PARISH FAREWELL

Wairarapa Times-Age, 8 July 1941, Page 4

PARISH FAREWELL

PRESENTATIONS TO CAPT. PEARSON

APPOINTMENT AS CHAPLAIN

TO FORCES.

gatherings in masterton

YESTERDAY

Parishioners of St. Matthew’s yesterday farewelled the Rev. T. V. Pearson, chaplain to the forces, who has been posted for overseas service, after duties at the Waiouru Territorial Camp. Captain Pearson will shortly proceed to Burnham Camp. At a gathering held at St. Matthew’s Parish Hall late yesterday afternoon, the Ven. Archdeacon E. J. Rich referred to Mr Pearson’s excellent work in the parish during the three years he was on the staff and also to his services as chaplain to the Territorial Camp at Waiouru. Speaking as a former Sunday School superintendent, Mr G. Hyde paid a tribute to Mr Pearson’s work among the children. The People’s Churchwarden, Mr J. Ninnes, on behalf of parishioners, presented Mr Pearson with a chaplain's scarf and cussock. In his reply, Mr Pearson referred to the happy time he had spent in Masterton and thanked parishioners for their many kindnesses to him. He would always remember Masterton. At Sedgley Home last night (kindly lent for the occasion by Mr and Mrs Hibbs) a large attendance of members of the Church of the Epiphany, Kuripuni, and others met to farewell Captain Pearson.

The early part of the evening was taken up by a musical and elocutionary programme, contributed by the following:—Mrs W. G. Perry (.piano solo), Miss Beulah Hirst (songs, accompanied by Mrs Perry), Miss McPeak (recitation), Stan Milne (song), and the Sedgley Boys’ Choir (songs, accompanied by Mrs Hibbs), and a most interesting competition arranged by Miss Ashwell. After supper, which was provided by the Epiphany Ladies’ Guild, Archdeacon Rich spoke of the good work done in the parish by their guest over a period of nearly four years, particularly in his efforts in that part of the parish. As one closely associated with Captain Pearson and remembering his own experiences of the Great War, Archdeacon .Rich said he, had every confidence in their guest making a success of the responsible post allotted him and he felt sure that the soldiers would appreciate his worth. Mr H. M. Boddington, on behalf ot the members of the Church of the Epiphany and other friends, congratulated Captain Pearson on his appointment, and presented him with a wellfilled envelope as a token of goodwill and appreciation. All present and many others unable to be present wished their guest a happy and busy time abroad and a safe return home.

Captain Pearson, in expressing his thanks for the large attendance present at such short notice, said it felt like coming home and the occasion was one that would help to spur him on in his work, which, up to the present, had been very interesting and inspiring. He was most grateful for their gift and would utilise it to its full advantage. He hoped on some future occasion to renew acquaintance with them all. The singing of the National Anthem and cheers for Captain Pearson, concluded a happy evening.

Apologies for absence were received from Mrs H. M. Boddington, Mr and Mrs W. Kemp, Mr and Mrs W. G. Lamb, Mr and Mrs J. A. Betts. Mr G. J. Heath, Mr A. L. Hibbs, Mesdames W. Andrew, W. Henson. Macrae, Misses N. and L. Boddington. M. and B. Kummer and Rona Perry.