DIOCESE OF CHRISTCHURCH

New Zealand Tablet, Volume XXXIV, Issue 2, 11 January 1906, Page 3

DIOCESE OF CHRISTCHURCH

(From our own correspondent.)

January 8. His Lordship the Bishop was at Cheviot on Sunday, where he administered the Sacrament of Confirmation. St. Mary's Church, Manchester street, was very effectively decorated for the Christmas festival. There were the usual early Masses. The Rev. Father Marnane celebrated the 11 o'clock Mass and also officiated at Vespers. The music was selected from the Masses of Mozart and 'Gounod, the choir being conducted by Mr. A. H. Blake.

On New Year's eve members of the Hayward fam* ily and a few friends entertained the inmates of Nazareth House at a musical afternoon. The dining room, of the institution was utilised as a concert hall.-.Young; and old were gathered together, and for some hours were delighted with a programme of music, songs, and gramaphone selections. His Lordship the Bishop was present, and on behalf of the Sisters and their charges cordially thanked those who had so ''thoughtfully planned and contributed to the enjoyable event. He wished the Sisters continued success in their noble mission, and to the old people health, happiness, and length of years.

The appearance of the Catholic Club rooms on last Wednesday evening must have favorably impressed the casual visitor with the excellent tone prevailing, and proved encouraging to those whose efforts are directed in making the club useful and attractive to the members. Although scarcely through the holidays, quite a. number were in attendance and engaged in various'' favorite pursuits. Some were comfortably ensconced behind the latest number of the ' Tablet ' and other Catholic papers and magazines, others found relaxation at billiards, ping-pong, draughts, and the piano. Goodhumored banter and seasonable greetings were passed to some coming or going member, whilst those not inclined for recreation stood in groups chatting and enjoying the social pipe. The newly-fopmed tennis club was a thence of general discussion. All around the fun was pure and plentiful, and the club as a place of entertainment for our Catholic men and boys after their

day's toil was shown distinctly "arid undenfably. In an adjoining room the executive committee were engaged at their periodical meeting, adjusting accounts, discussing methods, and devising means for, the progress of the institution.