CATHOLIC FEDERATION

New Zealand Tablet, 11 March 1915, Page 23

CATHOLIC FEDERATION

MEETING OF THE DOMINION COUNCIL. ; OFFICIAL REPORT. ' ‘ . ■ — . " -i. 1 ' V' The half-yearly meeting of the Dominion Council as held at the offices of the Federation; Cuba - street, Wellington, on Wednesday, February. 24, at 10 a.xn. The president (Mr. D. L. Poppelwell) was in the chair, and the following members were present: Auckland Very Rev. Dean Darby and Mr. B. McLaughlin; Wellington Very Rev. Dean Power, Rev. Father Daly, and Mr. O. P. Lynch; Christchurch — Rev. Dean Hyland and Mr. W. Hayward; Dunedin— T. Hussey and Rev. Father Edge (acting as proxy for Very Rev. Father Coffey, Adm.). THE PRESIDENT’S ADDRESS. On behalf of the Federation I have to offer the delegates, and especially those who are attending for the first time, a most hearty welcome. The invariably good attendance at the half-yearly meetings of the Council shows that the Catholic people of New Zealand - are determined that the Federation shall be a live body, and that its great possibilities shall be developed for the benefit of the Church and the Catholic people generally. The work of the last six months has been in a great measure defensive. The great and successful fight put 'up against the attempt of the so-called Bible-in-Schools party is one which we should all be proud of. We are much indebted for the result to the work done for us by the hierarchy, and especially by our great champion, the Bishop of Auckland, who, we "trust, may be long spared to carry on his strenuous fight for the rights and liberties of the Catholics of this country. The proposal that a fund should be established to recoup him for his personal expenses in connection with this campaign should not only commend itself to our people as a bare act of justice, but the necessity for a fighting fund for future propaganda/must be apparent to all, and it is to be hoped that a satisfactory scheme will be set on foot at this meeting. The work, too, of the Catholic Immigration Committees has been fraught with much good and, I am sure, will grow and develop. Since we last met the disastrous war in Europe has broken out. Deep regret must be felt by all Catholics at the vast damage that has been done to and the profanation of many ancient cathedrals, convents, and other seats of learning, but the records of our Church and faith have been enriched by great and noble examples of bravery and devotion to duty by our priests, religious, and laymen. The Catholics of New Zealand are not behindhand in their duty at this serious crisis, but have shown their patriotism and loyalty in a manner worthy of the great traditions of our people. No doubt, after the war there will be a large movement of Continental people abroad. Such a stream of emigration is almost a certainty, and possibly some steps may be possible to induce suitable immigrants from Catholic Belgium and France to settle in this country. Perhaps a scheme of such settlement, if taken up hqre, would be looked upon favorably by our Government, and concessions granted,, which would not only assist the distressed peoples of the Old World but also materially help the development of our own country, both agriculturally and industrially. The work of purging the shelves of the sellers of antiCatholic and injurious literature has gone on successfully during the half-year just past, and this work can be developed greatly not only in the negative way of abolishing objectionable literature, but on its positive side by assisting and encouraging the dissemination of good, wholesome Catholic literature by every means possible. The strides made in having the Education Act amended, so that the Minister of Education has power to approve private secondary schools for scholarship holders, are of great importance. I ,am satisfied that continuous agitation on this matter must result in the free-place system being also extended to private secondary schools. There is no logical difference in the . position of scholarship pupils and free-place pupils, and

■the . innate justice . of our claim for our own free-place pupils must appeal to all justice-loving people. On this education question it seems to me that we will have to set up a conductive policy. In a desire for religious .instruction in schools we have .much in common with many members of other denominations, and it seems a . pity that those who, like ourselves, are desirous of even-handed justice to all will not meet us fairly, and endeavor to arrange a common platform on broad lines which would be honorable alfke to all, and meet the necessity of, all consciences without doing violence to any. Before sitting down, I would like to point out the great success of the second Pan-Southland Catholic Federation picnic, the attendance this year being greater than that of the first picnic, and, although the weather conditions were unfavorable, the enthusiasm of the people was as great as ever. I would commend gatherings of this kind to other districts. I again offer you ah a hearty welcome, and hope your deliberations upon the various matters appearing on the agenda paper will result in much good to the cause we all have at heart. ARCHBISHOP O’SHEA’S LETTER. His Grace Archbishop O’Shea, being unavoidably absent, the following communication was read by the president: I am very sorry that my visitation engagements in a remote part of the archdiocese prevent me from being present and addressing you in person. I have