OPEN COLUMN.

Hawke's Bay Herald, 10 November 1857, Page 2

OPEN COLUMN.

To the Editor of the Haicke's Bay Herald. Sir, — In your Supplement of the 24th ult. (only this evening to hand), I note what you say concerning "an effort which is being made to establish a Wesley an Chapel in Napier, &c." Allow me to add, that, if such is, or should prove to be, the general wish of the inhabitants of Napier and its vicinity, I too shall be right glad in the same being both heartily and speedily carried out. But, if, as I hope, something less denominational, and (consequently) more Christian, would both suit their wants and be quickly effected ; I, for one, would willingly aid it. I would, therefore, propose to my fellow settlers residing at Napier and, indeed, generally throughout the District, (who might, it is to be hoped, all be benefitted thereby,) the speedy erection of a suitable Building for Divine Worship, upon the following simple and Catholic plan : — Ist., That it be wholly un- sectarian, and therefore free for any Christian Minister: — 2nd., That it be equally free to be used as a Lecture-Room for Useful Knowledge on . Week-days, or Week-day Evenings : — 3rd., That Admission.be free:— - and, 4th., That the whole be under the su-per-vision of a Committee of — persons ; to be chosen by ballot from among the Subscribers and regular Congregation every six months.

In furtherance of which I would be happy to give a building site at Napier, and also a subscription of £50, pledging myself to collect a second £50, should the expenses not exceed £250; and, should the Building Expenses amount to £400, I would then give both the site and £100 towards it. I would also offer my own Personal Services, gratuitously , during the first year; i. c. to preach (d. v.) twice on the Sunday, and (if desired,) once a week on some weekday evening ; or, assist any other Minister whom they might select : — and also, take upon me to give a Scientific Lecture once a month throughout the same year. As the Clergyman Episcopally ordained to, and, therefore, (speaking Ecclesiastically,) as the Clergyman of the Ahuriri, (although I regret to say, now for 5 years suspended from duty, during which long time, however, I have continued to hope I should yet be saved any approach towards {"Irregularity") I cannot but deem it my duty (however painful,) — under existing circumstances — thus to address, through your ready aid, my fellow-Christians and fellow-Settlers of Napier and the District. I am, Sir, Very faithfully yours, "William Colenso. TVaitangi, Napier, Nov. 2, 1857.