ANNUAL SOCIAL

Press, Volume LXXV, Issue 22894, 15 December 1939, Page 2

ANNUAL SOCIAL

OXFORD TERRACE BAPTIST CHURCH TRADITION OF MOTHERS’ MEETING “This is the time when we gather all our happiness together; remember, real happiness comes because of what Christmas means,” said the Rev. L. J. Boulton Smith, addressing members of the Mothers’ Meeting of the Oxford Terrace Baptist Churcn and their guests at the annual Christmas party held in the schoolroom yesterday afternoon. It was the ministers first introduction to one of the traditions of his church For many years the Mothers’ Meeting has made this party for women of the church and their children one of their major activities. Always, decorations receive special care, and masses of flowers, Christmas decorations, and Father Christmas presiding at the Christmas tree, help to create the festive atmosphere. The long tables are laden with dainties, and decorated with sweet peas, and gifts are hidden in each mother’s place. There is the moment, too, when the guests in turn spring their surprise on the Mothers’ Meeting, and present the leaders with gifts in appreciation of the time and thought they have put into the entertainment. The children also take a leading part In the programme and yesterday there were songs by Kenneth Boniface tap dances by Shirley and Molly McDonald, and Percy Tyler; a pianoforte solo by Betty Fordham, a recitation by Charles Waldron, and a Christmas play presented under the direction of Mrs Beryl Windsor, by Colleen Williams, Ina Pitcher, Nancy McKellow, Elsie Cusack, Doreen Bruce, Kelvin Tyler, Lawrence Tyler, Kenneth Badcock, and George and Jack Pitcher. Mrs A. E. Brown was the accompaiv ist, and Mrs Robert McPherson was soloist for the opening carol, “O Come, All Ye Faithful.” Mrs V. Sim, leader of the meeting, specially welcomed Miss E. M. Gainsford, who has returned to Christchurch after two years spent in India and England, and two other well-known members of the church, Miss Boyd and Mrs Childs. ’ Miss Gainsford brought greetings from missions she had visited overseas, particularly from ttys West Ham Mission in London. About 1000 members attend the Mothers’ Meeting held there each week, she said. As in other years, Mr H. Sweney played the role of Father Christmas. The tearoom was in charge of Mrs Yates,' who was ably assisted by Mrs P. Kent (librarian), and other members of the meeting. The Christmas cake, made by Mrs Sim, and beautifully decorated by Mrs Reddell, was cut and distributed to the guests.