THE CHURCHES AND THE MASSES.

Manawatu Herald, Volume XLVIII, Issue 3551, 16 October 1926, Page 3

THE CHURCHES AND THE MASSES.

“It is true to .say the gap between the churches and the masses is as wide as ever it has been,” said the Rev. Joseph W. Kemp, minister in charge of the Auckland Baptist Tabernacle, who returned by the Niagara .on Monday, after a seven months’ holiday visit to Great Britain and America. “There is one pleasing feature about England and America in this respect, and that is the large number of young people being drawn to the churches. In Vancouver, for instance, I preached before an audience of young people from 16 to 25. Although only short notice was given over 1,000 were present.” During his tour he preached over 100 times. He found the people in England more religious than the people of America (states the “New Zealand Herald”). There were very few preachers in America who could draw and hold the people. England was also suffering from-a dearth of good preachers, but more people went to the churches. Many services were broadcasted both in England and America. This was a good thing in many ways. The New York Federated Churches broadcasted a family service from 7.45 to, 8 every morning, and this had a good effect. One large church in Chicago, however, had stopped) its services being broadcasted. It .was found that jazz music arid light entertainment was sent over the wireless after the services. thus taking away any good effect the latter might have.