LEAGUE OF MOTHERS

Wairarapa Times-Age, 16 July 1943, Page 5

LEAGUE OF MOTHERS

CARTERTON MEETING. AN INTERESTING ADDRESS. (“Times-Age” Special.) Over 100 members were present at the monthly meeting of the League of Mothers, which was held yesterday afternoon at Carterton. Members stood in silence for a few moments as a mark of sympathy with Mrs L. B. Maunsell, president of the Masterton branch, and with the relatives of the late Mrs A. McKenzie, who had suffered bereavements. An admission service was held, four new members being enrolled. Members were requested to send nominations for the committee to the secretary not later than July 31. It was announced that “Fathers' Night" would be held on September 16. Violin solos by Miss Fisher, with Miss C. Hayes as accompaniste. were greatly appreciated. The Rev. F. H. Robertson. Director of the Campaign for the Christian Order, gave a most interesting address on “The Threat to the Home.” He outlined the great strides that has been made in the status of women as compared with 25 years ago. when marriage meant freedom, some sort of standing, or escape from their home or an unremunerative position. Today great opportunities were open to women in commerce, in education, and in their ability to earn good salaries, as well as leading a much freer and more responsible life. With these changes marriage has become a much more conflicting arrangement as it was necessary to have a more equal partnership than previously. As there were so many interests outside the home, it had become increasingly difficult to make the home the focus of life. Girls today are reluctant to marry, because of the sacrifices that are involved. “They want to begin home life where their parents left off.” said the speaker. “Some prefer to wait until they can set up house in the style to which they have been accustomed. In recent years there has been a most phenomenal decline in the number of children in families and also a decline in the birthrate, 80 per cent of married couples having only two children or less. Instead of looking upon the mother of a large family with pity we should feel proud of her." The president warmly thanked Mr Robertson for his address.