ST. ANDREW’S, HASTINGS.

Hawke's Bay Tribune, Volume XVII, Issue 203, 11 August 1927, Page 4

ST. ANDREW’S, HASTINGS.

ANNUAL CONGREGATIONAL GATHERING. The annual congregational gathering and social was held in the School Hall last evening, a splendid representative audience being presided over by the Moderator, the Rev. D. J. A. Shaw.

in his words ol welcome the minister expressed pleasure at the spirit of harmony and goodwill manifested in the church’s activities as shown in the reports submitted and circulated among the congregation. The session report recorded steady progress. The additions to church membership was 69, and the church roll was now 360. The pulpit ministrations had been a stimulus and help to the large and increasing congregation from Sabbath to Sabbath. Visits to the families of the congregation, the attention given to the infirm and aged had taxed the minister’s strength, which had been ungrudgingly, and the office-bearers advised the congregation that some assistance should be provided. The managers’ report stated that the Church Manse buildings were in good repair but the question of a Sunday School and Hall was an urgent necessity. The heating of the Church had proved satisfactory, and was much appreciated. The financial report, presented by the treasurer, gave evidence of hearty response. The freewill offerings and response to the special appeal had been very generous and the sum of nearly £1,600 had passed through the treasurer’s hands. Reports from the Bible Classes, Mam Sunday Schools at Mahora and Twyford were presented, evidencing steady progress and good work. The Ladies’ Guild, Parents’ League, Missionary Guild, and Winter Club gave testimony to the interest displayed by all in forwarding the minister’s efforts, and the organist, and choir were thanked for their consistent and effective services.

The ladies of the congregation provided refreshments which were appreciated.