before all to congratulate the Dominion Council on the splendid work that the Catholic Federation has accomplished during the past year. The half-yearly report is indeed most gratifying to all of us, and it should convince every Catholic, if there are still any who need convincing, that the Catholic Federation did not come into existence a day too soon. The principal thing accomplished by the Federation was of course the defeat in the last Parliament of the Bible-in-schools plebiscite (or so-called Referendum Bill). Then, by means of its organisation, it helped during the late general election to bring about the return of a large number of candidates who are pledged to oppose the proposals of the Bible-in-Sch®ols League. Though this is very gratifying, as well as encouraging, I do not want you to go away with the idea that all danger from that quarter is past. I would impress this strongly upon you, so that when you return to your own districts you will use your influence and your efforts to disabuse our people of The idea that the Bible-in-schools danger is at an end. ‘ There is, apart from this question altogether, a great amount of work for the Catholic Federation to do for the cause of Catholicity. Though the organisation must- ever be kept from being /political in the party political sense, there is yet no reason why it should not use its organisation and its influence to further certain reforms in the political sphere. There can be no doubt that the present method of carrying out our Parliamentary elections is neither fair to minorities, nor truly democratic. As a remedy, what is called proportional representation has been suggested in many quarters, and there can be no question that it is increasing in public favor. As we are a minority of the people, any system of voting that aims at giving minorities more- adequate representation should incite our sympathetic interest. And I think it will be to our interest if the Federation can undertake the work of enlightening our people on the merits of the system of proportional representation, so that they may be able to give an intelligent vote on the question. You can go to work quietly and help to hasten what I believe would be a great reform. Under the present system a Member of Parliament is returned by people of all shades of opinion, and to keep his seat he must be an adept in the art of trying to represent all these different opinions, no. matter how contradictory and irreconcilable they may be. In other words, he must be a politician whose*" only principle is often how best not to offend any section amongst his constituents, so as to be able to secure their votes at the next election. I do not wish to further occupy the time of the Council on this matter, but would

impress on you to make a study of the question yourselves, and to induce Catholics to study it. This will provide work for the Federation. v -. . . Allusion is made in.the report to the large number of men who have gone with the Expeditionary Forces and this reminds me that the Federation may be > able to help in bringing about that a regular supply of newspapers, weekly for choice, are forwarded to our men. You cannot realise how welcome these would be to those at the front. If they were forwarded to the Catholic chaplains, they would pass them on to the men, and the very fact of the chaplains being the medium of this would strengthen their hold upon the lads. I feel sure that you will be able to help in this matter. I wish your meeting and deliberations every success. I hope they will have the effect of improving the status of the Catholic Federation, and of increasing its usefulness. lam sorry that lam not in Wellington to meet you all again, but I trust that your stay will be a very pleasant one. I feel sure that Wellingtonians will show you every hospitality and kindness that is in their power.’ It was resolved on the motion of Very Rev. Dean Darby, seconded by Mr. McLaughlin, that his' Grace Archbishop O’Shea be thanked for his address, and that it be recorded in the minutes. AMENDMENT OF RULES. The Dominion Executive forwarded the following amendment That rule 4be amended by altering due date of subscription to July 1, and making such subscription cover the period until the 30th June in each year.’ The president, in moving that the proposed amendment be agreed to, stated that the object was to alter the end of the financial year to June 30. At present the annual meeting of the Federation took place in July, while the financial period ended in December. Mr. McLaughlin seconded the motion. Hie Rev. Father Hurley supported the proposal, and stated that difficulty had been experienced in procuring subscriptions during the holiday season. Mr. Hayward thought it would be a mistake, as the natural end of the year was December, when members would be reminded by that fact that another year’s subscription was due. Very Rev. Dean Power supported the motion for the reasons given by Father Hurley. The motion was agreed to. A very long discussion took place on the question of the amendments, of which due notice had been given, proposed to rule 8, in which nearly all the delegates took part, and on the question being put both amendments (Dominion Council and Wellington Diocesan Council) were lost. An amendment proposed to rule 8 (b) was rejected without debate. An amendment to rule 9, dealing with the constitution of the Dominion Executive, and which was contingent on the passing of the previous