THE METHODIST CHURCH.

New Zealand Herald, Volume LXII, Issue 19169, 7 November 1925, Page 12

THE METHODIST CHURCH.

DISTRICT SYNOD NEXT WEEK. MARKED PROGRESS RECORDED. Hie annual synod of the Methodist Church in the Auckland district will open in the Pitt Street Church next Wednesday. The statistical returns show marked progress as the result" of the year's work. Special missions have been held in many places, and these probably account for the increased membership. Questions to be considered during the sessions will include the proposals relative to the new Theological College. The principal, the Rev. Dr. C. H. Laws, will propound a general scheme for presentation to conference. It is proposed to make a Dominion canvass for the money required. On Tuesday the ministerial committee will meet and consider what students are to be continued in college. At present there are 15 in training, but some of these have completed their course, and will go out to circuit work. Seven young men are offering themselves as candidates for the ministry.- This is a record number for the Auckland district, and is a sign that the shortage of candidates is a thing of the past. The public functions of the synod include a public service at Pitt Street Church on Tuesday evening, when the Rev. Lionel B. Fletcher will be the preacher. On Wednesday evening, in the same church, a dedication service will be conducted, when Sister Nicholls will be dedicated as a deaconess for work among the Maoris. Immediately after this service the usual synod social will be held in the schoolroom.