METHODIST CHURCH.

Taranaki Daily News, 12 January 1918, Page 7

METHODIST CHURCH.

CIRCUIT QUARTERLY MEETING. The quarterly meeting was held on Thursday night in the Whiteley hall. The Rev, W. A. Sinelaii presided and there was a. large attendance of ollieials, A slight increase in membership was reported. The 'balance sheet was exceedingly satisfactory, the debit of £43 with which the quarter commenced having been wiped out and a small amount left to the good. The Rev. H. L. Richards was appointed statistical and minute secretary to the meeting. Mr. E. Wells was elected society steward at Lower Mangorei. The Sunday School reports showed eight schools with 4GO scholars in the circuit, and it was stated that a most successful conference of teachers has been hold, also that steps were being taken to improve the school premises at Whiteley Church. Arrangements were made for holding harvest thanksgiving sevvices on" 1 the 10th and 17th February at eadh place in the circuit. The meeting was pleased to learn that there was a probability of the 'Rev. W. A. Sinclair being able to remain for another year after the two for which he originally c.ime, and willingly acquiesced with an arrangcemnt. for his visiting the foreign mission field. After due consideration it wa= resolved, without abandoning the claim for a third man, to work the circuit this year with two ministers, but to endeavor to obtain the services of a deaconess. Mr. P. Souster, wliose usefulness was 'highly spoken of. will thus bii liberated to fill s. vacancy elsewhere. A hearty vot'; of thanks was accorded to Mr Victor Griffiths on his retiring fror;i the circuit stewardship, and Messrs C E. Bdlringer and P. J. H. White were appointed to the position for the current year Me3srs Bellringer and W. Ambury were dic-ren as representatives-to conference, with >!i'es3i: J. Gibson and J. Boon as substitutes. .Messrs Cooper and Fcmviok were welcomed as local preachers Gratification at the carrying of six o'clock closing was expressed" Rev 11. L. Richards reported the purchase of a site for a parsonage at Fitzrov, with a substantial sum already in hand towards it. Resolutions of sympathy were passed in connection with recent bereavements, with Mr?. Andrews, Mr. and Mrs. Tich-. bon, Rev. S. J Scrpell (an old minister of the circuit), Rev. G. 11. Binton and Mrs. Bawlinson. The president stated that the past year had been largely on? of money raising, and he wished the- next to be one of definite spiritual advancement. It wan left with the minister* and circuit stewards to arrangs so we special appeal at "Easter time, and spec' ial services at a later date. The meeting closed at a lalt hoiu with the ■teacdic'tioE.