amendments, was held over until the annual meeting, on the motion of Mr. Hayward, seconded by Mr. Lynch. A remit from Dunedin ‘ That the Diocesan Councils meet from time to time as they think fit ’ —was struck cut without discussion. HALF-YEARLY REPORT OF EXECUTIVE. The half-yearly report, which was published in the .Z Tablet of the 4th inst., was taken as read. The president moved that the report be adopted. He referred briefly to the chief items of interest in it, and said that the Executive was to be complimented on the great amount of work it had acomplished. The discussion was continued by Rev. Father Daly and other delegates, and Mr. J. J. L. Burke, chairman of the Dominion Executive replied, supplying information desired. The report was adopted. REPORT OF THE SECRETARY AND ORGANISER. Mr*. Girling-Butcher reported on the work of the head office for the past six months. He stated he had

been appointed the Parliamentary representative of the Tablet, and that the privilege had proved to be of great service during jthe Bible-in-schools campaign. During the time that this matter was before Parliament, his services had been placed entirely at the disposal of Bishop Cleary. The work of the Immigration Committee had always been done by the head office, and the labor and accommodation bureau had been well attended to. ■l. -.- Inquiries as to the control of the organiser’s tours, notice of visits to parishes, immigration work, Trentham camp, and other matters in which the secretary has been concerned, were made and replied to. The report was adopted. Balance Sheet. The Rev. Father Hurley, S.M., Dominion treasurer, read the balance sheet for the half-year ended January 15, 1915, and which was as follows: Receipts. £ s. d. £ s. d. Balance carried forward ... 306 3 2 Subscriptions— Wellington ..% ... ... 49 17 1 Dunedin ... ... ... 92 15 2 Special Donations, Chaplains’ Outfit for Chaplains appointed to New Zealand Expeditionary F orces Auckland ... ... ... 20 0 0 Wellington ... ... ... 12 0 0 Christchurch... ... ... 20 0 0 Donation from Mr. M. Segrief, Wellington ... ... ... 220 £502 17 5 Expenditure. £ s. d. £ s. d. Printing Account Tablet 34 19 0 Salaries— Organiser ... ... ... 100 0 0 Office Assistant ... ... 25 0 0 Chaplains’ Outfit ... ... 34 5 0 Bonus to Hon. Assistant Secretary 10 0 0 Expenses, Bible-in-Schools Demonstration ... ... 20 1 0 Office Expenditure Balance, Typewriter and Duplicator ... ... 24 6 0 Stationery ... ... ... 210 7 Subscription to Telephone... 315 9 Extra Clerical Assistance ... 2 0 0 Postage and Telegrams ... 17 3 4 Cleaning ... ... ... 33 6 Lighting ... ... ... 119 0 Sundries ... ... ... 926 —— 64 0 8 Travelling Expenses— Organiser ... ... ... 12 5 0 Delegates—Christchurch, £7 4s 6d; Dunedin, £24 14s 31 18 6 9 44 3 6 Credit Balance—Current Account, Bank of New Zealand ... ... 35 12 0 Post Office Saving Bank ... 50 0 0 In hands of Treasurer ... 84 16 3 - 170 8 3 £502 17 5 The president said that the balance sheet was entirely satisfactory, and moved that it be adopted. Mr. McLaughlin seconded the motion. Mr. Lynch asked for information re chaplains’ outfits, and wished to know what was to be done with the surplus of the fund subscribed for that purpose. Rev. Father Hurley explained that it was likely that further chaplains would be required, and that the

balance of the fund would be used for their equipment. : % The 'balance 1, sheet was adopted •' ‘V". • • /V: rv; >• • ‘ •; • .• ' •* REMITS FROM DIOCESAN COUNCILS. • Mr. McLaughlin, in bringing a remit by the Auckland Diocesan Council, with reference to a - building at Trentham Camp, under the notice of the delegates, said that the Auckland delegates had been given authority to act in any way that might commend itself to the Council. He asked for particulars as to the cost of a suitable building. . . ' . ‘ >, ,■/ Rev. Father Daly said that the estimated cost 'of the building considered necessary was £l5O. At present matters at the camp were in an unsatisfactory con- - dition. No provision exists for the priest to hear confessions, or for Mass on week days. The building proposed could be used at other times as a social hall for the use of the men— want that was severely felt at present. He trusted that the - Council would regard this matter as one of urgency, as men were being sent away at present without the possibility of their spiritual needs receiving attention. - The president agreed that a building was absolutely necessary, and suggested that the question should be referred to the Diocesan Councils, and subscriptions invited. Mr. Lynch hoped that the matter would be gone into thoroughly, and gave instances where men, after going to confession, had no opportunity of receiving Holy Communion. He hoped that the Council would do something without delay, and felt sure that no difficulty need be anticipated about raising the required amount. It was resolved on the motion of Mr. McLaughlin, seconded by Very Rev. Dean Darby—‘That each diocese be requested to contribute £4O, and that the Executive be instructed to proceed at once with the , erection of the building.’ The discussion on a remit from Auckland, re expenses incurred in connection with the Bible-in-schools movement, was of a most protracted nature, every member of the Council taking part. Eventually both the motion and an amendment thereto were rejected, and the matter was left over for future consideration, A remit from the Auckland Diocesan Executive, having reference to the payment of delegates’ expenses to Diocesan Council meetings, was referred to the Diocesan Councils for consideration. Dunedin Diocesan Council and Orphan and Indigent Children. The president reported that in Dunedin arrangements had been made with the Education Department e by which all homes in which these children were being brought up had to receive the approval of Very Rev. : Father Coffey, and that the necessity for some such arrangement had been made apparent quite recently. It was also stated that in Dunedin the Department had appointed an official visitor to these homes who was paid a salary for that duty. The president suggested that if so similar arrangements be made in other centres of the Dominion. The secretary referred to correspondence between the Education Department and the Federation with respect to this matter, shoeing that the Department agreed to commit Catholic children to homes approved by the Federation. The president expressed the hope that Diocesan Councils would give this matter serious attention, and moved that Very Rev. Father Coffey be written to for particulars of the arrangements in force in Dunedin. Rev. Father Daly seconded the motion, which was carried. School Committees. Mr. Hayward felt sure that it was necessary to see that some Catholics should be elected to these positions, especially in the country districts. Instances had occurred where Catholics had experienced difficulty in obtaining the use of the school-rooms, although it was freely granted to others. ... Mr. Lynch was sure that if , one or two Catholics ' were on these committees much good would be done.. :

■He urged Catholics to . attend the meetings of householders, and to take more interest in what was going on around them. •' ; v ... It was resolved, on the motion of the president, seconded by Mr. McLaughlin— ‘ That the attention of parish committees be drawn to the danger of school committees being used as organisations against the interests of Catholics, ' and urging that more interest be taken in the election of school committees.’ Offensive Literature.’ Mr. Hayward moved‘ That the Dominion Executive be directed to write to the Victorian Federation with reference to the publications named upon the catalogue, issued by a publishing firm having a depot in Melbourne, upon whose trade catalogue most of the offensive anti-Catholic literature appears.’ He thought that much good might be done by calling attention to this matter. Very Rev. Dean Hyland seconded the motion, which was agreed to without further discussion. The Education Question. • Speaking on the next question— l That strenuous and urgent steps be taken by the Dominion Executive to have existing disabilities of Catholics in matters of education removed ’ — Mr. Lynch said it was time that the Federation made a forward movement. He was of opinion that such a request would receive support from many non-Catholics who were in favor of religious instruction in schools. The president said that this was one of the matters on which the hierarchy would have to be consulted. He thought that a conference between all parties concerned would be beneficial, and that the Dominion Executive might take the initiative. -. He moved to that effect. Rev. Father Edge seconded the motion, and expressed the opinion that the time had come when the Federation should evolve a constructive policy. He was sure that there was a great desire on the part of many non-Catholics for religious instruction in schools, and pointed out that Catholics had so far remained on the defensive, without making any effort to find out the opinions of others. . Mr. Hayward said that the remit was intended to deal principally with the disabilities of the free-place holders. „ He was afraid it would be impossible to get representatives into Parliament who favored a grant for private schools. Mr. Hussey thought some attention should be paid to obtaining the capitation grant for swimming lessons, etc. In some education districts it was paid to Catholic schools, and in others it was withheld. He hoped that the executive would make inquiry into this matter so that all may receive equal benefits from the grant. The president stated that the grant referred to by Mr. Hussey was paid in some places. He was of opinion that their first duty was to work for the claims of the free-place holders. , Very Rev. Dean Hyland mentioned the matter of medical inspection of schools, and expressed the hope . that the executive would ask that the same privileges should be granted to our schools. He. gave an instance of the necessity for such inspection, and thought all children, no matter what their religion might be, should be included in the benefits of the movement. The secretary stated that the Minister of Education , had definitely refused to grant concessions to free-place Folders. The motion was carried. ‘ That it is not. desirable for any member of a parish committee to be on the committee of any political candidate, until such candidate has given his views, and .defined his platform' on questions affecting the civil rights and liberties of Catholics, and that the foregoing should be embodied in the constitution of the Federation.’ ' ''if’ 5 - ' - ■ • I , The president stated that he agreed with the principle of the remit, but suggested that an expression of • opinion by the council would meet the case. It was resolved, on the motion of Mr. Hayward, seconded by Mr. McLaughlin, that the remit be received.

