Church Concern At “Certain Aspects ” Of Christmas Parties

Press, Volume XCVII, Issue 28758, 2 December 1958, Page 16

Church Concern At “Certain Aspects ” Of Christmas Parties

(New Zealand Press Association)

WELLINGTON, Nov. 30. “Representations have been made to the New Zealand InterChurch Council on Public Affairs regarding certain aspects of the growing custom of pre-Christmas parties and end-of-year activities arranged in offices, workshops and factories,” says the council chairman, Bishop E. J. Rich. “The council consists of representatives of the Anglican, Presbyterian, Roman Catholic, Methodist, Baptist, Congregational and Lutheran churches, the Associated Churches of Christ, the Salvation Army and the Society of Friends. “Press articles before last Christmas referred to the burden which is placed on businessmen by this growing custom,” said Bishop Rich. “It is not unnatural that people associated happily together in some business enterprise or work should wish to mark their fellowship together, but Christmas is essentially a

Christian festival and all that is done should be in accord with the real import of the season. ‘‘Some features of these parties are causing distress to some who are called upon to share in them. The pressure of social customs on the young can be very great and no-one should be placed in a position where offence will be given to his conscience. “There are many ways in which the spirit of goodwill associated with Christmas can find expression. There are always worthy causes to support and there is no better way of gaining happiness for ourselves than by bringing happiness to the less fortunate sections of the community. “The council appeals to all who hold posts of leadership in the community to give a lead in this matter that nothing may be done which will cause unhappiness or embarrassment to young men and women who are striving to be true to the highest ideals,” Bishop Rich says.