WELLINGTON FREETHOUGHT ASSOCIATION.

Freethought Review, Volume I, Issue 7, 1 April 1884, Page 5

WELLINGTON FREETHOUGHT ASSOCIATION.

The following is Mr. Jardine’s usual monthly report of the doings of the above Association for the past month : Wellington, March 24th, 1884, Sir,— Since my last report two lectures on spiritualism have been delivered in our Hall by Mr. J. Chantry Harris. At the first lecture, delivered on the 23rd ultimo, there were about 100 people present. The lecturer stated that a close relationship existed between evolution and spiritualism, and also that the force known as modern spiritualism was the same force which was manifested throughout all ages, and which were known as miracles. At the second lecture, on the 2nd instant, there was another large audience. Mr. Harris remarked that, although spiritualism was nearly forty years old, the spiritualistic movement was remarkable for incoherency and a want of coalition among its supporters. Those people who had cast off their ecclesiastical beliefs were afraid to band together and investigate spiritualism, for fear that they should introduce something worse ; and others had rested, quietly waiting for results. The lecturer eulogised the late Professor Denton as a man of pure religion, whose life was passed in the elevation of his species. He also said it was human nature to cavil at great principles of reform ; men and women would always be found who disagreed with them, and it was all the better such was the case. Mr. Harris, in conclusion, urged those who wished to investigate .the phenomena to avoid public exhibition, and to develop domestic circles at home. He also pointed out the benefits that would accrue if meetings were held once every week, to exchange experiences, and help and strengthen the movement. On the 9th instant a well-known resident of Wellington, and a member of the Association, delivered a very able and interesting lecture in reply to “ Echo’s ” lecture of the 3rd ultimo on “ Men as compared with animals.” On the 13th instant the second social gathering of members took place, and was an unqualified success. On Sunday evening, 16th instant, one of the best lectures ever delivered in the Association’s Hall, subject, The Nationalisation of the Land.” was delivered by Mr, Robertson. We sincerely hope that Mr. Robertson may be induced to favour us with another lecture on the same, or another, subject at an early date. The half-yearly meeting of members takes place on the 26th instant, when the undersigned will be reluctantly compelled, through pressure of business, to resign the Secretaryship. Yours truly, A. T. Jardine, Hon. Sec.