. * The desirability of a 7 protest from the ' Dominion Executive to the editor and compilers of the , School Journal against the issuing of anything of a contro- : versial. nature, such as the ‘‘John Wickliffe” card 7 in the School Journal.' ~ -"'L;l ' • Speaking to this question, the Rev. Father : Edge said that as there was a movement to introduce history into the schools, it would be necessary to keep this matter in view, and to see that a distorted version of certain portions of English history, should not be placed before the children of the Dominion. The secretary stated that the matter of the “John Wickliffe ’ card had been brought under the notice of the editor of the School Journal, who regretted that anything offending the susceptibilities of any section of the community had appeared therein. ' He would take the greatest possible care that nothing controversial would appear in future, and informed him (Mr Butcher) that great care would be taken in respect to any proposed history lessons to be circulated by means of the Journal. A remit having reference to a special meeting of the council immediately before a general election, was withdrawn. ‘ That this council desires to define as a general principle, that no Catholic holding a public position identify himself with any movement or function organised by an anti-Catholic society.' Mr. Hayward, in moving that the remit be agreed to, said that it was sent forward in consequence of a case of that nature occurring in the diocese of Christchurch, and which had been the subject of considerable comment. t The president was afraid that the resolution set up a standard of conduct which it would be difficult to maintain. He said that any difficulty relating to a matter of the kind could generally be got over by the exercise of a little tact. Very Rev. Dean Hyland said he was familiar with the case referred to by Mr. Hayward, and that there were many circumstances which excused the occasion. Mr. Hayward, in reply, said that the remarks of the president showed the necessity 7 for some such resolution. The remit was agreed to. Catholic School Reader. Mr. Hayward stated that this remit had been placed on the agenda paper in order to ascertain the' views of the council upon the question of preparing a Reader for use in Catholic schools. Mr. McLaughlin suggested that a Reader for the sixth standard would meet the case. The president thought that this matter might be referred to the Dominion Executive for consideration, and to ascertain the probable cost, etc. On the motion of Mr. Hayward, this course was agreed to. The question of the adoption of a membership badge for the Federation was discussed, and a specimen badge was submitted, but, it was considered that the time was not yet ripe, and the matter was allowed to stand over for the present. Federation Sunday. The following remit was sent in by the Wellington Diocesan Council ‘ That the first Sunday ‘in July be known as Federation Sunday, and that a special appeal on behalf of the Federation be made in all churches throughout the Dominion on that day, or upon the first available Sunday thereafter.’ Speaking to this question, the president stated that permission would have to be obtained from the hierarchy before it could be carried into effect. 1 The matter was referred to in the report of the executive, and the idea was to make a special effort to get in all the subscriptions at the beginning of the financial year, which would now commence on July 1. - Rev. Father Edge thought it would be of service in bringing the Federation under the notice of ; all the congregations upon the same day.

