ALL SAINTS’ CHURCH.

Manawatu Herald, Volume LVIII, Issue 4897, 9 February 1938, Page 2

ALL SAINTS’ CHURCH.

MRS. W. M. THOMAS FARE-

WELLED,

Members of; All Saints’ Ladies’ Guild and Choir gathered in the Anglican schoolroom on Monday evening to bid au revoir to Mrs W. M. Thomas, a valued 'church worker, whose departure from Foxton to Motueka takes place at an early date. Dancing and cards, interspersed with games and items pleasantly whiled away the hours, one and all spending a very jolly evening. Much appreciated items were: Vocal solos: “Sincerity” and “Alice Blue Gown,” by Mrs W. M. Thomas; “Rainbow on the River,” by Master W. Hamer, and an exhibition of tap dancing by Mr E. Shortt. The accompaniments were played by Mesdames Thomas and W. Bowden and Mr H. A. Hannay. A delicious supper was served, after which Rev. E. W. Burgin called on Mrs C. H. Symons (president) to speak on behalf of the Ladies’ Guild.

(Mrs ‘Symons expressed the regret felt by members at Mrs Thomas’ departure from Foxton. She had always .been ready to assist when called upon, and her vocal contributions at the social afternoons of the Guild were always greatly appreciated. Mrs Symons concluded by wishing Mrs Thomas Godspeed and every happiness in her new sphere. Mr H. A. Hannay (choirmaster), on behalf of the choir, said that Mrs Thomas had played a princi-. pal part in choir work, and it would be difficult to adequately fill her position. In addition to' assisting with the vocal activities Mrs Thomas had rendered valuable service at the organ, and it was with sincere regret that choir members had learnt of her departure. Mr Hannay also expressed thanks to Mr W. M. Thomas, who although not a member of All Saints’ Church, had always been ready to render assistance in any way. In conclusion,. Mr Hannay expressed to Mrs Thomas the good wishes of the Choir for her future success

and happiness. Mr Hannay also took the opportunity of apologising for the absence of Mis H. A. Hannay anil Mrs. C. Edwards, and an apology was also received from Mrs E. W. Burgin., Other apologies were received from Mesdames F. Raikes, M. B. Bergin, John Robinson, D. Christie, James Robinson, R. Owen, F. Procter, and W. E. Barber. Rev. E. W. Burgin, speaking on behalf of the Church and the Vestry, endorsed the'remarks of the previous speakers, and referred to Mrs Thomas’ services both as a vocalist and at the organ. Her place in the ranks of the choir would be hard to fill, and the members of the Church were extremely sorry to lose such a valued worker. After extending the good wishes of the members of the Church and Vestry to Mrs Thomas, Rev. Burgin called on her to accept a presentation as a token of appreciation and of the esteem in which she was held by her fellow members of the Guild and Choir, and Vestry members. Musical honours were then enthusiastically accorded the guest of the evening; Mrs Thomas, after apologising for the unavoidable absence of Mr Thomas', suitably responded, thanking the speakers for their kind words and those present for their lovely gift. Mrs Thomas_exprcssed her regret at severing her connection with the Church, having always found it a pleasure to help in any way. Mr Hannay, as choirmaster, was rendering splendid service, and Mrs Thomas expressed, the hope that the young people of the Church would come forward and join the choir. Mrs Thomas concluded by again thanking those present and expressing good wishes for the continued prosperity of the Church.

A very happy evening then came to a close with the singing of “Auld Lang Syne.”