Opening of a New Convent at Blenheim.

New Zealand Tablet, Volume XXX, Issue 26, 26 June 1902, Page 20

Opening of a New Convent at Blenheim.

Thb new convent at Blenhfim was opened on Sunday, June 15, by his Graca Archbishop Redwood. Great public interest (says the Marlhorough Tinwx) wan manifested in the event, and the ceremony, which was favored with fine weather, was witnessed by a large number of people At half-pabt two o'clock a numerous congregation had assembled in St. Mary's Church, where Archbishop Redwood preached an eloquent and impressive sermon. In concluding his sermon his Grace said that it was because the Church wished to see the children brought up in a Christian manner that they were determined to have their Ciitholio suhooH That was the reason why the people had put their hands into their pockets and built the convent that was bjing opened that day. It was, said hi 3 Grace, a happy day on which they were able to provide a better home for the Siatcrs who had devoted so many years to the welfare of those amongst whom they lived. It must be, too, a proud day for their pastor to see his plans so satisfactorily accomplished. Oji the conclusion of his Grace's discourse a proofs-aon was formeJ, and wended its way to the Convent grounds. The procession, which was a lengthy one, was led off by the Hibernian Band, and the Hibernians in regalia. His Grace the Archbishop was assisted by the Rev-B. Fathers* Servajean aud Fay. Addressing those present, Father Servaj^an thankod his Grace for performing the ceremony, an i thanked all those who had assisted the work of erecting tho new institution. In doing so, he made special reference to the generosity of ore donor, who greatly encouraged him at the outset by offering to give £50 in the event of a certain amount being assured. Father Servaj>'an went on to describe the steps taken towards the raising of the fund?, and said

that the sum to oredit in the bank was £773. This was not the fall amount required, but a number of subscriptions had been promised! and it was hoped that the balance would shortly be provided for He mentioned the fact that within the last two yearß £1400 had been expended on improvements in the parish, apart from the £500 wiped off the church debt. This accomplishment spoke highly for the goodwill of the parishioners. On behalf of the Sisters, he tendered sincere thanks to all who had helped in the good wojk of providing them with a b tter home. He announced that later on the Sisters would be pleased to show anyone thronjrh the new buiHing, which could not be thrown open just then, as it was not handed over by the contractors. i r ;; c:e :^ can concluded by paying a high compliment to the work of the contractor. They had done their work in a very thorough manner. * On the conclusion of this address the crowd dispersed Several th- round™ toWardß the Cost of thß uew Convent were received on