It was resolved on ■.the motion of Rev. Father Daly, that the . Dominion Executive bring the, request under the notice of the hierarchy.. , .... That financial members who remove from one parish to another inform the parish secretary of the address to which they are about to remove, and the secretary will, on receipt of such information, notify the secretary of the committee in that parish.’ Mr. Lynch thought that some such course was necessary, and moved that it be agreed to. Rev. Father Daly seconded. The president pointed out that provision already existed for such cases, but it would do no harm to . direct attention to the matter. The motion was carried. Under the heading, * General Business,’, it was resolved, on the motion of the president, seconded by Mr. McLaughlin, that the subscriptions of members absent on active service be remitted during their absence from the Dominion. Prizes to School Children for Essays on the Subject of the Federation. The president suggested that the diocesan councils and parish committees should deal with this matter, and moved that it be referred to them accordingly. This course was agreed to. Immigration. • The president suggested that the Dominion Executive should make inquiries as to the best means of settling immigrants from Belgium and other Catholic countries on the lands of this Dominion, and to report to the annual meeting. Mr. Lynch stated that Australia had already moved in this direction, but found that the Belgian Government was averse to the emigration of its people. It was resolved, on the motion of the president, that the executive be directed to inquire and report upon the matter. Membership. The president read a statement showing the total membership of the Federation to be 21,595. He was sure that every member would be pleased with the progress made by the Federation during the past year, and moved that a hearty vote of thanks be accorded the Dominion Executive for its services. This was carried with acclamation. Mr. McLaughlin suggested that the Dominion Executive prepare a list “of the principal disabilities under which Catholics were laboring in New* Zealand, and show what steps had been taken by the Federation to counteract those evils. The chief matters he referred to were the educational disabilities under which the Catholic people w r ere compelled to suffer, such as the free-places, children travelling to school on the railways, and other matters. He moved that the executive be directed accordingly.

Mr. Hayward thought the , idea an excellent . one, and seconded the motion, which was carried. 'r • On the motion, of Very 'Rev. Dean Power, 1 a vote On the motion of Very Rev, Dean Power, a vote of thanks to the president for his services f in the .chair was carried with acclamation. - - Mr. . Poppelwell briefly replied, and expressed his thanks to the members for the assistance they had given him in the conduct of the business. * A . : r The council adjourned at 8.45 p.m. ‘ , Mr. W. F. Johnson, hon. secretary of the Wellington Diocesan Council, acted in the capacity of minute secretary for the full day's proceedings. The secretary and organiser, who was present, but in ’the opening stages of influenza on that day, desires to acknowledge with many : thanks the marked ability with which Mr. Johnson carried out the work. ■ WELLINGTON DIOCESAN COUNCIL. The monthly meeting of the executive committee was held at the office of the Federation, Cuba street, Wellington, on - March 3, .when there were present— Rev. Father Daly (chairman), and Messrs. Parsonage, Crombie, Corry, Seivers, and the secretary. The Very Rev. Dean McKenna, Y.G., and Mr. Ellis sent apologies for non-attendance. The Rev. Father J. H. Herring sent in his resignation, on account of his removal from the city, and Mr. R. P. Smyth (secretary of the Thorndon parish committee) was elected to the vacancy for the remainder of the term. A letter was received from the Catholic Immigration Committee, detailing the steps proposed to be taken with reference to the establishment of a. girls’ hostel, and asking the council to assist. Several members spoke as to the necessity for such an institution, and it was decided that the secretary be instructed to express the committee’s approval of the proposal of the C.I.C. A letter was received from the general secretary, stating that'Jie Dominion Council, being aware of the necessity ox a building for the use of the Catholics at Trentham Camp, had requested each Diocesan Council to contribute the sum of <£4o for that purpose. It was resolved, on the motion of Mr. Seivers, that a sum of £ls be given, in addition to the .£25 voted* at the halfyearlv meeting, and that the arrangements for the supply of stationery, literature, etc., be left in the hands of Rev. Father Daly and the secretary. The question of the payment of delegates’ expenses to the Diocesan Council meetings, referred to the executive by the halfyearly meeting, was held over. It was decided that all applications for the use of the marquee for military purposes be referred to the Very Rev. Dean McKenna, V.G.. who is .responsible for the arrangements for Catholic chaplains at territorial training camps in the Wellington military district.

