BAPTIST TABERNACLE.

Auckland Star, Volume XXXIV, Issue 228, 24 September 1903, Page 2

BAPTIST TABERNACLE.

ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATIONS.

The 4Sth anniversary of tho Auckland Baptist Tabernacle was celebrated in the church buildings last evening by a soiree aud public meeting. A large number of people were present, including members of the Otahuhu Branch of the' church. The soiree was held previous to the general meeting, and passed off very successfully. The refreshments were provided by ladies of the church, and during the repast several musical selections wore given by the church choir. At eight o'clock in the main hall the public meeting was opened, the Rev. Pastor Clark occupying the chair. A musical programme was provided by the choir, and addresses were given by Rev. Pastor Clark, Rev. J. B. Sneyd, Rev. 11. B. Gray, Rev. A. North, and Mr R. B. Shalders. The last named gentleman is the sole survivor of the original fifteen who founded the first Baptist church in the North Island of this colony. The Secretary (Mr Scoring 11. Matthews) presented the annual report, which, after referring to the signs of increasing spirituality and general progress, stated that the total number of members on the roll was 045. Reference was to made to the restored health of the pastor; and the death of Messrs Edmund Ellingham and William Morgan, who were both elders of the church. The Sunday-school report shows that the number of scholars on the roll was 355, with 72 officers and teachers. Other branches of church work were reported to have been energetically carried on during the year, with encouraging results.

The total revenue for the year was £1101), and after paying all expenses and disbursements, there remained a credit balance of £44. Through other agencies of the church the sum of £340 was collected Of this amount £104 was expended on foreign missions, and £60 on home mission work. Out of the £44 balance the sum of £3S has been set aside for assisting the poor members of the church. The principal items of expenditure in connection with the church itself were: Ministerial salary, £400, and general expenses