DEATH OF BISHOP GRIMES.

Lyttelton Times, Volume CXVI, Issue 16806, 16 March 1915, Page 6

DEATH OF BISHOP GRIMES.

The Roman Catholic community of Christchurch in particular and of New Zealand in general will have the sympathy of all classes of people in the bereavement they are suffering. The death of Bishop Grimes was not an unexpected blow, it is true, for the distinguished prelate had been ill for a considerable time, and when he left Christchurch a few days ago to enter a Sydney hospital the gravest apprehensions were felt. It is well over a quarter of a century since Bishop Grimes came to Christchurch as the head of his Church in Canterbury. That is a long enough period to test any man, for it covers the best years of his activities. But not much time could be needed to discover in Bishop Grimes a faithful father to his own flock, a. citizen of most estimable qualities, a gentleman and scholar whom to know was a pride and pleasure. The growth and progress of the Roman Catholic Church and institutions in our midst afford eloquent testimony to the deceased's earnestness and zeal. The magnificent cathedral in Barbadoes street iaa monument to his enthusiasm no less than to his generosity. Bishop Grimes was a man of great tolerance and wide sympathies, whose work was not confined- to his church and congregation. He was ever ready, to take a full share in movements for the social and moral uplift of the whole community, and he gave long and devoted service as a member of several local institution*. The numerous merciful societies belonging to the Roman Catholic Church found in the departed prelate their principal inspiration, their unfailing guide, philosopher and friend. His life was one of uninterrupted labour for religion and humanity. Bishop Grimes died full of years and full of honours, and the greatest of honours hp could have wished was Ids—tho esteem and affection of the whole" community. It will, wo hope "and believe, afford the Roman Catholics some consolation to know that their sorrow is shared by men and women of all denominations.