PAPAKURA RESIDENT PRIEST.

Auckland Star, Volume LIX, Issue 23, 28 January 1928, Page 13

PAPAKURA RESIDENT PRIEST.

FATHER DUFFY WELCOMED,

(From Our Own Correspondent.)

PAPAKURA, Friday.

A large number of the "Catholic community of Papakura gathered in the Parish Hall, Papakura, on Thursday evening to tender a welcome to the first resident priest in Papakura (Father Duffy) who has been appointed parish priest. The chair was occupied by Mr. H. E. McEntee, and associated on the stage with him were: Revs. Father Duffy, Molloy (Pukekolie), Dunphy (Otahuhu), Rev. W. C. Wood (vicar of Papakura), Mr. E. D. McLennan, M.P. for Franklin, Mr. Jas. McColl (chaiiman of Papakura Town Board), and Messrs. T. G. Smith, S. D. Rice and Dr. J. B. Page. The chairman, Mr. H. E. McEntee, in the opening address, expressed his great pleasure at seeing such a large and representative gathering to welcome Papakura's first resident priest. Mr. McEntee pointed out that ManureWa and Papakura had formed a new parish, and this surely showed the progress of the district and warranted the priest's appointment. In conclusion he extended a very hearty welcome to Father Duffy, and assured him of the people's wholehearted support. Revs. Fathers Molloy, of Pukekohe, and Dunphy, of Otahuhu, expressed their pleasure at being present, and were very happy to have Father Duffy as a neighbour.

The Rev. W. C. Wood, vicar of Papakura, stated that he had been in Papakura 18 years on January 29, and considered it one of the best spots in New Zealand.

Mr. E. D. McLcnnan, M.P., recalled fond memories .of Father McDonald, and thought it a step in the right direction in having a separate parish. Mr. McCall and Mr. S. D. Rice were among other speakers to extend words of welcome.

In replying Father Duffy thanked all for their words of welcome and for the reception extended to him.