DIOCESE OF CHRISTCHURCH.

New Zealand Tablet, Volume XXIX, Issue 7, 14 February 1901, Page 18

DIOCESE OF CHRISTCHURCH.

(.From our own correspondent.) February 1 1. The retreat, of the clergy of the dioc^e concluded on Saturday morning after which a synodal meeting was held. Thirty priests were present in retreat. Acting on behalf of his Lordship the Bishop and clergy, who were at the time in retreat, the Rev. i-ather Kerley and Mr. E. O'Connor awaited the an i\al of the Imperial troops on Thursday night for^the purpose oi extending a welcome to the Catholic chaplain, Father Koran, and inviting him to spend the night at the episcopal residence, which invitation was accepted. The army chaplain celebrated Mn^s in the Pro-Cathedral next morning, and subsequently rejoined the troops. The Imperial troopr, met with a most enthusiastic reception on their arrival in Chnstchurch on Thursday evening last. For an hour before the advertised time of the special train people poured by every etreet leading to the centre of attraction to see the men who fight the Empne -. batik*. When tho march from the Railway Station to the Exhibition Built ing-« commenced, the entire route was Bimply a mass of humanity closely puuked, so much bo that at intervals it was with difikulty the troops were able to march. On the next day (Friday) the same enthusiasm prevailed when the visitors were marched through the city to Hagley Park, where they went through various military evolutions in a manner that was a complete revelation to Colotn.iK volunteers as well as civilians. The cavalry, dragoons, hussars, and lancers all mounted, presented a sight never before witnessed in New Zealand, and it will probably be many a long day before a similar spectacle will be afforded. After the parade, in which the local forces took part, the Imperials were provided with light refreshments and then entrained for Lyttelton to rejoin the Britannic which shortly after sailed for Wellington. The St. John the Baptist (women's) branch of theHAC.B. Society held their usual fortnightly meeting on Tuesday evening last with a good attendance of members. The chair was occupied by the President, Sister Harrington. The Very Rev. Dean Foley,