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New Zealand Tablet, Volume LII, Issue 49, 9 December 1925, Page 31

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(From our own Correspondent.) ; November 27. / The annual reunion and cricket match of ' ex-pupils was held at the Sacred Heart Convent, Remuera, on Saturday last. The weather was rather dull but a large number of old girls were present. The cricket match between past and present pupils was keenly contested, but once again the younger generation proved victorious. Afternoon tea was served during the course of the afternoon, and an entertainment provided by the students for their visitors was thoroughly enjoyed. On Monday evening last the Concert Chamber of the Town Hall was thronged to the doors on the occasion of the annual entertainment given by the pupils of St. Mary’s Convent. In fact large number? were unable to obtain admittance. The programme was of a very high standard and no better performance by the pupils of any school has been presented to the public for some years. The Sister Director and her assistants deserve unstinted praise for the excellence of their work. The programme opened with two selections, “Marche Militaire” and “Londonderry Air,” by the Convent Orchestra, rendered in excellent style. A choir of the senior pupils then gave two part songs, “Come, Sweet Morning” and “Lullaby,” their efforts being very warmly applauded. Miss Winnie Cook’s “Staccato Caprice” was exectned in this talented performer’s most capable style, and for this she w was recalled. A violin solo by Miss L. Dunnet —“Serenade” —was feelingly played and warmly applauded. A special feature of the evening was a display by the Eurythmic class, and the delightful grace with which the movements were executed evoked warm appreciation. Miss Edith Moore next rendered “Chopin Polonaise” in a most capable manner, while the fairy comedy “Man in the Moon” by a group of little girls was really delightful. The climax to the performance was reached in the staging of “Joan of Arc.” The most distinctive feature was the excellence of the characterisation, and the singing and acting were remarkably , good for such young performers. The concert in every way merited the support ac- . corded it and all were loud in their praise of the work of both students and Sisters. The examination of most of the Catholic schools in Christian doctrine has now been almost completed. Last week Rev. Father Bradley and Monsignor Cahill visited the Sacred Heart College. - The report is to be published later. The annual picnic for Brothers and boys of the Sacred Heart College at Mataitai, Waiheke Island, was held on Thursday. The weather was dull in the morning but brightened up considerably as the day advanced. Owing to the kindness of Mr. ' and Mrs. Allison an excellent site was secured for luncheon. The afternoon was spent in exploring the island and swimming. Before ~leaving the island, afternoon tea was partaken. On the wharf the boys, in their usual hilarious fashion,- tendered their thanks to those who had assisted to make the day enjoyable. The annual picnic is one of the

most important functions, in the college year for then teachers and pupils are closer together than at any other time, and that, feeling of comradeship was evident on this occasion. December 3. A conference of delegates from all parishes was held at St. Patrick’s Presbytery the other evening to consider ways and means to promote a monster bazaar in 1926, to raise funds for the establishment of two additional Catholic boys schools to meet the growing and pressing needs of Catholic children in the city of Auckland and suburbs. His Lordship Bishop Cleary presided over a meeting composed of about 50 representatives. The desirability of further school accommodation for Catholic boys was strongly stressed by the Bishop. It was decided to hold a queen carnival, in connection with the bazaar, to be held in the Town Hall in May next, and to offer a £IOO nugget in connection with the art union. Rev. Dr. Buxton was appointed secretary. A further meeting is to be held shortly to consider prizes to be offered, and judging by the energy shown the movement should meet with great success. It is pleasing to announce that it has been decided to form a Catholic Board of Education in Auckland on the lines of the Wellington body. The time is quite opportune, and the board should go a long way towards improving local educational matters. It is hoped to constitute the board at an early date. His Lordship the Bishop administered the Sacrament of Confirmation last Sunday at the Church of Our Lady of the Sacred Heart, Epsom, to about 50 children of the parish. Dr. Cleary, prior to the administration of the Sacrament, tendered his congratulations to the Rev. Father O’Byrne and the parishioners for their great work in providing such a beautiful edifice for the worship of God. I hear, said his Lordship, that the little children have played their part in building this house of God, and I feel very grateful to the children for what they have done, and I thank God for the efforts of all of you —from the parish priest down to the smallest child. Dr. Cleary delivered a most edifying address to the children and gave a simple but beautiful illustration of their Faith.

The Rev. Father O'Byrne, parish priest of Epsom, has left Auckland on a well earned holiday. Rev. Father O'Brien will take his place meanwhile.

Much sympathy is extended by a large circle of friends to Mr. Dan Flynn and his family at the indifferent health of Mrs. Flynn who is now laid up in'the Mater. Mrs. Flynn, who is a very devout Catholic, belongs to the Ponsonby parish where the family have lived for many years and are known as ardent church workers. Prayers have been offered for the speedy recovery of Mrs. Flynn.

Mrs. Niven is holding an "evening" on Thursday at her residence, Remuera, in aid of her stall at the bazaar which will shortly take place. The Remuera, parishioners' are working hard for this bazaar, which should result in a substantial sum being raised. Sister Mary Augustine, one of the oldest members of the Order of Mercy in Auckland, passed away on Wednesday. Fifty years ago

she taught school, at St. Peter’s, Hobson Street, -May her soul rest in peace. A very successful “euchre and dance” was held in the apartments adjoining the Mater Hospital recently. The proceeds will be devoted to the fund established to extend the hospital. It was well supported by Catholics from all parts, and augurs well for the success of a similar function to be held in a week’s time. This is an object that the Catholics of Auckland can well help. The institution is one of the best in New Zealand. DEATH OF MR/ W. J. NAPIER. Mr. William Joseph Napier, the well-known Auckland barrister, passed away last Saturday, at a private hospital. He was one of Auckland’s early colonists. Born in Ireland, Mr. Napier arrived in Auckland when he was five years of age, and received his early education at St. Peter’s Catholic School, Hobson Street. Thirty years ago he was one of Auckland’s foremost public men, and an eloquent speaker. For many years he was legal adviser to Sir George Grey, and was connected with many celebrated legal cases. He took a prominent part in local affairs; represented Auckland in Parliament ; was connected with the Victoria League and a Fellow of the Royal Colonial Institute. Mr. Napier is survived by his widow and two sons. A Requiem Mass was celebrated at St. Patrick’s Cathedral by the Rev. Father Buckley, prior to interment at Hillsborough Cemetery, A large number of prominent citizens were present at the Mass, including the Chairman of the Harbor Board (Mr. H. R. Mackenzie); Captain Duder, formerly Auckland Harbor Master; Mr. Robert Farrell; Mr. T. Lamont, Mayor of Devonport; the president of the Auckland Law Society, Mr. A. H. Johnstone; Messrs. R. McVeagh, J. Alexander, Vernier Walle, the president of the committee of the English Speaking Union; representatives of the North Shore Cricket Club and Auckland Orphans’ Club. Rev. Father Buckley assisted by Rev. Father Furlong officiated at the graveside. The members of the legal profession attended the Supreme Court on Wednesday to pay a tribute to the memory of the late Mr. Napier.—R.l.P.