Primitive Methodist Annual Soiree.

Thames Star, Volume IX, Issue 3005, 2 October 1878, Page 3

Primitive Methodist Annual Soiree.

A large bumber assembled last night in the PrimitiTe Methodist Chapel—spite of the unfavorable state of the weather a»d roads —to celebrate the eighth anniversary of the Church by a soiree and public meeting. A very nice tea was partaken of, and a second sitting was . found necessary. The Rev. Mr JNixon officiated at Chairman; prayer by Eev. J. T-Hinton, and the singing of a hymn introduced proceedings. The Chairman having made a few remarks on the qualifications of a Chairman, of a humorous nature, called on Mr Christie, secretary, to read his report, which, among other things, showed an increase of 21 in the membership during the year, mostly young people. Mr Brett resd the report of the trustees, which represented the finance of the Church to be in a fair condition. . The Chairman referred to his arrival from Wellington at the beginning of the year, saying at that time he had felt rather downcast, but had soon become more spirited when he 'got with his brethren. Reference was made to Mr Manners and the cause of his absence. A very pretty hymn was next sang. Rev. Mr Hinton next addressed the audience, dwelling particularly on Sunday School work, which he held to be the greatest source of good on the Thames. He said it had been rumored that the i /Church was. going to lose Mr Nixon at ""'the end of the year, at which he and others were displeased ; he much disapproved of itinerancy, and hoped tbeir authorities would not remove Mr

Nixon. . (It was subsequently explained that Mr Nixon would likely be re.appointed, though it was not certain yet.) After some more singing Eev. R> S. Bunn gave a very interesting address, being a varied and characteristic one. He introduced the subject of the Pan-Metho-dists (now being talked of in America), who, purposed an amalgamation of the different Methodist denominations. Re-

garding their building another and larger vplace of worship, he advised them (se'miseriously) to wait and see the result of the scheme referred to. Mt Brett spoke for a short time, and after votes of thanks: had been accorded to the ttevs. Bunn and Neili for having kindly conducted Sunday services, and 'the ladies, and such Others as had rendered service, the meetdispersed, probably well pleased.