Valedictory Soiree to the Rev. George Smith.

Thames Star, Volume XI, Issue 3511, 27 March 1880, Page 2

Valedictory Soiree to the Rev. George Smith.

A Taledictory soiree to the Ber. G. Smith, pastor to the Thames Primitive Methodist congregation, was held last evening at the chapel, Mackay street. After tea the Chair was taken by Mr Christie, Station Steward.

i The Chairman in his opening remarks regretted the absence of the Rev. Mr Long and Mr Goldie of Auckland, the latter gentleman having been asked to preside. Their' respected pastor had received orders to proceed to another scene of labor, and they, as a congregation, were met to . bid' him good-bye. His successor, Mr Adamson, would be here -early next month.

The Rev. 8. J. Neill having made a few remarks suitable to the occasion, >

The Rev. G. Smith delivered his farewell address. After referring to the inconvenience the congregation were put to by the shifting about of clergymen, the speaker gave expression to the sincere regret at leaving the many friends he bad made here, though the sorrow was tempered by the genuine sympathy he saw expressed. He advised his hearers never be afraid to give too much sympathy to a Christian minister—it helped him on in his work and strengthened him. He then referred to the new pastor whom he believed would suit the Thames people. Hebade the congregation farewell; After som# remarks complimeotary to

Mr Smith by the Ker T. L. Daries, the singing of a hymn brought the proceed' ings to a close.