WESLEYAN CHURCH.

Wairarapa Daily Times, Volume XV, Issue 4845, 8 October 1894, Page 2

WESLEYAN CHURCH.

Memorial Seruice

The Masterton Wesleyan Church was thronged in every part last evcniiur, many being unable to gain admission, when the Rev John Dukes conducted a memorial service in connection with the death of the late Mr Jacob Banmber. A portion of the Church was set apart for members of the Fire Brigades, and n large number of the. deceased's old comrades were present in uniform, under the command of Captain U. Pickering. The discourse was a very able and impressive one, dealing with the solemnity of death at any time, and of the awfulness of sudden death, which yet had its redeeming features to the man prepared to die. The text chosen was the 20th chapter of tho Ist Book of Kings, 40th verse—"And as thy servant was busy here and there, he was gone," which' tho Rev. Sir Dukes said was truly a description of the life of Mr Baumher.

At some length the rev. gentleman then touched on tlic principal points in the deceased's character, alluding to his great natural ability and refinement, and his usefulness in Church work. Tho singular fact was related that tho Rov. 11. R, Dewsbury was the first Wesleyan Minister Mr Baumber had met in New Zealand, and after eighteen years he had met MrDewsbury'ngainafcw days before liis death, and had been much taken up with his sermon. He had arranged to be present with his family at the Homo Mission Services, but in tho afternoon was stricken down, and while Mr Dewbiiry was singing " Tho Holy City," Mrfeaumbcr." lay close to the gates." •'•The sermon was listened to with great attention, and during the evening the choir and orchestra rendered Appropriate music;, tho antlujify " Vital Spark," being especially well performed. As the congregation left the Church, the " Dead March " was played by tho organist, Miss Williams, ■ :.