NEW CATHOLIC SCHOOL.

Press, Volume LXII, Issue 18634, 8 March 1926, Page 3

NEW CATHOLIC SCHOOL.

OrENED AT KAIAPOt. The new Catholic, school at Kaiapoi was opened yesterday by his Lordship Bishop Brodie in the presence of a large gathering of members of the congregation. In the course of his address, Bishop Brodie said that the day -would be .one of solemn memories and inspirations. The. completion of the school and the opening of the convent would recall the life and death of the Very Rev. Deau Ilyland, the zealou,s priest who had initiated the work, and who, on the very last day of his life, completed the purchase of the property which would now be used as a convent and residenco for the Sisters of the Mission. Dean Hvlaud's ambition for many years had been to see the establishment of a Catholic school at Eaiapoi, and with his keen business foresight he accumulated funds for the purpose that the wish of his heart might bo realised. He was not spared to accomplish the task, but all would realiso that it was due to his zeal and his generosity that the happy ceremony of that day could be attributed. To Father Leen was due every credit for having in such a short space of time since the death of Dean Hyland carried to successful completion the aspirations and plans of his revered predecessor. From this day forward Eaiapoi would rejoice in having amongst its residents a community of the Sisters of the Mission. His Lordship felt assured that the parishioners of Kaiapoi would conscientiously avail themselves of the opportunities now placed within their reach of sending their children to the school conducted by the Sisters of The Mission. His Lordship said that although the convent had been purchased and the school had been erected out of tho funds raised by Dean Hyland for the purpose, yet there were incidental expenses in the way of furnishing and equipping tho convent and school "which would have to be defrayed, and he believed that the people of Kaiapoi would show their readiness to revere the momory oi Dean Hyland and co-operate with their present zealous priest, Father Leen, by generously contributing to the collection which would bo taken up. His Lordship then proceeded to bless the new school, and at the completion of the ceremony extended his compliments and congratulated tho architect and the builder on the success of their work in turning out such a neatly-designed and carefully-erected building. After tho ceremony, the school building was thrown open for inspection. Favourable comment was made upon its suitability, and the, provision for lighting and ventilation. The building, which is of ferro-concrete, has been designed on modern lines by Mr H. St. A. Murray, architect, Mr Horn, of Christchurch, being tho contractor. The school measures 48ft by 22ft, and is divided into two class-rooms, separated by folding- doors, accommodation being provided for 80 pupils.