ALL SAINTS’ CHILDREN’S HOME.

Manawatu Standard, Volume XLII, Issue 10107, 15 October 1917, Page 2

ALL SAINTS’ CHILDREN’S HOME.

BIRTHDAY FESTIVAL,

The, anniversary of the All Saints’ Children's Home which took place on Saturday was celebrated in the usual way by U birthday festival to the children. The event is always looked forward to with keen anticipation by the’ little ones, and although the weather was somewhat unpropitioiis for the opening ceremony, later in the afternoon the elements took on a kindlier aspect, and the children were able to enjoy to the utmost their annual birthday treat. A large number of visiters were present, including the Craven School pupils, and music supplied by the hand added considerably to the afternoon's enjoyment. The guests were welcomed by the Rev. Blacklxmrue and Mi. s Foley, and w< re afterwards shown over iho Home. A few brief speeches then hilowed. The Rev. Blackhoume thanked the guests for their interest in the home, and said that the past year had been one of difficulty on account, of the changes in the stall. The vacancies had now been filled, and all was going we A under Miss Foley. Canon Coates, who voiced hi- pleasure at being' pieseut, said the festival was oneafter hi- own heart, and he wished them all many happy returns, These children had lieeii placed in the hands of the (Tutn-u to he nurtured and cared tor. and every cllortl was being made to do this work, as it was realised that the < hildLli instincts must lie developed in a Christian atmosphere. The State recognised that the children wore its most. vi;lanhi“ a-’set at present, as they would have to fill the places of the men who were fight iug—girls as well as boys. Democracy would spread, and one of tho leading principles of democracy was to give every chance; to tho child. There were mute inglorious Moses as well as Miltons, and MbsCs left Ids tmi'k on the whole woild. These children might perish by neglect and yet might he saved, and become pillars ot the State. As the Stale expected some return from the children, they should have every chance, so that they might become shining lights in the world. Mr A. Seifert al-o voiced his pleasure at being present, and referred to tho good work-being done by the Horne, The child'•on, continued th;■ speaker, had till their lives in front of them, and would have to take control of the country and do the work we are now doing. It was. therefore, necessary that they should have every chance, and be was satisfied they were getting it there. The Home reflected great credit on the management, and the committee took a great interest in its welfare. He was assured t!: it money given to the Home would be well spent, and us charity begins at home, we should caro for the children of our own country first, and see that they are not neglected. Mr A. SkoniK.n also spoke, and explained the financial petition ol the Home. lie mentioned that an entertainment, was being organised to raise funds for the Home, and hoped it would he well supported. The visitors were then entertained at afternoon tea served by the matron, Miss Foley, and her stall’, whih music was discoursed bv the hand. Apologies were, received from Messrs: Lewis and Wilson, and Miss Wilson. A generous supply of presents, was received from the townspeople, the verandah being oiled high with all kinds of useful household articles, produce, and home-made delicacies.