AUCKLAND CENTRAL MISSION.

Auckland Star, Volume XXXVI, Issue 276, 18 November 1905, Page 7

AUCKLAND CENTRAL MISSION.

A very enthusiastic reception was accorded last evening to Mr and Mrs Black, the new missioner and his wife, who have just arrived from Australia to take charge of the Central Mission work in Auckland. There was a very big gathering at both the tea and public meeting afterwards, and the hall was beautifuly decorated for the occasion. Mr VV. H. Smith presided, and on the platform were the Rev. Mr Davi3, Mr Dimant (from Australia), and various mission officials, who gave addresses of greeting, and took a leading part in the welcome. The chairman, introducing Mr and Mrs Black publicly, rejoiced that God in His good providence had sent along at the very time when most needed the right man to superintend the work, a work which had grown so amazingly during the past eight years. He referred to Mr Black's mission record in Australia, which had been very successful, and he' could guarantee to the missioners the sympathy and prayers of the entire workers, who would assuredly stand by them, and aid them in every possible way. Mr Black acknowledged in a short but telling address the right loyal -welcome accorded to" him and his wife, and was most assured that God had called them to come and undertake the work. The missioner evidently made himself at home with the people, not only by his forceful utterances, but by his intense desire to be useful throughout the city. Not the least qualification in Mr and Mrs Black is' that they are both gifted' singers, and as they sang and accompanied themselves on the piano the audience felt the charm of their presence, and reciprocated with vigorous applause. Mrs Wood sang a sacred solo with much fgtlrnj-