PROGRESSIVE METHODISM.

Auckland Star, Volume LIX, Issue 276, 21 November 1928, Page 8

PROGRESSIVE METHODISM.

WORK HI AUCKLAND.

SITTINGS OP THE SYNOD.

The annual district synod of the Methodist Church commenced its representative session in the Pitt Street Church this morning. The chair was taken by the president of the conference, the Rev. W. J. Elliott, of Papakura. A large number of delegates was present representing all branches of the activities of the Church.

The Ministerial Committee met yesterday at morning and afternoon sessions. The Revs. J. Hall, N. Larson, W. Silvester and H. H. Jeffreys were recommended to be passed in their respective years of probation, while Messrs. Carr and Gray were sent forward as candidates for the ministry. Encouraging reports were given of the work of the students in training, and seven men were recommended for circuit work next year.

The synod service was held in the Pitt Street Church last evening, the preacher being the Rev. L. B. Dalby.

In the course of his presidential address the Rev. W. J. Elliott said the year had seen considerable development in the Methodist Church in the Auckland district as well as in other parts of the Dominion. A new parsonage had been built at Port Albert, Sunday schools and church halls had been built at Edendale and in the Onehunga and Paparoa circuits. The Mount Albert church had been enlarged at a cost of £3500. The two most notable achievements within the Auckland district had been the completion of the Trinity Theological College hostel and the Paerata College chapel.

The Cific Reception. Members of the Methodist Synod were accorded a civic reception this morning, the Mayor, Mr. Bongard, expressing pleasure at seeing bo many visitors. Rev. S. Henderson replied, expressing appreciation, and advocating harmonious relationship between the Church and municipal authorities, the one aiding the work of the othei. He congratulated the Mayor on signs of progress in Thames, as seen in the fine highways and new buildings.

The Synod expressed appreciation of the past services to the Church o fthe late Mr. W. Horn, the Te Aroha member of last year's Synod, with sympathy to his relatives. A vote in appreciation of the lifelong services of the late Rev. D. J. Murray and condolence with his relatives was also recorded.

The chairman, in his opening address, welcomed new members as well as the whole of the Synod, to Thames. He referred to the recent setback on the prohibition question, and made a stirring appeal not to be discouraged. They must take the setback aa a challenge, and set a higher standard of moral life. If the fight against liquor must be carried to a finish, if it cost money, then the Church must take a stand' The Church was facing great difficulties of finance, indifference and half-hearted-neee. They should not whine like children because of these problems, but look for fresh inspiration.