ASHHURST

Manawatu Standard, Volume L, Issue 110, 5 April 1930, Page 14

ASHHURST

FAREWELL TO MINISTER. (From Our Own Correspondent.) ASHHURST, April 4. On Wednesday evening last members of tho Pohangina and Ashhurst branches of the Methodist Church, together with many friends of other denominations, met together in tho Ashhurst Methodist Church to bid God-speed to their Minister, the Rev. F. ’ J. Parker, who leaves the district on Monday to take oVer the ' work. of tho Church at Frankton Junction, • Hamilton. Three years ago tho Rev. F. J. Parker was entrusted with tho task of uniting the districts of Bunnythorpe, Pohangina and Ashhurst into one circuit and now his work successfully accomplished ho moves on to a new sphere of labour, carrying with him tho loyo and rcspoct of all with whom lie has come in contact. In his Bible lessons in tho school, together with the vicar, tho Rev. Mr Goertz; in his foundation of tho Young Worshippers’ League; in tho social gatherings for winter evenings; and indeed in many other branches of his Church work hero the Rev. Mr Parker has shown a practical wisdom which has marked him as a man of keen intuition and deep common6ense, who was able successfully to meet the needs of his parishioners in a practical way that has been greatly appreciated. It was no wonder, therefore, that the church was crowded to its fullest capacity on Wednesday evening, nor that; tho speakers should have a difficulty in finding adequate words to express their feelings of lovo, affection and respect for the guest of the evening. Addresses were given by the Revs. Goertz and Kcndon, by. Mr Passey (circuit steward for Pohangina) and Mr W. N. Brewer (circuit steward for Ashhurst). At the conclusion of his address Mr Brower on. behalf of church members presented Mr and Mrs Parker with two valuable suitcases and an beautiful eiderdown quilt. The Rev. F. J. Parker, on behalf of his wife and himself, replied feelingly to tho many kindly expressions of affection and goodwill’ and in conclusion asked for the loyal support of all to his successor, the Rev. Mr Fordyce,. who is taking up the work In this district. During the evening vocal items were given by Messrs 8. Gregg ’ and J. Se'arle whilst instrumental items were rendered by Mrs Thomson, Mr and Mrs Wright and the j Misses Grace Dunham and Rona Fenwick. At the close of the evening, whilst supper was being handed round, those present I took the opportunity of saying farewell individually to Mr and Mrs Parker.