METHODIST CHURCH.

Wairarapa Age, Volume XXXII, Issue 3171, 23 April 1909, Page 5

METHODIST CHURCH.

* , WELCOME SOCIAL. At the Methodist Schoolroom, last evening, a welcome social was tendered to Rev. C. E. Porter and family. Despite the inclement weather the Schoolroom was crowded. The Mayor (Mr P. L. Boiling") occupied v the chair. The meeting was opened by the singing of "O, For a Thousand Tongues to Sing," and was afterwards led in prayer by the Rev. A. Hodge. Apologies of absence were received from the Rev. H. Watson (Anglican Church), Mr N. C. Marshall (Y.M.C.A)., and Mr J. A. Donald (Conference representative). The Chairman, in the course of a brief address| said that he had much pleasure in welcoming Mr Porter as a citizen of Masterton, as well as the Minister of the Methodist'.Church He also extended a welcome to Mrs Porter and family. Mr and Mrs Porter were also cordially welcomed by Mr Newcombe, on behalf of the Circuit Stewards: Mr C. E. Daniell, on behalf of the Sundav School; Mr Geo. Boagey, ori behalf of the local preachers; and by Mr E. R. Wilson, Young Men's Bible Class; Rev, A. Hodge, Congregational Church; and Rev. A. T. Thompson, Knox Church. Mr Porter, on rising to reply, was greeted with prolonged applause.' He thanked all those present for the cordial manner, in which they had welcomed him, and also tor the manlier in which they had received him on Sunday last. He greatly appreciated the kindness shown to him. He said that he was very glad to come to Masterton, because withn a few weeks the wish of j the people, ex 7 pressed through the ballot-box, would be realised. He hoped that he would follow in the footsteps of the previous Minister of the Church. He again thanked those present most heartily on behalf of his wife and family and himself. During the evening the following items were rendered:—Quartette (2), Mesdames A. H.| Daniell and Edwards, Messrs S. Niven and Ralph; and solos by Mr J. Gray and Mr J. B. Nicol. Refreshments were also provided by the lady members of the congregation. At the conclusion of the meeting votes of thanks were passed on the motion of Mr H. Beale, to the Mayor,, Revs. A. T. Thompson and A. Hodge, and to all the speakers, singers and to the Dresden Piano Company for the use of a piano.