British and Foreign Bible Society

Manawatu Times, Volume 63, Issue 236, 6 October 1938, Page 9

British and Foreign Bible Society

ANNUAL MEETING OF MANAWATU BRANCH

The annual meeting of the Manawatu branch of the British and Foreign Bible Society was held oil Monday evening, Rev. M. A. McDowell being in the th&ir.

Welcoming those attending, the chairman said the work of the society was very definitely for the Kingdom of God, and the spreading of the Gospel throughout the world was a pioneering endeavour. Since the last annual meeting their organising-secret-nry (Miss Fawcett), had been succeeded by Miss B. Hartnell. The chairman em phasised the inter-denominational nature of the activities of the society, and mentioned the fact that Bcv. D. Calder, the New Zealand secretary, was at present overseas. Reporting upon the year’s work, the hon. secretary and treasurer (Mr A. J Graham) stated that the main influence behind it had been the Women’s Auxiliary. under the able leadership of Mrs R. Moore, with Mrs A. Ashcroft as Appreciation was expressed Mr Graham of the work of Miss Hartnell and the enthusiasm of the ladies in assisting the distribution of God 's Word. The year had commenced with a small balance of £3 14s, and funds received during that period had amounted to over £3O. The report was adopted, and tin * offering was then received and dedi cated, the total being £2Ol 12s which, with donations amounting to £B9 10s forwarded direct t * Wellington, made a total of £309 17s Sid. Rev. F. S. Ramson, of St. Peter’s Church, Terrace End, was elected president for the ensuing year, the retiring president intimating that owing to special circumstances he was unable to accept nomination. Mr Graham was re elected hon. secretary and treasurer, and the ministers of Palmerston North as vice-presidents. It was reported that the Ladies’ Auxiliary had re-elected last year's officers. Emphasising the self-sacrificing devotion, unwearying service and enthusiasm of the lady collectors, Rev. J. Hubbard conveyed the thanks of the society to them, stating that the whole work of the society depended upon

their voluntary efforts, without which . its missionary activity would be shackled. Thanks were also returned by Mr Hubbard to the retiring president and to Mr Graham; he stated that they were grateful to them for their efforts. A resolution of appreciation was carried with acclamation. Rev. J. C. Macky added his appreciation of the services of the collectors and officers of the society, stating that all must have felt the benefit of their association with such a world-wide movement. The Scripture was distributed in many remote places, including the hinterland of China and the territories beyond Tibet. Subsequently items were contributed by Mrs Jamieson (vocal), and Mrs Sherman (a recitation). The retiring president gave an address, and the Scripture playette “Mary and Martha” was presented by members of the Y.W.C.A. During his address Mr McDowell referred to the fact that this year there fell the 400th anniversary of the injunction issued by King Henry VIII ordering au English Bible to be placed in all parish churches, and giving the people freedom to read it. Mr McDowell also spoke of the work involved

in translating the Scriptures into the languago and dialects of many lands, and of the activities of the colporteurs