A SOUTHLANDER’S OPINION OF THE KEY. MR GORDON.

Temuka Leader, Issue 1255, 21 October 1884, Page 2

A SOUTHLANDER’S OPINION OF THE KEY. MR GORDON.

TO THE EDITOR. Sir, — I take the liberty of sending you a few lines regarding the Rer. David Got don, m losing whom, in my humble opinion, your district has lost a very efficient minister of the Gospel, As far as I am able, I will give you a few particulars re the rev. gentleman’s doings in Southland, and my own impressions. The first time I heard Mr Gordon preach was on the 28th September, in the First Presbyterian Church, Invercargill, and his appearance in the pulpit on that occasion at once conveyed to those present the conviction that whether praying, reading, or preaching, every word ho uttered came from his heart, bo impressive and earnest was his soft, mellow voice. The morning and evening discourses were excellent, and were listened to by large congregations. On the following Monday evening I had the pleasure of again bearing the rev. gentleman, on this occasion on the temperance platform, in the Temperance Hall. His remarks were most forcible, and will not soon be forgotten. On Tuesday the Rev. Mr j Gordon was inducted as pastor of theSecond Church. The service was very solemn. The Rev. Mr Mackoy (of

Gore) gave a most impressive discourse, taking his text from 11. Corinthians iv, 5. The Rev. Mr Baird (of Winton) addressed those present, and the Rev. Mr Fergnsson (pastor of the First Church) also took part in the proceedings. Several other ministers were present from the country districts, and the Church was well filled. On Wednesday, the Ist October, a tea meeting was held in the Garrison Hotel to welcome the rev. gentleman, and it was a grand success. At this meeting a large number of ministers were present, capital speeches were made, the singing was good : in fact, everything was of the best, and reflected great credit on all concerned. In conclusion, I must express the hope that the Rev, Mr Gordon may be long spared to minister to hie flock in this our southern town of Invercargill.—l am, etc., Edwin Rutland, Richmond Grove, Southland, October 4, 1884.

[The above letter was crowded out of our last two issues. We willingly insert it and are glad to find that the Rev. Mr Gordon has already made friends in his new home.— The Editob.]