PLEASANT- AFTERNOON

Dominion, Volume 31, Issue 128, 24 February 1938, Page 4

PLEASANT- AFTERNOON

Welcome And Farewell At St. Paul's Masses of lovely flowers decorated St. Paul’s schoolroom on the occasion of a reception to the new vicar, the Rev. D. J. Davies, the new organist, Mr. David Blair, and a farewell to the Rev. Gordon McKenzie and his mother. Mr. McKenzie has been appointed to the charge of St. Michael and All Angels Church, Kelburn. The floral effects were the result of the efforts of Miss Payne, Mrs. M. Macdonald, and Mrs. Townley, who were also in charge of afternoon tea. Mr. A. J. Curtis, who was in the chair, explained the intentions of the gathering. He voiced the welcome of the parishioners to Mr. Davies and Mr.. Blair, and spoke in high praise of the good work done by Mr. McKenzie since the departure of Canon James. He added a tribute to the substantial help given to Mr. McKenzie by his mother, and bade them farewell and god-speed in their new avenue of work. Two of the vestrymen added tributes and welcomes on the same- lines. Mrs. Townley presented Mrs. McKenzie with a shoulder spray of flowers, and spoke for the women of the parish in praise of all she . had done. The Bishop of Wellington, the f Rt. Rev. H. St. Barbe Holland, expressed his pleasure at seeing such a very large attendance of parishioners, and mentioned specially that he was glad to see so many men present, as it was difficult for them to get away so early in the afternoon. He also spoke in high praise of the transformation of the hall, declaring that it had been mdde “to -blossom like the rose,” and was in great contrast to its usually unpromising interior. He was sure there Was a real welcome in the hearts of all present, and in-, those of many who were unable to be present. He spoke briefly of the fact that not only does the clergyman minister to the wants of the people, but the organist bears an important share in the way of creating an atmosphere of worship and happiness. The bishop spoke in praise of the work of Mr. Davies at Kllbirnie, and said that after this (Thursday) evening he would be known as Canon Davies. He wished that as they had a Welsh vicar and a Scottish organist they might in time have an Irish .curate. Bishop Holland then made the presentation of a cheque-to the Rev. Mr. McKenzie, and a useful _ gift to his mother from the parishioners. Mr. McKenzie made a brief speech of thanks and appreciation. Afternoon tea was served, and the remainder of the afternoon was spent in making acquaintance with the newcomers and bidding farewell personally to those who were leaving the. parish.