Ashburton Guardian Magna est Veritas et Prævalebit WEDNESDAY, MAY 1, 1935. HONOURED LEADERS.

Ashburton Guardian, Volume 55, Issue 169, 1 May 1935, Page 4

Ashburton Guardian Magna est Veritas et Prævalebit WEDNESDAY, MAY 1, 1935. HONOURED LEADERS.

The conjunction of two events of interest to the Anglican Communion make the occasion a fitting one for reference in. the secular press. Each of these events has particular appeal to the people of Canterbury, for both the prelates around whom the circumstances centre —Archbishop Julius and Archbishop Averill —have personal connection with the Church in this province. Naturally, however, residents of this county have more direct personal interest in Archbishop Julius, who for forty-five years has been a central figure in so many activities in Christchurch. No churchman in New Zealand generally and Canterbury in particular is regarded with deeper affection. He has been famed in this Dominion since 1890 for his penetrating commonsense, his gift of humour, his imagination, and his plain speaking. As a man he exhibited great charm and kindliness and as a preacher he was, and still is, blessed with a gift of oratory that sways multitudes. Bishop of Christchurch for thirty-five years, and Primate of New Zealand for three, he faithfully served his Church and his province, and enriched both by his clear thinking and plain, gracious speech. Although he retired in 1925 he remains one of the wisest counsellors of the Anglican Communion. His tolerance, candour, good humour, and perfect use of the language have endeared him to the people not only of his own Church, but to those of every other denomination. He has always been a virile figure, end the completion of Christchurch Cathedral was due in a large measure tci his personal advocacy,: The erection of church schools, and of St. Saviour’s orphanages and the establishment of the Order of St. Anne showed his love for the young people. He has b6en described as an inspiration to the members of the Church and an ornament to the clergy. When announcing his decision to retire, e Archbishop referred to his advanced age of 77, and said he was almost the oldest bishop by date of consecration in the communion. To-day he is th senior bishop. For Archbishop Averill, whose twenty-five years of service as bishop and ten as Metropolitan, were celebrated in Auckland yesterday, the whole Dominiion has kindly regard, as a citizen and.leader as well as bishop and priest. Of his conscientiousness and care for every part of a _ jarg diocese, of his skill as an aduumstrator and his balance as '® . . Chairman his own church wdl speak gratefully and thankfully.