WORK AMONG SEAMEN.

White Ribbon, Volume 20, Issue 238, 19 April 1915, Page 28

WORK AMONG SEAMEN.

Dunedin. re ceived from Mrs Pear-on, the Superintendent of the department, from whic li 1 gather the following : —The Dunedin “Rest” has been in existence twentynine years. It ha- been the means of helping a very large number of “those who go down to the sea in ships.” Spiritual help has always been to the fore, and the workers are able to prai-e God for untold blessing on their work, which has been truly a labour of love. The Missioner, Mr Robertson, visits every deep water vessel that comes into port, and all on board are invited to visit the “Rest” and make use of all its advantages. There are evangelistic meetings, and meetings for recreation, a library, magazines, illustrated and daily newspapers. It is much used for letter writing, and it is not too much to say that hundreds of let-

ters are written during the year, which would not have been written but for the provision made for them at the “Rest,” keeping the men in torn h wiHi home, and having a good effect on their daily lives. Mrs Palmer, the caretaker, i- never too busy to make a cup of tea, and to mother and attend her sailor boys. Mr Robertson is assisted by a band of willing workers. A d-bt of gratitude is due to them for their unselfish and purely voluntary labours. The Committee gratefully acknowledge the proprietors of the “Dunedin St.ir” for free copies dailv, also the proprietor of the “Outlook" for weekly copy; also the* many friends who have made donations of books, magazines, and illustrated papers, and to those good friends whose annual contributions make it possible for the* “Rest” to be carried on. Also to the various coal companies for their generous gifts of coal during the* winter months. Timaru. —The Timaru “Sailors’ Rest” still continues it> good work under the able management of Mr and Mrs Stead. (>7; sailors have made 1244 visit- during the year. The men arc able to read, write letteis, and play games. They often express to Mr Stead their appreciation of the efforts made for their help and comfort. Wo have to thank the Winchmore Union for a “comfort bag” soc ial evening, which was much enjoyed. Bundle- of literature have been supplied to the outgoing vessels. We have to thank the* public of Timaru for literature and donations towards the funds, which meet all expenses. Creymouth. Grcymouth reports a good year at the* “Rest,” the* seamen visiting the* port look upon it as their home. The caretaker and his wife receive many letters and post-card-' from the* men, who look forward to seeing them again. Several social evenings have been held during the year. Kleven pledges have been taken. Flowers and papers have been distributed. A successful picnic was held on Labour Day, arranged by the caretaker and hi- friends. A perfect dav was spent in the country, and enjoyed bv all. The wreck of the “Kairaki” i- feelinglv mentioned in the report. Onlv a few days before the caretaker’s little girl received a post-card from one of the* men, telling her they were looking forward to having a good time at the “Rest.” A room has been fitted up for the u-e of men who may remain on -hore. Sundav evening meetings arc held. Sankey’s hymns are sung. Greymouth is getting on, and is hoping for greater results next year. Lyttelton. —Thirteen members of the W’.C.T.U. are members of the Ladies’ Guild, and assi-t the Superintendent of the Seamen’s Institute 11 whatever is going on. The Sunday evening services are well attended. An entertainment and supper is given weekly. Sunday teas are provided. Special services and socials arc held during the week, and Saturday picni.s

occasionally. In all the above some of the members of the W.G.T.L. assist. A weekly Bible Class for the sailors is conduc ti d by one of the members. Westpcrt. The Siiloi-’ Re t Com uuttee 1- composed ol three members of the W.C. 1.1 . and c itizens of West port, who take a great interest in the work. The “Rest is well attended. The caretaker and his wife look well after the men, who much appreciate the comfortable place provide d for them. The “Rest” owes it- existence to the W.C.T.U. Christcnurch and Rangiara made comfort bags, which arc* greatly appreciated by the men, and are usually presented at the < lose of the Christmas entertainment. Courteous replies were received from Nelson, Xc w Plymouth. Pahiatua, Hamilton, and Xgaere, but these had nothing spec ial to report. I am ini lined to think some of the Unions have not been as energetic in the c ause of the* seamc a as heretofore, but 1 think all have been taken up with work in connection with the ter rible war which is raging, so we will thank God and take cour. ge. A. E. WHITBY, New Zealand Superintendent.