RECORD MEMBERSHIP

Wairarapa Times-Age, 12 June 1939, Page 4

RECORD MEMBERSHIP

CHURCH OF ENGLANDS MEN’S SOCIETY. INTERESTING SERIES OF TALKS. The Masterton branch of the Church of England Men’s Society has reached a membership of 51, that number be-~~ ing the highest of any branch in New Zealand. Among the popular features of the society is a varied programme of addresses by its members. At the meeting tonight the subject of the address will be “’Early Local Church History, ’ in which reference will be made to various churches in the Wairarapa since the early days and to notable church workers, such as the Revs. William Ronaldson and Amos Knell (early day Church Mission Society workers among the Maoris), the Rev. William Rowse (a Methodist veteran churchman allied to Maori Mission enterprise in the Far North of New Zealand before coming to the Wairarapa). the Rev. John Ross, first Presbyterian minister, who likewise shared in all the hardships of early pioneer settle■ment, and to the Rev. Fathers Haulbwack and Tracey. Incidental mention of many laymen of fine repute who contributed wonderful service to various religious bodies in the town and district will also be made.

It is hoped (by special invitation) to have brief guest replies from Mr Chas. Bannister (speaking for early settlers of Masterton generally), and from Mr Adam Rowse. a son of the late Rev. Wm. Rowse.