CHURCH OF CHRIST.

Evening Post, Volume LXXIX, Issue 117, 19 May 1910, Page 9

CHURCH OF CHRIST.

WELCOJIE TO THE NEW PASTOR. J Sir. S. J. Mathieson, who is to work in connection with the Church of Christ, Vivian-street, was welcomed at a tea and public meeting held at the church last evening. Mr. R. A. Wright, M.P., presided. There was a very large attendance, the church being quite full. Mr. Mathieson was first welcomed by the chairman, who incidentally urged the congregation to bring people to church, and once they had come they would want to come again. Mr. Kruse, on behalf of the church, welcomed Mr. Mathieson back to New Zealand. Mr. Hunter, on behalf of the church officers, assured Mr. Mathieson of their sympathy and co-operation. Mr. Wilson, as president of the middle district conference of the church, and representing 900 members, extended a hearty welcome to Mr. Mathieson. He had come back, said Mr. Wilson, because he had determined to live for the saving of lost souls and because he loved his country, New Zealand. Mi 1 . Day spoke on behalf of the young men of the church. In responding, Mr. 'Mathieson said the members of the church might recognise his limitations, and he might lecognise theirs. But he urged that they should endeavour to see the best in one another. The Church of Christ in Vivian-street possessed many loyal members of the Chiuvh of Jesus. * The splendid building alone was an evidence of their devotion and their self-sacrifice. He pleaded for an active cirurcri — everyone busy, everyone at work, and but few engaged in criticism. The critical church was never a soul-saving church. Grumblers . in hia experience, were very seldom workers, and workers were never grumblers. Mr. Mathieson made a strong point of active church work among young people, holding it to be better — while "lot decrying work among adults — to save the young. Enthusiasm would turn the church from a hospital for siok Christians into a dynamo to God's glory. A vital church was wanted, and he showed how much loyalty played in the life of a church as a whole and in individual members. A selection of music and hymns was rendered during the evening by the choir, under the direction of Mr. Bewloy. Miss Gray was organist. It is understood that in oonsequencs of the resignation of Mr. Scott Symington from 6he position of electrical engineer, the Chriatchurch Tramway Board intends to make some changes in connection with the syblem of administration. According to the Press the board is. to consider whether it will appoint a managing superintendent, who will 'havo .supreme control in all depaitmenN ot the work of the tiamway 1 -.