ST. PAUL'S CHURCH

Grey River Argus, 24 April 1913, Page 5

ST. PAUL'S CHURCH

WELCOME TO NEW PASTOR The congregation of St. Paul's Meth odist Church gave a welcome to their new pastor, the Rev. Mr. Ash croft, in the Sunday school room last night. The building- had been nicely decorated for the occasion, and was.crowded in all parts. It is estimated that nearly three hundred were present. The choir opened the rjroceedings by singing the Hundredth Psalm, after which Mr. -Nightingale, senior stcwan. who acted as chairman, expressed his ple'asurc at seeing such a large attendance and so many representatives ,from other churches present. V A violin duet "La Screnata" was very tastefully rendered •by Messrs] Apted and Pepper. The Rev. Mr. Ayreton said that it must be gratifying to all to see such a large a tendance to give Mr. Ashcroft a real Warm-hearted West Coast welcome.. He trusted that the welcome would always last. What they required was combination. A minister could do many things but unless his people combined with him his efforts would be rendered futile. . Song, "Evening Bells," Miss McIntosh. Mr. 'Nightingale then introduced the Rev. Dr. Black, who welcomed the new pastor on behalf of the Presbyterian Church. Song, "Awake" Miss Taylor (encored). Reading: Mrs Fcn'and. Song, "I thank three, Life" Mrs. Young. Ensign Hughson then extended a hearty welcome to Mr. Ashcroft on behalf of the Salvation Army. Song. "Nancy Lee" (violin* obligato Mr- Apted) Mr. Baty. Mr. Gray then welcomed the pastor on behalf 'of • the Social and Literary Guild, and spoke of the jjreat assistance the Guild had been in Church work. Piano duet, "Germany" Misses Hopkins and Lawn. •- ■ The Rev. Mr. Ashcroft, on rising to reply received a very warm greeting. He thanked the people for the magnificent reception accorded to himself and family. The warm words of greeting had touched him to the heart. They could depend on his doing his best and he trusted that the people would do the same. Mr. Ashcroft referred in terii.s ot the warmest appreciation to the good work done by the Rev>T. N. Griffin and he paid a tribute to the good singing of the choix. : Thirteen years ago he had preached in Greymouth as the vessel he was to trave lin was bar-bound and had pleasant recollections of the people. He hoped to stay longer this time and they could rely that he would do his best. Refreshments were then handed handed 'round and a pleasant time was spent in social intercourse. * Miss C. Hopkins acted as accompanist in her usual -finished manner.