CENTRAL OTAGO ANGLICANS

Evening Star, Issue 20421, 28 February 1930, Page 6

CENTRAL OTAGO ANGLICANS

MEETING OF ARGHIDIACONAL BOARD The second meeting of the Archidiacoual Board was held at Naseby from February 18 to 20. The following were present:— Veu. Archdeacon Whitehead, the Revs A. W. Stace (Lawrence), W. L. Powell (Queenstown), C. Foreman (Maniototo), A. B. Pywell (Dunstan), Forde (Balclutha), Messrs A. Thorley and H. J. P. Davis, lay representatives for Dunstan and Maniototo respectively. The Rev. E. G. Wilson, of Roxburgh, forwarded an apology for absence. Proceedings began with Holy Coinmunion on Tuesday _ morning, at which the archdeacon officiated. From 10.30 to 12.30 a quiet morning was conducted by the vicar -of Dunstan, who gave three addresses upon the priesthood; its responsibilities, and joys. During these there was a reconsideration of the various aspects connected with the sacred ministry in its relationship to the great liead of the church and the people to whom the clergy are called to minister. The conductor reminded his hearers they were men “ under authority,” specially trained and chosenfor a particular calling in the world. The task was not an easy one, and unless they exercised great care they might easily imagine securing the best results through doubtful means. A priest’s \york could not be judged by the common standards of success. As regards the joys, they had experienced them from many unexpected quarter!, and in doing their clear duty earned the gratitude of God’s people. He gave a short outline of the life of the Master as the highest, and beat example of faithful and true work according to the mind and will of Almighty God.

The first session of the conference began at '2 p.m. Archdeacon Whitehead, who presided, introduced the subject chosen for discussion—viz., “The South India Reunion Scheme.” A number of persons attended, including Revs. Baird and Young, of Waipiata and Ranfurly. The speaker outlined the more important details of the scheme, and read a number of opinions for and against, which gave a clear indication of the main points. It was pointed out that tremendous difficulties were in the way, and no one could estimate the ' likely attitude of the Lambeth Conference -when the proposals were deliberated upon as expected this year. In the subsequent discussion methods of approach toward greater unity were considered, and the general opinion seemed unanimous that the sphere of social service offered a splendid opportunity with avenues yet unexplored. That great strides toward reunion “ all round” had already been made showed that the desired event had some future prospects. When asked by a speaker why the Lambeth fathers had not given a stronger lead to the free churches, the chairman pointed out steps had been taken, and the Encyclical of ten years ago was an earnest of the church’s will to effect unity. The discussion terminated with a hearty vote of thanks to the leader for his helpful summary of the situation. I Choral evensong was sung at 7-30, during which some of the visitors took part. An interesting sermon was given by the archdeacon on the trend of affairs as they affected spiritual activities, particularly those of the Church of England.' As was pointed out, the principles of order and particular contribution were naturally affected by the national temperament which influenced the apprehension of revelation and church government. The present time was full of difficulties, the future may reveal others equally if not more serious, but if laity and clergy would intensify the contribution, and if the foundations of Scripture and inspired tradition were maintained, the church’s usefulness and witness would remain unimpaired. The times demanded a study of the foundation of church polity, and strong.co-operation between the people and their spiritual leaders would equip both for the struggle in maintaining a witness for the enduring things of life. Much could bo accomplished by unity and fellowship even in the direction of finding a solution of the increasing problems which harass and trouble the world.

Wednesday’s programme began by Holy Communion at 8 a.m., followed by a second conference called for the consideration of relating to general work. It was decided to accept the invitation of the .vicar 'of Queenstown to meet there next September, and details for that occasion were arranged. The notification of the retreat in May was received with gratification, and by motion the idea was commended to the clergy, directing them to interest parishioners' in this movement for the deepening of the spiritual life. Though intended for the clergy, the people can help by their prayers. The secretary was instructed to secure fuller information on the possibility’ of holding a series of healing missions' in the archdeaconry next year. The subject of lay representation came up for discussion in consequence of the remarks by Mr A Thorley, who expressed his conviction that the board was doing a remarkably fine work through these gatherings—a work which would gain greater impetus by larger attendances by laymen from the various districts A motion was passed asking the parishes at the annual meeting in April next to appoint representatives to the board. Special votes of thanks were accorded the chairman, Ven. Archdeacon Whitehead; Rev, A. B. Pywell. for the quiet morning; Rev. C., Mrs, and Miss Foreman, for the excellent arrangements made and the cordial hospitality extended the visitors. _ After evensong a parish social took place in St. George’s Hall. There were present, beside visitors, parishioners of Naseby, Waipiata, and tOturehua. Songs, speeches, and a splendid supper made up a very pleasant evening. The concluding service of the conference period was a farewell eucharist on Thursday at 8 a.m., bringing to a fitting conclusion a series of; inspiring gatherings full of good fellowship and provocative of much thought.;