MOUNT MAGDALA ASYLUM.

Press, Volume LIV, Issue 9868, 21 October 1897, Page 6

MOUNT MAGDALA ASYLUM.

The yearly collection which is made in the Roman Catholic churches throughout the diocese of Christchurch for tbe Magdala Asylum promises to produce very satisfactory results. This collection is always made upon the first Sunday in October. So far only a few returns are'in. These, however, indicate that a generous response is being made to the appeal on behalf of the institution. The contributions at the ProCathedral amounted to £25, at St. Mary's to £10, and at Geraldine to £6. The little parish of Darrield has come - most generously to the front in the; matter. In addition to contributing £6 in cash, sheep to the valne of nearly £100 have been given to the Asylum by fanners in thedistrict. Mr John Barrett gave twenty-five-: sheep of a superior breed, Mr O'Malleysheep to the value of £20, Mr Clinton twenty-five sheep, Mr Donovan five sheep, ■ Mr Holmes the same number, .and Mr Knight forty-one sheep. Mr Jas. Gill, as his share in the good work, undertook to-drrve the sheep without charge to Mount Magdala. As there are one hundred and thirty women who require to be fed and clothed in the institution, it will be readily understood that this generous effort of the Catholic people to support this refuge for the poor outcasts of society is not uncalled for. It is to be hoped that the example of the farmers of Darfield will stimulate the iberality of other settlers in Canterbury. Plans have been prepared by Mr J. C. Maddison, A.R.1.8. A., for additions to the Asylum, and tenders called for. There will be an addition to the chapel 35ft x 27ft; on tbe first floor two private rooms and a large dormitory, making it 70ft long, and on the second floor a new building 49ft long, also for dormitories. The elevation of the new building is Gothic in style, to correspond with the present building. The additions will be in brick, with white stone dressings.