MISS C. HENDERSON, B.A.

White Ribbon, Volume 20, Issue 4, 1 May 1948, Page 5

MISS C. HENDERSON, B.A.

Perhaps one of the most poignant moments of Convention was that in which the announcement of Miss Henderson’s resignation from the position of Legal and Parliamentary Superintendent was made. It was as though a prop had been removed from a building; and a risk of collapse had suddenly been recognised. Her 36 years of service in this highly important department has meant so much to our work; and the feeling of security given by her great familiarity with this side of it has been like a safety zone in the midst of our many activities. “Miss Henderson says . . .” is one of the commonest phrases on our lips when matters pertaining to this department are being considered. And now, the time has come for her to lay down this work. Small w r onder that we feel lost and bewildered. Mrs. Hiett moves that a Minute of Appreciation be recorded in these terms: “Wellington. “It is with a sense of great loss that we accept Miss C. Henderson’s retirement from the Superintendency of the Legal and Parliamentary Department of the N.Z.W.C.T.U. For 23 years Miss Henderson gave outstanding service as N.Z. Corresponding Secretary and she combined with that the Legal and Parliamentary Department. She continued as Superintendent of the latter for a further 13 years. 36 years as

N.Z. Officer is proof of her ability. Her sound judgment, her quick perception and her straightforward conclusions w’ere a source of strength to her fellow officers. At Conventions her decisions gave solidity to the work undertaken. “Miss Henderson never spared herself when Union business required her time and energy. She gladly sacrificed time and strength to promote and extend the work of the W.C.T.U. She was full of encouragement to new and timid members. Because of her keen brain, her sound commonsense and her steadfast faith in God, she made a wonderful contribution to the stability and good standing of the N.Z.W.C.T.U. We wish for our friend and co-w’orker the fulfilment of the promise—‘ln quietness and confidence shall be your strength.’ ” And the motion is passed. Then another motion is proposed, seconded, and carried with great enthusiasm: “That Miss Henderson be made a Life Member of the N.Z.W.C.T.U.” And so the moment passes. But the personality, the edifice of carefully selected material built up through the years, and the self-effacing earnestness on behalf of the cause of righteousness will remain in the hearts and memories of all who have been privileged to work with her through the years. And, her work will remain. It is imperishable !