Christian Revival Proposed

Manawatu Times, Volume 63, Issue 174, 26 July 1938, Page 6

Christian Revival Proposed

“Best Way of Celebrating Centenary ” CHURCHMAN SEEKS SPIRITUAL REBIRTH OP NATION Per Press Association. NELSON, Last Night. In the course of his presidential address to the Diocesan Synod this afternoon, Rt. Rev. W. G. Hilliard, Bishop of Nelson, said that on May 24 we celebrated the bi-centenary of that deep spiritual experience of John Wesley which marked the beginnng of a great revival that swept through England 200 years ago, and whoso results were still to be seen, notably in the existence and achievements of the Methodist Church and in the contributions of the evangelical group to the general life of the Church of England. “A similar experience in the hearts of churchmen to-day and a similar zeal and consecration in proclaiming it, I believe, would bring about a similar uplift and transformation in the world of our time,” continued his Lordship. “What better celebrating of the Centenary in 1940 could be undertaken than a spiritual rebirth of the nation brought about by the power and influence of a revitalised Church? It would mean deliberate and well-organised planning during the months that intervene, and I think it would be well if a committee were set up to take the matter in hand. “If during the next eighteen months wo can revitalise our own congregations, deepen and enrich their spiritual experience, enlarge their vision, strengthen their faith, teach them again tho truths of our religion, lead them to see the fullness of its implications and train them for the work of winning others, we shall then be able to launch them in 1940 upon the community in which they love, as well-trained units in an effective army and with a considerable hope of success. We ought to invite our brethren of other Christian churches to co-operate with us, so that as many types of mind and experience as possible may be appealed to. “By the presentations of the Christian truth and fellowship with winch they will find most readily a point of contact, the united character of the effort would impress the community and the working together would bind the various bodies in a closer brotherhood,” added the Bishop.