THE REV. BOWER BLACK.

Press, Volume LX, Issue 18202, 13 October 1924, Page 11

THE REV. BOWER BLACK.

FAREWELL CATHEEING AT

I CARTERTON. There iris an overflowing attendance 'at the farewell social tendered.to tho Rev. AY. Bower Black and Mrs Black at the Presbyterian Sunday School a.t Carterton ou Thursday evening. Mr Black, who had ministered in Carterton for tho past three years, is leaving to take charge ot St. Paul's Parish, Christ church. Before coming to the south, he will visit Dannevirke and j Auckland. The Rev. J. Davie (Moderator). said ho was glad to bo present to join with tho Carterton congregation in. sending off the minister and his "wife .in such a becoming manner. He had paid a high tribute to Mr Black's work, particularly among the voung men, and hoped that when he got to St. Paul's the opportunitv would bo afforded bin.) of carry ing on this good work. He congratulated St. Paul's on receiving a minister of such promise. The timo came in the lives of some men when they.must leave the sphere of ease and of their choice for one of greater activity. On behalf of the Presbytery and the Knox congregation ho wished Mr and Mrs Black "God-speed," and trusted that the benediction of tho Holy lather would be always with them. The Rev. R. Young (St.. Mark s) said the largo gathering indicated one of two things—either they were pleased Mr Black was going, or they were sorry to loso him. H© believed it was the latter. . Dt. D. G. Johnston said that it. was with sorrow in their hearts that they congratulated Mr Black on his preferment. He possessed gifts that were well known throughout New, Zealand and that, were hardly realised here. Some dav the realisation would make them feel proud that Mr Black had worked in their midst. In asking Mr Black to accept a-wallet containing a substantial cheque from the Carterton and Gladstone congregations, Dr. Johnston wished him and his wife God's blessing in their new sphere. Mr Edio voiced t.he managers' regret at, losing Mr Black and Mrs IX G. Johnston, on behalf of the P.W-M-L., spoke of tho wonderful strength Mrs Black had been to that body in her quiet, unassuming way. • Mr 0. Jansen, on behalf of the Bible Class, and the Rev. I). McKenzie (Grevtown) spoke in like manner. The Rev! Mr Black thanked the speakers for the very cordial expressions of goodwill. His ministry in Carterton had been brief, and it was against his own inclination that was leaving. Tt had not been a, light tiling to take tlv> sten and bad proved one of his hardest, fights, hut he felt, it- was the Divine will. He thanked them all sincerely for the creat kindness, and thev would often look back wiui fondness nn t.b-- years spent in Carterton.