DAY OF PRAYER

Wairarapa Times-Age, 2 October 1939, Page 7

DAY OF PRAYER

IMPRESSIVE GATHERING IN MASTERTON

VERY LARGE ATTENDANCE IN PARK.

ADDRESS BY THE BISHOP

OF AOTEAROA.

"Be loyal to God. country and-home, and remember that if Britain goes down. New Zealand goes under with her.” said the Rt Rev F. A. Bennett. Bishop of Aotearoa, during the course of his address at the special service of intercession which took place on me Masterton Park Oval yesterday afternoon. The service was attended oy units of the Territorial Force in Masterton, members of the Wairarapa Returne Soldiers’ Association, K Squadron of the Legion of Frontiersmen. Scouts, Cubs and approximately 2000 of the general public. The day was fine, there being bright sunshine, and practically no wind. The military units marched to the Park, preceded by the Masterton Municipal Band. At the Park the units were drawn up in front of the pavilion where the National Anthem was sung. The riiessage from the King, which was received in all the British Dominions early in September was then read by the Rev T. V. Pearson and passages were given by the Rev E. J. Rich, Major Mahaffie, the Rev F. Parker and the Rev D. McNeur. The Mayor 01 Masterton, Mr T. Jordan, was also present on. the official stand.

An apology was received from the Rev J. Davie.

Two hymns, "O God, Our Help in Ages Past," and “Abide With Me," were sung with much feeling by the gathering. “On such occasions as this we all feel as one, and today we are gathered here to lift up our hands to Almighty God,” said Bishop Bennett. “We are, at the present, in the middle of a critical and strained time —not only the British Empire —but the entire world. And ii an Empire forgets God, how then, can that Empire expect God to remember it? “Our King, as head of the British Empire has set a fine example and we must follow. If the head of our proud Empire is praying to God, then, surely we, as the body of that Empire, should do the same.

“Why, you ask, are wc involved in this war? We are involved in this war because a little country is being torn to shreds by two great bullies. We are in to help Poland and God Almighty alone knows what that splendid country has suffered during this last month. However, I believe that great things come after suffering, and I hope and pray that in days to come some great blessing will come to Poland and her Allies. “Do not be satisfied with seeing your country’s flag floating majestically in the breeze. Transfer the sacred message it carries into your hearts and into your homes. Do all you possiblj' can materially, and remember that no one but yourself is stopping you from doing everything, spiritually. “You who might be called on to carry our namp and fight for us overseas. we know will uphold our proud and honoured name, stand at the prow of the canoe and May God bless you, one and all."