MELANESIAN MISSION.

New Zealand Herald, Volume LXI, Issue 18895, 18 December 1924, Page 10

MELANESIAN MISSION.

SOUTHERN CRCTSS RETURNS.

BISHOP'S LONG SOJOURN.

TWO THOUSAND CONFIRMATIONS

Tho Melanesian Mission steamer Southern Cross returned to Auckland last evening, after completing a three months' cruise of the mission stations i n the Solomon Islands and New Hebrides Group. On board was the Bishop 0 f Melanesia, Dr. J. M. Steward, who has spent eight months supervising the mission work in tho islands.

Bishop Steward went to his scattered dioceso toward the end of April last, having then been a stranger to the islands for about three years, one of which was marked by. a serious illness in England. Though not enjoying his earlier strength and vigour, he returns in a benefited state of health.

Detailing his activities in the diocese Bishop Steward stated last evening, after the mission steamer had anchored in the stream for tho night, that he reached the mission headquarters at Siota, in the British Solomons, in June, and rornained thero until October, when the. Southern Cross arrived on its second trip from New Zealand. In that month a synod and conference was held in Siota between tho mission staff and native clergy. Several important matters concerned with the work and policy of tho mission were discussed. «£

Owing to his long absence as a result of his illness, tho Bishop found a great oeal of orL. to do, though tho mission staff, comprising about 20 European clergy, 18 native clergy and four or fiva laymen, had carried on splendidly during that period. Bishop Steward confirmed over 2000 natives during his sojourn in the islands. -v>

Early in November departure was taken from Siota, and after calling at various islands in tho Solomons and New Hebrides, Vila was reached on December 9. The steamer left the same day for Auckland.

Particularly fine weather was encountered during the cruise, with the exception of strong head winds and a heavy swell, which was met with 36 hours out from Vila. As a the vessel was delayed somewhat.

Bishop Steward states that there are difficulties at present in efficiently staffing the schools, where over 300 native boys and girls are trained.

Before returning the diocese, early in the New Year, the Bishop will attend tha General Synod iu Dunedin.

The Southern Cross bronght several passengers to Auckland, in addiiion to tha Bishop. They include the Rev. R. Hodgson, who is leaving tha mission to join the Waiapu Eiocese, and Miss Williams and Miss Sealy, both of whom are on furlough. The Rev. W. Milne is from the Presbyterian Mission at the New Hebrides, while Mr. R. N. Ashton Larney,official rarveyor at Vila under the Condominic Government, is visiting Auckland on holiday.