Independent Order of Rechabites.

Gisborne Times, Volume V, Issue 27, 1 February 1901, Page 2

Independent Order of Rechabites.

A meeting of the Gisborne Tent. No 54, 1.0. R., S. U., was held in the Tent room on Wednesday evening, Bro. M. Nasmith, C.R., presiding. A large amount of routine business was transacted. One new m&nber was initiated, one elected, and several proposed.

- In conjunction with the other lodges, the Rechabites are moving forward in tho matter of increasing membership, new members being constantly initiated, while the funds are also stoadily growing, From a Ifrte return this fact is noted among all Rechabitc Tents. In 1897, tho total membership of tho Order was 235,000, with accumulated funds of .£BOO,OOO, while last year saw the Order with 286,000 members and £1,200,000 of funds —a phenomenal increase for three years. The annual income of the Society is £300,000, and .being established on August 25th, 1835, it can lay claim to being the oldest, if not the largest and wealthiest tcmperanco friendly Society in the world, The. N.Z. Central District, in which the ’ local Tent is inclucjeq, has funds totalling £24,992, with a membership of 1188 adults, 400 juveniles, and 59 honorary. The benefits of the Society are very liberal. In sickness 20s a week is given for tho first 12 months, 10s for the next 6 months, and 5s -as long as sickness continues; the funeral allowance is £3O, female members receiving half that amount; any abstainer may be. come a member if over 16 and under 43 years of age. After a meeting of the Tent on Wednesday evening, a meeting of the District Council Reception Committee was held. Arrangements for the entertaining of the delegates were fully discussed, and, judging by the programme drawn up, it is evident that the local Tent appreciates the importance of the visit, and intends to treat the visitors right royally. The soiree and public meeting, to be held on Friday, February 15ch, is sure to be a great sue* cess, and tickets for it are selling rapidly. Has Worship the Mayor has consented to preside, and the speakers at the meeting will include several of the prominent officers of the District Council, while a samaoas of vocal and instrumental Ellewosu} am to be given.