NEW BRICK CHURCH.

New Zealand Herald, Volume LXVIII, Issue 21037, 23 November 1931, Page 10

NEW BRICK CHURCH.

NORTHCOTE PRESBYTERIANS. FOUNDATION-STONES LAID. The foundation-stones of the new brick Presbyterian Church at Northoyto were laid on Saturday afternoon iri the presence of a large gathering. The ceremony was performed by Mr. 8. J. Hnrbutt, moderator of the Auckland Presbytery, who laid the first inscribed white marble stone, and by Mr. W. N. llushbrook, a pioneer of the church at Northcole, who for 27 years held service there, and on occasion officiated as minister, precentor and Sunday school superintendent. The dedication prayer was given by the Rev. D. D. Scott, of Onehuuga, clerk to the Auckland Presbytery. The Rev. F. A. Thompson, who presided, paid a. tribute to the, moderator, and said the innovation of appointing Mr. S. J. Uarbutf, the first layman to occupy that oflice, had been most satisfactory and s successful, lie said Miss Emily Hall, of Onehunga, who was now 91 years of age, was the oldest surviving member oE the original Northcote congregation, but wsis unable :to attend that day's function owing to failing health. Mr, llarbutt congratulated the Northcole congregation on their enterprise. The new church possessed many beautiful architectural features, upon which those responsible must be complimented. Speaking on behalf of Mr. Rushbrook, who laid the second stone, the Rev. 1). D. Scolt gave a historical sketch of the unselfish work of the pioneers. The early services were held in the Gladstone Hall. The first niissioner was Mr. J. B. Marshall, who officiated for four years. About a year after the commencement of these services, it became apparent that a church was needed. This was opened in October, 1889, the Rev. 1". Somerviffe and the Rev. R. F. Macnicol having given valuable assistance in its establishment. The sum of £2OO was borrowed, and Ibis was paid off in 1896. The, site cost £6O. The manse site was secured nine' years later, the section being a gift of the late Mr. William Aitken. The manse, which was built" in 1904 and occupied by the Rev. W. J. Gow, cost ,£SOO, of which £4OO was borrowed, but it was now free of debt. The congratulations of the residents were conveyed by the Mayor of Northcote, Mr. 1!. Martin. Mr. A." Harris, M.P., said the efforts of the congregation were worthy of the Church and the district. Tt was announced that the. church cost £1267 and there was a debit balance in the building fund of £367.