across a bone in his preaching, they should leave it untouched and assimilate the meat. He advised them to talk up their church and never talk it down. Tf they talked down their business, many of them would now be in the bankruptcy court. The audience showed their sympathy with Mr. Chapman's remarks by frequent applause.