NORTH BELT CHURCH.

Lyttelton Times, Volume LXXI, Issue 8819, 14 June 1889, Page 2

NORTH BELT CHURCH .

The annual congregational meeting of the above church was held on Wednesday in the church. Tea, provided by the ladies of the congregation in the schoolroom, was on the table at half-past six o’clock, and after justice was done to the good things provided by the generous ladies, an adjournment was made to the church. The proceedings were opened by singing the 100th Psalm, after which the Chairman (the Rev R, Erwin) engaged in prayer. The Chairman delivered a short address, and in the course of his remarks took occasion to thank the congregation for the support and sympathy he has had from them during the period of hia ministry, more particularly during thelastyear; and eulogised iu the highest terms the generous sympathy extended by tbe ladies of the congregation, not only in helping the distressed of their own church, but also in going further to assist anyone who was really in need. After touching on the different organisations connected with the church, the Chairman concluded his address with the hope that the coming year would bo equally prosperous with the past. The Session Clerk, Mr J. M. W att, then read the Kirk Session report for the year ending April, 1889. This report was very satisfactory indeed. The report was adopted. The choir, under the leadership of Mr H. M, Johnson, here sang “Hosannah! we Sing,” by Dykes, in very creditable style, after which

Mr Hugh Wilson read the financial report, which was very encouraging. The balance-sheet showed a credit balance of some J2B or JJIO.

The report was seconded by Mr Davis, and adopted. Atthie stage, "He ShallFced His Flock,” from the “ Messiah,” was exceedingly well rendered by Mrs Mitchell and Master R. Herriott.

The Sabbath School, Band of Hope, Literary and Dorcas Societies reports were all read and adopted, each report speaking favourably of the increased iu merest and progress in every branch, more especially the Sabbath School, chiefly through the efforts of the energetic Superintendent, Mr A. Kaye. The Sabbath School is now larger than ever it has been since its formation. Mr Buchanan sang a sacred song, entitled “ Tbe Master Stood in His Garden.”

After a few remarks from Dr Stewart, the choir sang “ Lead, Kindly Light.” The singing of the Doxology brought a very successful and enjoyable evening to a close.