MENTAL AFFLICTIONS.

New Zealand Herald, Volume LX, Issue 18520, 3 October 1923, Page 11

MENTAL AFFLICTIONS.

HOSPITAL OASES VISITED.

Accompanied by Bishop Averill and a number of clergy, Mr. Hickson visited the Mental Hospital yesterday after noon. ■ ■- About forty patients, including .several children, men, and women, -i.'d some bed-ridden cases,' were presented. With the exception of the latter, who were afterwards visited .in a neighbouring ward, the patients were assembled in one of the, pleasant recreation halls in the care of nurses and - /attendants. The service was very simple. It was commenced with! the singing of the' hymn, "Abide With Me," and brief addresses by Bishop ' Averill and Mr. Hickson. Both appealed for faith in the presence of Jesus, and confidence in His love. Mr. Hickson said all Healin*7 came from God, and in all that .they did for the people in Cheir ; care, the doctors and "nurses of the hospital Were using God's gifts. They came to supplement their work with prayer and faith. He explained , the ' laying on of hand's, and added: "You may not notice anv change, but God has begun H's work to-day. Gradually you will re*: lise that God's healing ' spirit, is workings in you, giving you' peace in mind, health in body, quietness., in soul. The patients remained , seated, along the sides of the room while Mr. Hickson went to each in turn, laying his. hands on ; their '■ heads, -and uttered a simple prayer for the relief of the sufferers disorder. He was accompanied by the medical superintendent, Dj». R. M. Beat tie • whose brief explanation not only enabled , the missioner to vary the invocation, Tout .in .several cases to address to {the patient a few words of comfort ... and encouragement. Th* Bishop followed, giving, the blessing with its prayer for the • completion of the healing. ■'■■■'■■ -"■ ■■"'••