CATHOLIC YOUTH MOVEMENT

Grey River Argus, 31 March 1943, Page 2

CATHOLIC YOUTH MOVEMENT

FAREWELL REV. FATHER KELLY A very enjoyable evening was that spent at Herb Moore's Cabaret on Monday evening last, when the Catholic Youth Movement of Greymouth met to farewell the Rev. Father F. E. Kelly, who has been their Spiritual Director and adviser since the inception of the Movement eighteen months ago. There was a very large attendance of young people—a fitting tribute of affection and respect to their Director for his interest in their welfare. Re v - Brother Chanel, the founder of the Catholic Youth Movement, presided and associated with him were Rev. Fathers A. C. Gregory, J. Finerty (Hokitika) and V. Flaherty, who is replacing Rev. Father Kelly at Greymouth. ‘Brother Chanel in his opening remarks, apologised for the absence of the Very Rev. Father Long, who was unable to be present and who sent his best wishes for the success of the gathering. Bro. Chanel said he also wished, on behalf of the assemblage to thank Mr and Mrs Herb Moore for the use of their social room, an act which they much appreciated. In speaking of Father Kelly he said the sentiments he exi pressed were those of all and they deeply appreciated all Father Kelly had done for them. He would be greatly missed and their best wishes would go with him for continued success in his new sphere of work in Rangiora. Rev. Brother Chanel said he was very pleased to see with them Rev. Father Finerty of Hokitika and he assured him of a hearty welcome. Rev. Fr. Gregory, on behalf of Rev. Father Long and himself expressed pleasure at being present at the han-'/ gathering and having an opportunity of paying a tribute to Father Kelly. He had known their guest for a very long time and wished to express his personal regrets at his departure from Greymouth. He extended all good wishes to him in his work at Rangiora. Father Gregory spoke of the 'wonderful work the Catholic Youth Movement was doing in Greymouth, and said that if they took notice of all Father Kelly and Brother Chanel had done for them they would attain greater success than that already achieved. Rev. Father Finerty thanked all for the kind invitation to be present and expressed his regret at not being present at the farewell function on Sunday evening. He was igreatly impressed with the fine gathering of young people present that evening and for the splendid work they were doing in the Catholic Youth Movement. The war had taken away manv of their members and he hoped they would soon return to rejoin the ranks. He joined, them all in his sentiments of gratitude for the work Father Kelly had done and he was sure the success of his work here would crown his work at Rangiora. , , A warm welcome was accorded Rev. Father Flaherty when he rose to speak. He too wished to express hi.s best wishes to Father Kelly in his future work. He felt that a difficult task had been set him in taking up the work of Father Kelly, but he knew that with their prayers and co-operation he would feel very happy in this new work. He was very pleased to come to Greymouth and thanked all for the hearty welcome. • , „ ' On behalf of St. Columba Club, Mr J. Keating. Junr., thanked: Father Kelly for his interest in the Club. He was sorry to see him leaving Greymouth and wished him success for the future. Mr . J. Gallagher, who has been an ardent supporter of the Catholic Youth Movement since its inception, also spoke his feelings of regret at Father Kelly’s departure. The Movement had found a strong supporter in him and would miss him greatly. He had done his duty not only as a priest, but also as a citizen. He was sorry to see him leave and wished him future success. Rev. Brother Chanel on behalf of the Catholic Youth Movement asked Father Kelly’s acceptance of an electric heater, stating that the gift would serve as a,' memento of the happy days he spent with them and with it went the gratitude of all for what he had done for them since the Movement was started eighteen months ago. Brother Chanel assured Father Kelly they would carry on the work and live up to the high ideals he had set them. Miss P.

O’Callaghan then made the presentation amid applause. Father Kelly, on rising to reply, was given an ovation. He stated that he deeply regretted leaving Greymouth and the Catholic .Youth Movement, which was now in full swing. He had been very happy in his association with the Movement and knew what it meant for the parish of Greymouth. He spoke of the wonderful work of Brother Chanel in founding the Movement,, for without him its organisation would not have been possible. He was very happy to be associated with Brother Chanel in the work, and would miss his kindly help. He thanked them for their fine gift and concluded by extending to all -best wishes for the future.' A very enjoyable dance programme was held, Miss Mary Cawley’s orchestra supplying the music and Miss R. Ward playing extras, Mr F. Grogan being in charge of the floor. During the evening, items were contributed by Misses E; Cawley and D. Willis. A dainty supper was served by the ladies. Father Kelly was also the recipient of a parting; gift from St. Patrick’s Altar Society.