TO TEACH THE GOSPEL.

Press, Volume XLIX, Issue 14645, 21 April 1913, Page 7

TO TEACH THE GOSPEL.

A NEW MISSION FOR. CHRIST, CHURCH. A now factor was introduced into the religions -world of Chr-stchurch last night, when the Central Mission was opened at tho Queen's Theatre, Hereford street, where it has been established to carry out its objects every Sun day evening. The Central Mission is a featuro of the spiritual life of some of tho other centres in New Zealand, but it is new to Christchurch; it has provided a new school of worship and teaching. Tho inaugural meeting last night was attended by a measuro of success which indicates that the Mission will bo well patronised here. Tho theatre was fillod, and a keen note of enthusiasm was sounded by tho congregation. Tho Mayor (Mr H. Holland) presided, and formally opened tho mission. Mr Holland said that tho establishment of the Mission provided a new agency fo. , spiritual work in Christchurch. Ho dealt with the success of tho Central Mission in other places, and in referring to tho objocts or" tho Mission and. the benefits which would be derived from its work ho expressed the hopo that success would go witli it. Mr Holland then introduced tho Rev. J. Cocker, who has como from Auckland to tako up tho permanent position of missioner. Mr Cockor'e connection with the Church and his labours in the ministry in other parts were traced by Mr Holland. The tsormou was preachod by tho Rev. J. Cooker, who eavo an interesting and instructive address. Although this was only the first meeting held by tho Mission, a strong choir was provided , for tho psalms and hymns, which principally consisted of hymns used by tho Chapman-Alexander mission. Tho Mission will be continued at tho Qneen's Theatre next Sunday.