PRESBYTERIAN ASSEMBLY.

Taranaki Daily News, 22 November 1920, Page 5

PRESBYTERIAN ASSEMBLY.

MODERATOR NOMINATED. By Telegraph.—Press Association. Wellington, Nov. 20. Professo.r W. Hewitson, a master of Knox College, Duuedin, and Professor in the Theological Hall of pastoral training, was ■» nominated to-day by the General Assembly as Moderator 'for the next Assembly. SUSPENDED MINISTER'S APPEAL. Wellington, Nov. 20. The Presbyterian General Assembly had before it to-day the case of the Rev. A. A. Murray, who is under suspension by the Auckland Presbytery. The complaint against him is that he underwent immersion at the hands of a Baptist Minister, expressed disbelief in infant baptism, and discontinued it in his church. He was suspended, and appealed to the Assembly. After some opposition it was decided to hear the appeal. Mr. Murray was then heard personally. His principal contention was that lie had never been formally charged with a definite broach of duty, and when the citation was issued lie was not informed of the nature of the charge. He said he was advised by two eminent counsel that his action was justified. His opponents contended that Mr. Murray had been given full opportunity for discussion, bur had bounced out of the way, and invitations to meet the Presbytery had been treated with contempt. The Assembly dismissed the appeal, and a further appeal was lodged on his behalf, by Mr. Campbell, an alder of his church. Dr. Gibb said Mr. Murray seemed to be courting martyrdom, and begged him to resign and savS the Assembly from endorsing his suspension. Mr. Murray did not respond.