PRESBYTERY OF TIMARU.

Temuka Leader, Issue 2267, 15 October 1891, Page 2

PRESBYTERY OF TIMARU.

The Presbytery of Timaru held its usual quarterly meeting at Geraldine on Tuesday last, at 11 a.m. There were - present the Revs. William Gillies (Moderator), Jas McKee, and A. Bruco Todd, and Messrs S. Mcßride, and D. Shaw. ASSOCIATED. The Revs. J, Waters, D. Ross, and Jas* White were associated. CHIEF BUSINESS. The chief business was the triennial visitation of the congregration of Geraldine. The question appointed by the Assembly were answered in turn by the Minister, Session, and the Managers, the answers being considered satisfactory. The Presbytery then passed the following motion: —“ The Presbytery, having heard and considered the answers given by the Minister and the representatives of the session and committee of management, record their pleasure at the general state of matters disclosed■ in these answers; rejoices in the harmony and goodwill prevailing throughout the congregation, and in the various departments of church life; urge the congregation to support heartily the operation for the speedy extinction of the remaining debt, and to infuse into* all their givings more and more of the spirit of making an offering unto the Lord; note with special pleasure that there are no seat-rents charged and that the seats are perfectly free to all comers; assure the office-bearers and congregation of the Presbytery’s interest in their spiritual life and prosperity, praying the Great Head of the Church to give more abundant blessing under the ordinances of the gospel for spiritual growth and ingathering.”

REPORTS. Mr McKee reported that the Rev. D. Ross, late of Queenstown, Otago, was at present supplying Otaio for three months. Mr Todd reported similarly with regard to Pleasant Point, that the Rev. Joseph White, late of Cromwell, Otago* was at present supplying Otaio, and was to supply there for the next three months. Remit of the Asssembly regarding the time of meeting of the Assembly was considered, and it was decided that the present time was as suitable as any. CONFERENCE. In the afternoon a conference on the state of religion and morals was held, at which a very interesting and helpful discussion took place. Various phases of the work of Christ were considered, the general impression being that the religious life of the community of South Canterbusy was certainly better than in times past, although there was still much room, for improvement. CONGREGATIONAL MEETING. In the evening the Presbytery met with the congregation, when there was a good attendance of members. Addresses were delivered as follows :—Rev, Joseph White on “ Foreign Missions,” Rev. J. Waters on “Loyalty to the Church,” Rev. D. Ross on “ Sabbath observance,”’ Rev. W. Gillies on “How to retain the young in connection with the church after leaving the Sabbath school.” The day’s proceedings then terminated.