Fewer Deaconesses In Training

Press, Volume CV, Issue 30980, 9 February 1966, Page 2

Fewer Deaconesses In Training

It seems that fewer girls these days are prepared to take on a job which requires self sacrifice and dedication. This does appear to be the case in deaconess training, and Mrs Gladys Gauntlett, retiring lady superintendent of the Methodist Deaconess House in Christchurch considers early marriage may be the cause.

The number of girls com ing forward for training is diminishing, and this year there are only two in residence at the Latimer square house. “It is very satisfying work, but a girl must be prepared to give up a number of years to her work to use her training to the full,” Mrs Gauntlett said. “Both girls here have had experience of outside life before coming here so that they are quite sure this is the right life for them.” The three-year training per | iod includes intensive Bible study, church history, education ethics, counselling, psychology and theology. In the final year trainees are sent to mission work, circuit work, or work amongst the Maoris. At present the house also has 27 students in residence, and Mrs Gauntlett has a large family to care for.

Her duties include keeping the household accounts, and running the house, but mainly she “acts as a mother.” During her 14 years as superintendent she has befriended many young residents and has a high opinion of today’s youth. “They are basically very fine, but of course times change, and we older ones should help them with our own ideals and try to look at things from their point of view,” she said. Before coming to New Zea|land from England in 1949 Mrs Gauntlett was active in a youth club sponsored by the Youth Education Department. When her daughter married a New Zealander she and her f son decided to migrate to this country. After her son married she “had to do something” and she now has very mixed feelings about leaving her post. “I know I am going to miss the wonderful comoanionship.” she said.