DIOCESE OF AUCKLAND.

New Zealand Tablet, Volume XXXI, Issue 38, 17 September 1903, Page 6

DIOCESE OF AUCKLAND.

(From our own correspondent.) September 10. The interior work In St. Benedict's Church is nearly completed, and the Rev. Father Gillan is working hard in order that the improvements shall be free of debt on completion. The Rev. Father O'-Gallagher, of Huntly, is progressing well after his accident. It was not so serious as reported. Rev. Father Patterson journeyed up to see him, and was pleased to find him better. ' Catholic Presbyterian Church ' was the title assumed by a rev. gentleman at the Presbyterian Jubilee here last week, and its adherents (we are told) numbered forty millions. How many more ' Catholic ' churches will there be 1 ?

A large gathering of the parishioners of St. Patrick's assembled in St. Patrick's Convent High School last Thursday evening to commemorate the first anniversary to the priesthood of the Rev. Father Holbrook, of the Cathedral. Amongst those present were Rev. Father Patterson, Adm., Fathers Tormey and Furlong, of St. Benedict's, and Father Holbrook. An address to Father Holbrook was read by Miss Gladys Foley, after which she hainded him a beautiful bouquet. After a few musical items had been got through the Rev. Father Patterson rose and said it gave him infinite pleasure to be amongst them that night to do honor to Father Holbrook upon his first anniversary of hi& ordination to the holy priesthood. He had been closely associated with Father Holbrook since his arrival in Auckland, and he could assure them that in him they possessed a good and worthy priest. To him had been allotted the work of the Sunday School, and right well he had attended to it. With them all he wished him 'Ad Multos Annos.' Father Patterson then presented Father Holbrook, on behalf of Mesdames Mcllveney and McDonnell, Miss Hobbs, and Messrs. M. O'Connor, M. Walsh, and A. Kohn, with a fine watch guard and greenstone pendant, a travelling rug from Mrs. A. Martin ; a rattan lounge from the teachers and pupils of the Sunday school ; a sofa cushion from Miss Harkins ; a gold cross from Miss Leonnardo. and a silver matchbox from the boarders of St. Patrick's convent schools. Father Patterson, in conclusion, remarked that such evidence of practical sympathy was an encouragement to Father Holbrook. Rev. Father Furlong, as a friend and companion of Father Holbrook from boyhood, and later on in College, said it gave him much pleasure to be present to do honor to Father Holbrook. He liked to see such a good spirit existing between priest and people, and said it was a good augury for the future. Father Tormey expressed his delight to be amongst them. St. Patrick's parishioners were noted for their kindness and generosity towards their priests, and what he saw to-night but confirmed the good opinion he had held. To the Sisters of Mercy he paid high tribute, saying he had known the Order in the old country, and here it was worthily fulfilling its traditions in inculcating a love for the Church, its prelates', and pastors. He congratulated Father Holbrook, and hoped he would celebrate many anniversaries. Mr. M. J. Sheahan added his quota of praise, to the good work performed by Father Holbrook, notably his arduous work in the Sunday school. Father Holbrook, who was loudly applauded on rising, said he could hardly express himself in words, as he felt overwhelmed with the praise bestowed upon him, and the numerous and valuable presents showered upon him. He heartily thanked his generous donors, and all who participated in bringing to a head the successful gathering to-night. In particular the good Sisters of Mercy, with whom he was associated in the good work of the parish, also their administrator, Father Patterson, Fathers Furlong and ITolbrook, and Mr. Sheahan for their kind references to him. Not even in dear old Wexford could he have received such honor. This day twelvemonth was brought forcibly to his memory, and he felt pleasure in having beside him in Father Furlong, one who was present at his ordination He only wished that one other who was present that day outside the altar rails were hero to-night— his dear mother, whose heart would be gladdened. In conclusion, he hoped to continue to merit their hearty co-operation in the performance of God's work. Vocal numbers were given by Misses Maud Donovan, Graham, Duflin, Beehan (2) ; choruses by the convent pupils, duet, cornets by Masters J. and W. Ewart and sailor's hornpipe by Misses Barry and Fairweather. Misses Graham and Fairweather and Rist weie accompanists. The pleasant evening concluded with the singing of ' God Save Ireland.'