Hibernian Society, Christchurch.

New Zealand Tablet, Volume XXX, Issue 12, 20 March 1902, Page 20

Hibernian Society, Christchurch.

(From a Christchurih correspondent)

On Sunday, March IG, the members of St. Patrick's Branch of the Hibernian Society, Cbristchurch, to the number of over fifty, approached the Holy Table at the seven o'clock Mass, which was celebrated by his Lordship the Bishop. The members, in regalia, mustered at the Hibernian Hall and marched in a body to the ProCathedral, being headed by the president (Bro. R. Evans). After the Mass his Lordship said he could not leave the sanctuary without paying how edifying it was to see such a number of men receive Holy Communion. He urged the young men of the parish to join the society. His Lordship hoped they would continue to celebrate St. Patrick** Day in as b- coming a manner. Att^r Mass the meinberw adjourned to their hall, where breakfast was laid. Among those present were bis Lordfhip Dr. Grimes, who presided ; Rev. Father O'Coanell, president of the Waimate branch ; and Key. Brother Paul, Superior of the Marist Brothers. After partaking of the good things provided, the president, in a few well-chosen words, welcomed hia Lordship, the clergy and visitors. The Right Rev Dr. Grimes said he was pleased to be present at such a gathering, and hoped the young men of the parish would join the society and participate in the benefits derived therefrom. After speaking at some length, the Bishop concluded by saying he would do all in bis power to further the interests of the society. The Rev. Father U'Connell expressed his pleasure at being invited to the meeting. He saw a number of friends and schoolmates seated round the table, and was pleased to see they were not afraid to wear green. He marie «mention of the flourishing condition of the Waimate branch, and concluded by wishing the local branch every success. The Vice-president (Bro. Edmonds, jun) spoke at some length on the advantages and benefits derived from membership of the society. He thanked his Lordship the Bishop, the clergy and visitors for their attendance at the breakfast. Bro. Sellars referred to the very prosperous state of the society from its formation in 1873 to the present time. He phowei by statistics that a very considerable sum (over £10,000) had been expended in benefits, etc , during the 2i) years of existence. He dwelt at length on the balance-shoet of the society, and showed that the branch was in a good financial state. He urged members to follow his Lordship's advice and bring as many Catholic young men as possible into its fold. His Lordship closed the meeting with a few well-chosen words, and hoped to be present at the next annual breakfast.