Shortlaad Wesleyan Anniversary Soiree.

Thames Star, Volume XI, Issue 3730, 8 December 1880, Page 2

Shortlaad Wesleyan Anniversary Soiree.

The anniversary soiree and public meeting of the above Sunday School was held last evening in the school-room, Willoughby street. An excellent tea was provided, which was presided over by the ladies of the congregation, and there was a good attendance. After tea, all adjourned to the Church, where a public meeting was held. The proceedings opened with a hymn, " Come into Christ's army," which was sung with spirit. " the Eev. Mr; Waikin (Chairman), after reading a few verses from the Bible and I engaging in prayer, gave a very instructive \ speech on " Higher Education." He said no one could really finish their education, that is, know everything there is to be learnt. Young ladies just home from school Boon found that out; they might have many accomplishments, but they would soon find something they could not do without being shown how. He thought it was the duty of those who had developed their own minds to assist in instructing the children. Man had a natural desire for knowledge, and the | only way to acquire'it in its best form was to learn of God, who was the source of all knowledge. Parents should therefore bring up their children to a knowledge of Him and the way to Heaven.; Mr Miller then read the annual report and balance sheet; which showed the number of children on the books to be 290—135 girls and 155 boys, with an average attendance of—morning, 73; afternoon, 197. The average attendance of teachers was—morning, 4; afternoon, 20. The library contained 473 volumes, with an average circulation of about 140 books every Sunday. The total receipts for the year had been £298 Os 4d; and the expenditure £213 3s lOd; leaving a balance in the bank-with ho liabilities whatever,' of £7 16s 6d.

The Rev. B. Laishley moved the adoption of. the report, and made a short though very interesting speech on " A word in season.'' Mr Benshaw seconded, and spoke at length on the different items of the report and rejoiced in the success which had attended their efforts in the past year finaaoially, but expressed sorrow that they had not had more success spiritually. . The Beys. Davies, Jaynes, Watkin, (senr.), S. J. Neill, and Mr Ashby, also addressed the meeting, but space does not enable us to give a report of the speeches. Mr Bright then moved a vote of thanks to the ladies who had presided at the tea tables, the Ministers who had conducted the Sunday services, and the choir. Mr Nodder seconded, when it was unani* mously carried. The proceeding olpsed by the singing of a hymn, and the pronunciation of the benediction. L