BISHOP WARREN’S TRIBUTE

Press, Volume XCVI, Issue 28323, 8 July 1957, Page 10

BISHOP WARREN’S TRIBUTE

“The passing of the Most Reverend Alfred Walter Averill closes a long period in the history of the Church of the Province of New Zealand, during which he served with distinguished devotion,” said the Bishop of Christchurch (the Rt. Rev. A. K. Warren) yesterday. “He began his ministry as a curate at St. George’s, Hanover square, one of London’s fashionable churches, but, indicative of his balanced nature, he soon sought a curacy in London’s East End so that he might grow to know all sides of life,” said Bishop Warren. “For fifteen years he served the Diocese of Christchurch. His ministry as vicar of St. Michael’s was marked by outstanding vigour. People thronged to hear his practical sermons and long rows of carriages stretched down the streets surrounding the church. “'Throughout his time in Christchurch he was chaplain of the Public Hospital when Nurse Maude was matron. It was largely due to his encouragement that she forsook her career, end associated herself with the Community of the Sacred Name and founded the Nurse Maude District Nursing Association. “He strove to make the Christian religion permeate community affairs. Not only was he an exponent <?f practical Christianity, but he was a sound administrator,” said Bishop Warren. “The vigour of his personal faith gave wisdom to his counsel and power to his personality.”