BISHOP BRODIE

Greymouth Evening Star, 17 June 1930, Page 3

BISHOP BRODIE

GREYMOUTH’S CORDIAL TRIBUTE The popularity of Bishop Brodie, and the affection in which he is held by his Greymouth parishioners, were much in evidence last evening, at the social tendered to him, at St. Columba Hall, by the clergy and congregation of St. Patrick’s Church. There was a large attendance, over which Mr A. M. Carroll presided. Among those present were Father Long, all the clergy of St. Patrick’s, Marist Brothers, Dr. Fogarty, and Mr. P. J. O’Regan (Wellington).

An apology 'was received from Mr J. W. Hannan.

After a capably-performed introductory pianoforte solo by Miss Leslie Marshall, songs were given by Mr. M. Richards, Mrs Hickman, Rev. Father P. O’Meeghan (Ahaura), Master C. Casey and a monologue by Miss M. Phillips. Miss Lena Higgins and Mrs Kane were accompanists. Mr. A. M. Carroll extended a cordial welcome to the Bishop. . Mrs J. O’Brien, on behalf of the ladies’ parish organisations, also welcomed His Lordship on their behalf, stating that they were always pleased ’’to see him in Greymouth, and appreciated his interest in the sodalities. Mr. J. O’Brien, M.P., said that he was pleased to be present and to join in the welcome to Dr. Brodie. Mr. R. tllarke, on behalf of the Hibernian Society, and Mr. Carroll, on behalf of St. Columba Club, tendered the good wishes and respect of those organisations, stating that the Bishop was always a welcome figure in Greymouth. They could assure him of the loyalty of the men of the parish. Mr.’ Geo. Miller, representing the Runanga section of the parish, said the State mine parishioners were second to none in their admiration for the Bishop, whose broadmindedness all recognised, and they appreciated his sympathy at the time of the earthquake a year ago. Bishop Brodie, who was received ■with applause and musical honours, said his interest in the West Coast was intensified by the fact that his parents had here been married. He paid a fine tribute to the priests of Greymouth, and said the state of the parish showed the old pioneer spirit of faith still survived in a robust form. As to the anniversary of the earthquake, it reminded him that in . his own concern to get here at the time, he lost his railway ticket, a thing he had never done before or since. He thanked all the speakers as well as the large gathering for the very fine reception tendered him. He promised to return and preside on the occasion of the Convent Old Girls Ball and presentation of debutantes at the Town Hall. He 'was pleased to see the proceeds were to go in defraying the cost of earthquake repair work. He was pleased to acknowledge the kind remarks of Messrs. O’Brien and Miller. He . referred to the expansion of the parish and progress of the district. Visiting their own schools he noted that they had now 800 pupils, compared with GBl in the time of Dean Carew, whose great work lived after him. It Mtas no wonder the “Tablet” referred to Greymouth as an outstanding parish. In no centre had they finer tutors than the Sisters and Marist Brothers here. He noted that the parish earthquake damage totalled well over £2OOO, and was glad to assist in encouraging the ■work of completing repairs. In his own period as Bishop, no less than £300,000 had passed through his hands by way of school funds. He concluded with a tribute to the generosity and spirit of faith in the parishioners of Greymouth. Mr. Malone moved a vote of thanks to the ladies who had provided generous refreshments for the evening. This was carried with acclamation. Bishop Brodie left on his return to Christchurch, by this morning’s express.