FREE OF DEBT

Wairarapa Times-Age, 21 April 1938, Page 6

FREE OF DEBT

ST. MATTHEW’S PARISH ACHIEVEMENT ATTAINMENT OF IDEAL. VICAR'S ANNUAL REPORT. "The past year has been a memorable one in the history of our parish." states the Rev E. J. Rich. Vicar of St Matthews, in his annual report to parishioners. "It has witnessed a

spirit of sacrifice and of service in our people which has resulted in glorious progress and in the attainment of our ideal of a parish entirely free of debt. I shall never forget the great campaign which marked the year and which was blessed abundantly. "The Staff. —In June, after two and a half years of faithful service, the Rev J. E. Jones left us to become acting-Vicar of Hunterville, and later to leave for India to engage in missionary work. For five months I was without help and I desire to express my appreciation of the way workers and parishioners helped me in every possible way during that strenuous period. In November we were glad to welcome back as student-assistant, Mr V. W. Joblin, and in December, following his ordination, the Rev T. V. Pearson joined the staff. These two assistants have entered whole-heart-edly into the life of the parish.

"Parish Work.—Attendances at the services have grown during the year, and a very happy spirit of fellowship in service has prevailed. The work of our Sunday schools has been well maintained, and we have a splendid staff of keen teachers. The Bible classes have, increased their membership. The Scout Group continues to flourish. All the parish organisations have proved a tower of strength and are in a sound position. “Statistics. —During the year, there were 74 baptisms, 46 weddings and 48 burials; 65 candidates were confirmed. Acts of Communion for the year numbered 5143. “Church Workers. —The work of our church could not be done but for the splendid help of a loyal band of voluntary helpers. As a result of their labours, our church has been strengthened and its influence extended. They have their reward in the knowledge that they are doing something practical to bring nearer the Kingdom of God on earth. We can look forward to the future with every confidence. Our people have shown that their church means much to them and the encouragement God has given us will urge us on to go forward in spiritual advance to make our church increasingly a place where spiritual power is set free for the lasting good of the whole community.” The churchwardens’ report appears on page 9.