CATHOLIC IMMIGRATION COMMITTEE, WELLINGTON. ' ' , A/’. V r /.' ’ . ‘ ‘s . ■'» ’ ‘ > An exceptionally interesting meeting of the C.I.C. was held in tlie Federation rooms bn February 26. The chair. . was occupied ,by the president (Mr. GirlingButcher). The Very Rev. Dean Regnault and the Rev. Father Venning (spiritual director) were present, and there was a good attendance of members and friends interested in the work. A discussion took place re. the action of the Government matron in insisting on two immigrant • girls going to a non-Catholic hostel, when suitable and reputable lodgings were available, in Catholic homes. Difficulties of this descrijition only serve to intensify the urgent need of a Catholic hostel, consequently the report of the sub-committee, set up for the consideration of this question, was received with, exceptional interest. Three offers of property were carefully considered by the members of the sub-com-mittee, and declined as unsuitable, and a recommendation was mad© that the city priests be asked to notify that a hostel is to be opened, and that those who require rooms should give in their names. These particulars being obtained, an appeal will be made to Catholic women of the city to assist in the movement. A proposal, that the recommendation be acted upon, was carried unanimously. The thanks of the C.I.C. are due to the Very Rev. Dean Regnault for his practical sympathy and assistance. During his sojourn in Ireland and England, he, at much personal inconvenience, made many visits to those he thought might further the work of the C.I.C. Owing to the Dean’s tireless energy we are already corresponding with some of these gentlemen. During the evening Dean Regnault spoke at length on the sad state of affairs in Mexico. ST. JOSEPH’S PARISH COMMITTEE, WELLINGTON. St. Joseph’s parish committee met at the presbytery, Patterson street, on Wednesday, February 24. The Rev. Father Barra presided, and there was a good attendance of members. Mr. P. Hopkins, representative of the Marist Brothers’ Old Boys’ Cricket Club, took ‘his seat for the first time. The rev. chairman informed the meeting that Messrs. O’Regan and Poppelwell (Dominion president) had offered to deliver lectures on behalf of the committee Mr. O’Regan after Lent, and Mr. Poppelwell about July. It was resolved to give a medal to the boy or girl attending the schools who procured the highest number of subscriptions during the year. CATHEDRAL PARISH COMMITTEE. The Christchurch Cathedral parish committee met on last Monday evening in the Federation rooms, Wiltshire Buildings, Mr. J. R. Hayward (vice-president) occupied the -chair, and there was a large attendance. It was reported that vigorous efforts were being made to enrol new members and to collect this year’s subscriptions. A useful discussion on municipal matters took place, and the enrolment of Catholic voters for the ensuing elections was arranged for. A pleasing unanimity prevails in the branch committee, all the members endeavoring to help on the Federation, and make it a real live force. CHRISTCHURCH DIOCESAN COUNCIL. (From our own correspondent.) The executive committee of the Christchurch Diocesan Council met on last Saturday evening in the Federation rooms, Wiltshire Buildings. The president (Mr. W. Hayward, jun.) presided, and, having been one of the delegates to the recent meeting of the Dominion Council, gave a report of the business transacted there. The secretary reported on a. large amount ofjgcorrespondence received and dealt with since the previous meeting, among which was a periodical report, sent by the manager of the Burnham Industrial School, giving the names of Catholic boys who had been placed

in situations. Mr. Archey was very sincerely thanked for his continued courtesy to the' executive , in this matter. It was resolved ' to ' adopt the resolution of the Dominion Council , relative to the Diocesan Council contributing £4O towards the cost of erecting a permanent church building on the military camp grounds at Trentham, and the secretary was instructed to circularise all. branches on the subject. The secretary of the Timaru branch reported that an objectionable film had been exhibited in that town, and it was resolved to take action on the, receipt of fuller information. . /- The following reply was received from his Lordship Bishop Cleary, having reference to resolutions adopted at the recent Diocesan Council half-yearly meeting at Timaru ‘ The Bishop of Auckland returns cordial thanks to the Christchurch Diocesan Council of the Catholic Federation for their kind and encouraging resolution.’ PROGRESS IN VARIOUS CENTRES. P (From our Christchurch correspondent.) March 1. On last Saturday week, the Catholics from all parts of the widely scattered parochial district of' Ahaura assembled at the presbytery grounds for a picnic and demonstration, arranged by the Rev. "Father O’Hare. A strong wish was locally expressed for the attendance of the organising secretary of the Federar tion, but Mr. Girling-Butcher found that the nearness of date to the meeting of the Dominion Council prevented him from undertaking the journey. Totara Flat, in the Ahaura parochial district, has been selected as the site for the Westland Territorial encampment, at which it is expected five or six hundred Catholic men will be present. The military chaplain will be the Rev. Father O’Hare, and for his convenience, and that of those under his spiritual charge, the Christchurch