FAREWELL SOCIAL TO REV. R. N. GUTRY.

Hutt News, Volume 3, Issue 15, 4 September 1930, Page 6

FAREWELL SOCIAL TO REV. R. N. GUTRY.

A farewell social was tendened to t>he Bey. B. N. Gutry, on Saturday night, in the Waiwetu Methodist Church, on.the eve of his departure for "America, where he intends further pursuing his theological studies. There was a good attendance of members, and friends of 'both .Waiwetu- and Taita churches. Well-known 'Alexander hymns were sung, also choruses. Mr. A. E. Thomas was at the piano., Two vocal items were contributed by Mr". Maud during the r evening. .. Short speeches by representatives of the different churches w>ere given, Mr. Johnston senr representing the Hutt Church, Mr. Maud the W^iwetu Church, and Mr. Mullins the Taita Church. The Bey. H. Sharp spoke most appreciatively of Mr. Gutry« He said he had found him an earnest stttdent and a conscientious worker and had heard he was a good preacher. He further said that while at college Mr. Gutry had distinguished himself and was looked upon as a young man of promise. In view of all this, Mr. Sharp said that it was with feelings of regret that he, and those present, parted' with Mr. Gutty^ but the speaker said t&at they all wished the guest of the evening success and happiness in his new sphere. ' Mr. Sharp then presented Mr. Gutry with a travelling rug from his friends at Waiwetu andTaita. Mr. Gutry very feelingly replied, and said how appreciative he was of the warm send-off that had been tendered to him and said that his, aim and object would always be to liberate the' spirit of Cbrist in the souls of men, and he believed that his action, in going, to America was the first step in this particular field of service. He also wished the

churches greater fellowship* and progress in the future.

Supper was then served by the ladies and'the Benediction brought the 'evening to a close.