CHRISTCHURCH MINISTERS' ASSOCIATION.

Press, Volume LI, Issue 8729, 27 February 1894, Page 6

CHRISTCHURCH MINISTERS' ASSOCIATION.

A special meeting of the Christchurch Ministers' Association was held yesterday in the Durham street Church vestry. Presenb—Revs. VV. Birch (President), \V. Morley, J. N. Bubble, F. VV. Isitt, J. Orchard, A. Mitchell, F. F. Read, W. Barnetb, and J. Dawson (Secrebary).

A discussion arose on the report of the last meeting which appeared in tbe daily papers* and the following resolution was carriedr* — "Thab the President of the Association having personally accepted the responsibility of tne report of the last meeting of the Association which appeared in the local papers, and having maintained its substantial accuracy, the meeting expressed its regret ab some of the terms used."

A lebter from the Prohibition League waa then read, referring to the above-named report, and asking tuat a deputation of the Leagues might be received to confer with the Association on the matter, The following resolutions were then adopted:— •* (1.) That the deputation from the Prohibition League be informed that the report appearing in the newspapers was not expreas'y authorised by the Association) but waa furnished by the President, who Btates that the latter part of it was a correct accouut of the views expressed, viz., that many who desire absolute prohibition, think it wiser to vote for a reduction of licenses as more immediately practicable. (2.) That the Association regrets the sentence referring to 'a torch-lighted waggon and a theatrical stage' as aeeming to cast some ridicule upon the temperance movement, With which the Association is fully in sympathy. (3.) Thab with respect to the body of the report the Association cannot agree that it * tends to discredit a moral aud social reform,' but simply indicates that while .there is agreement as to principle, there is a difference of opinion as to the details and the best method of conducting the campaign. (4.) That while acknowledging some of the terms of the newspaper report are to be regretted, j the Association calls the attention of the [ deputation to the fact that ab some public meetings certain of the prohibition speakers have deacribed the attitude of the ministers towards the movement in words thab were ill-advised and indiscriminabing. This the Association deplores." The deputation, conaisbing of Meaars G. J. Smith, M.H.R., T. E. Taylor j Heath, and Robinson, expressed their satisfaction at the decision of the meeting. The outcome of the conversation resulted in a better understanding and in the following resolution being adopted:—" That it is desirable that a conference of citizena be held to consider the present aspect of the liquor question, with a view to 'secure the administration of the Alcoholic Liquor Sales Control Act in the best interests of the whole community, and that a Committee consisting of the President, Secretary, Mr Isitt and the mover be appointed to carry out the arrangements."