Diocesan Council will endeavor to provide a marquee for the celebration of Mass, and for the purposes of a Catholic institute. The Akaroa branch of the Catholic Federation is arranging to celebrate in a fitting manner the festival of the Apostle of Ireland on March 17. Mass will be celebrated at nine o’clock in the local Church of St. Patrick, after which an excursion across the harbor in launches to Te Kan Bay will take place,,and the day spent in picnicking. A large Catholic gathering is expected on the occasion, and probably members of the executive committee of the Christchurch Diocesan Council will attend. The Geraldine, Temuka, and Timaru branches of the Catholic Federation are, on behalf of the Diocesan Council, doing all that it possible locally in the interests of the military chaplain and of Catholic men in attendance at the Territorial camp at Orari. The mounted men go into camp at W aim ate, and the branch of the Federation there has been asked to provide all that may be necessary for the Catholic chaplain and men of our faith. Acting on the privilege extended by resolution, passed at the recent meeting of the Christchurch Diocesan Council at Timaru, a well-attended meeting was held on last Sunday afternoon in the Catholic schoolroom, Spencer street, Addington, to form a branch of the Federation in that extensive and thickly-populated district. The diocesan secretary was present, explained the necessary procedure in the formation of a branch, and furnished the material for its proper working. Mr. G. Getson, who has evinced great interest in Federation matters, and was a representative of the former Addington sub-committee on the Cathedral branch committee, urged loyal co-operation with the Federation, a, keen sympathy with and helpful interest in what it stood for. One point Mr. Getson commented upon, and one that should be more widely known, was 1 in relation to our military forces, at home and. abroad, and what the Federation was doing for them as compared to non-C&thplic organisations. The following six

. V-- 'A-• . . • b from; among those present were elected to represent the congregation on tire branch "committee; • M. O’Leary Mrs. H. Wilson, Miss B. M. Sloan, Mr. G. Getson,' Mr. J., Dunn, and Mr. J l . Courtney. The various Church societies were invited to supply the names of two representatives each, and a sub-committee to act with the new branch will be formed at Halswell. A new branch of the. Federation has been .formed at Makikihi, in the Waimate parish, and members of the Diocesan Council executive are to visit Little River on, Sunday, March 14, to establish a branch there. AUCKLAND LITERATURE COMMITTEE. The ordinary monthly meeting of the literature committee of the Auckland Diocesan Council was held in the Federation’s office, Auckland, on March 3. There were present— Rev. Mgr. , Brodie, V.G., Misses Callan and Jacobsen, and Mr. F. G. J. Temm. Monsignor Brodie presided in the absence of the president (Rev. Father Doyle), who, owing to an urgent engagement, was prevented from being present. An apology for absence was also received from Mr. L. O’Malley. The secretary (Miss Callan) reported that, in accordance with the resolution carried at the last meeting, she had circularised several members of the clergy with regard to the equipping of a Catholic reference library in the Federation office. Monsignor Brodie reported that he had now a number of books for the purpose. Very Rev. Dean Mahoney (Onehunga) advised the committee that he would be pleased to assist in the direction desired, and that he would forward a number of books through the president of the Diocesan Council. Very Rev. Father Buckley (Q&ihuhu) wrote to the effect that he had forwarded a number of books to the Cathedral presbytery. Mr. Temm reported that, in accordance with the wish of the committee at the last meeting, he had investigated the complaint received with regard to a very objectionable publication, and he found the position was as stated. The matter was discussed, and it was decided that the committee should take action. Monsignor Brodie suggested that before going further with the matter, the committee should communicate with Mr. J. A. Scott, editor of the N.Z. Tablet, and put the case before him, as that gentleman would be in the best position to advise as to whether anything could be done, and the proper course to take. It was decided to adopt the course suggested. Miss Callan tendered her resignation as secretary to the committee, owing to her approaching departure from Auckland. She regretted having to sever her connection with the committee, but expressed the hope that she would possibly be able to further the interests and aims of the organisation in the future. Monsignor Brodie said Miss Callan’s resignation would be received with very great regret, and her place would be difficult to fill. Her departure from Auckland was a great loss to the Catholic Federation, in which she always took such a great and active interest, and to the Literature Committee in particular. lie thanked Miss Callan for her past services and wished her every blessing in the. future. Miss Jacobsen also voiced her regret at the departure of Miss Callan, and said that what was Auckland’s loss would certainly be the gain of Hawke’s Bay. It was decided that the appointment of secretary, as successor to Miss Callaii, should stand over till the next meeting, Mr. Temm agreeing to act in that capacity in the meantime.