NELSON NEWS

Evening Post, Volume CVII, Issue 147, 23 June 1924, Page 3

NELSON NEWS

A PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH

ANNIVERSARY

(PROS! OUR OWN CORRESPONDENT.)

NELSON, 21st June. The 76th anniversary of Trinity Presbyterian Trinity (Jhurch was celebrated by a social gathering, held in the schoolroom on Wednesday evening, when there was a very larf c attendance of church members and tut general public. The pastor, Rev. J. M'Neill, presided. He extended a warm welcome to one and all. Among the speakers were the Mayor of Nelson (Mr. WY Lock), Mr. H. Atmore, M.l\, the Rev. Pring Rowe (Anglican), Mr. Carpenter (Church of Ghnst), and Mr. T. Vercoe (Congregational). Apologies for absence were received from Bishop Mules, Dr. Sadlier (Bishop of Nelson), Dean Askow, the Rev. M. L. Blamii-es, and the Rev. J. Laird.

In his opening remarks the chairman gave a brief outline of the history of the church from its inception, on tht 18th of June, 1848. On that day the first minister, the Rev. J. D. Nicholson, arrived, and preached his first sermon. On reaching Nelson he found that the first school had been already established by Mr. M. Campbell, a Presbyterian. Mr. Nicholson was, after nine years, succeeded by the R«v. Patrick Galder, who came direct from the Free Church of Scotland ■to Nelson. Mr. Calder's ministry extended over a period of 24 years, and when the General Assembly of the Presbyterian Church met in Nelson1 for the first time it honoured Mr. Calder by calling him to the Moderator's chair. The Rev. J. H. Mackenzie succeeded Mr. CaJder, and for 25 years did a noble work in consolidating the Presbyterian cause in this city. He took an active part in the life of the community, interesting himself particularly in the religious instruction of boys and gh'ls in the day schools. Mr. Mackenzie was also honoured in being called to the moderatorship of the general assembly. The ministry of the Rev. George Gibb, while not as long as that of any of his predecessors, was fruitful and helpful. Since its inception it had been the aim of Trinity Church and. all its ministers to work in harmony with the other reformed church, and to co-operate with all in any effort for the uplifting of man and the extension of the Kingdom of God. While maintaining her own distinctive testimony, and defending it when necessary, Trinity' Church would ever seek to co-operate with the sister churches in every-way. (Applause. ) During the evening a fine musical programme was given, those contributing being Miss Jacobs and Mr. Hugeins (duet), Mr. E. Short Csongs), Miss Snoman (recitation), and Mrs. Russell, and Mr. J. P. Smith (accompanists). ■ A liberal supply of refreshments was provided, and the anniversary was in every way one of the most successful ever held in connection with the Church.

Mr. R. Irwin, headmaster of the H'ampden street school, has been appointed headmaster of Queen's Park School, Wanganui. This school is regarded as one of the most up-to-date in the Dominion. Mr. Irwin has taken a great interest in his scholars during his stay in Nelson, and is held in the highest estimation by the citizens, who., while congratulating him oh his. well-earned success, will greatly regret his departure from Nelson.

A new company of Girl Guides, or "Brownies,"' is being formed at Hampden street. The section will comprise girls residing in or about Hampden and Waimea streets and Victory square area. The little girls, under the age of 11, can join the branch known as the "Brownies.'' Girls over 11— between 11 and 16 or 18—join the ordinary Girl Guides. Each one joins a company of about 16 to 30 or 40 girls, under the direction of a guide captain. Mrs. C. Milder will be in charge of the Guides of this section, and Mrs. Cyril Bout of the "Brownies."

Mr. 0. D. Beatson, of Eichmond, is now marketing.a crop of green peas grown on the hills at Richmond. The peas, which are a fine sample, were planted during the last week in April, and they have matured in a manner that could not be excelled in the ordinary season. The peas have realised 5s a peck in Wellington, a return equal to about £100 per acre.

A plain and fancy dress ball, -under the auspices of tho Riwaka Committee of the plunket Society, was held in the Oddfellows' Hall, at Kiwaka, on Tuesday evening. Although the night was wet and stormy, there was a large attendance of dancers, who thoroushlv en-' joyed themselves. Prizes were given as follow : —Most original dress, Miss N. Duncan (if winter conies can spring be far behind ?); most original men's, Mr. L.. Rankin (cigar), prettiest lady's costume, Mis 3P. Kelling (powder puff), commendtd, Miss N. Scott (Halloween) and Miss Street (Folly). Mr. B. Hickmott officiated as M.C. Excellent music was supplied by Mr. Harold Williams. A firstclass supper was provided by the Ruvaka Plunket Committee. The proceeds of the ball will benefit the funds of the Plunket Society. ■ The weatlier this week has been very broken, being very wet on Tuesday and on Wednesday evening, but during that period the temperature was very mild. Now the weather has Eettled, the air is much keener.

A special meeting of the 'Waimea County Council was held on. Thursday morning, when it was decided to call for applications for the position of engineer, caused by the resignation of Mr. Men/.ies. who has accepted another appointment in tho North Island. Mr. J. Brou;j;h was appointed temporary overseer in succession to the late Mr. Stebbings.

A country band contest is being promoted by a committee set up by the Regimental Band. It has been decided to hold the contest in September. Neither of the city bands will compete, as this is solely for C grade bands of tho district. A competent judge will be appointed from outside the district to judge the music in the quickstep and selection, both being "our choice" pieces. Entries have already been received from four bands.

Mr. W. Ancell. who has been on an extended_ holiday, has returned to Nelson greatly improved in. health.