ST. JAMES' PRESBYTERIAN.

Auckland Star, Volume LXI, Issue 77, 1 April 1930, Page 9

ST. JAMES' PRESBYTERIAN.

CHURCH REUNION. In connection with the celebration of the sixty-fifth anniversary of the opening of St. James' Presbyterian Church, Wellington Street, a eocial gathering was held last evening, which was attended by over 300 past and present members. Mr. A. J. Entrioan was in the chair. Many old friendships were renewed and reminiscences exchanged. The Mayor, Mr. George Baildon, mentioned that as a boy ten years of age he first attended the Sunday School connected with the church in 1878. The Deputy Mayor also belonged to St. James', and at last election r.o less than seven members of the Auckland City Council were Presbyterians.

The Rev. I. E. Bertram tendered the good wishes from St. Andrew's to its '•'oldest daughter," and the Rev. R. L. Walker also recalled incidents during the time he was minister of the church.

Mr. Thomas Macky mentioned chat he was present at the opening service of the present church building 65 years ago. He recalled that there was a serious split in the ranks when the harmonium was introduced. In those days the congregation had to stand during the prayers, which sometimes lasted twenty minutes.

The present minister, Rev. Evan E. Harries, said the church was not yet weighed down by its age, as the contributions to missions were, greater than ever. Four of its members were, divinity students, and several ■past members were in the mission field. They were not content to live in the past, !jut still pressing on. Expressions of goodwill were tendered by Rev. William McDonald. Rev. D. C. Herron, Mr. Robert Farrell. Mr. J. C. Entrican. and Mr. Leslie Stewart. Musical items were contributed by Miss D. Hi?lop. Mr?. E. Clanachan. Mrs. Allan Bruce, and Mr. E. Paterson.