SAILORS’ FRIEND SOCIETY

New Zealand Times, Volume XLIX, Issue 11292, 18 August 1922, Page 2

SAILORS’ FRIEND SOCIETY

ANNIVERSARY MEETING. AIMS OF THE INSTITUTE. There was a large attendance of sailors and friends at the Sailors’ Friend Society last night, when the anniversary meeting was held. Sir Robert Stout presided, and in opening the meeting expressed pleasure that the society had had a successful year. New Zealand being a maritime country, it would always have many visits from men who followed the sea, and he thought it wag only fitting that New Zealanders themselves should follow that oalling. He spoke of the bettered conditions for sailors at the present time, improved food and accommodation on ships, and compared these with the bad old times. He emphasised the benefit the seafarer obtained from the institute, where they were well looked after, and referred to the capable manner in which the missioner, Sir Moore, looked after everything, also Mrs SlooTe. Mr Moore read the statement of accounts, and said the year had been successful financially. £142 had been received in legacies, but the subscriptions had fallen off. He emphasised that the institute was a meeting-place for sadore and was open all the year round. It was a real home for the men from the sea. The speakers of the evening included Mr Harkness, chairman of the Harbour Board, Sir John Luke, the Hon. O. H. Izard, His Worship the Mayor, Captain Hooper (Nautical Adviser), nad the Rev. M. Holland. TO CARRY ON GOOD WORK. The following resolutions were passed:— (1) That this meeting desires to place on record the great work of the beloved founder of the building, the late Mrs M. A. Williams, whose gift has done so much to enhance the pleasure of the brief sojourn of sailors of all nations in our port. And, further, it rejoices that for_ all time men of all creeds will find spiritual and temporal helps in so suitable a place when fai from home. (2) That this meeting desires to express its deep thankfulness to Almighty God for continued blessing on the various branches of the work and for all that has enabled the society to “carry on.” Further, it pledges itseli to do all possible to aid the mission at this time of general depression to carry to the men who enter our institute true religion and to do all pos-

sible to make the building a haven of rest during their stay. (3) That this mission's work' be commended to the practical and prayerful sympathy of the public, and that the thanks of this meeting *>o given to tbo mission workers, the committee, the voluntary helpers, the Press, and all friends of the mission." This was moved by the Rev. M. Holland, 8.A., 8.D., and seconded by Captain Hooper (Nautical Advisor). The latter referred in terms of high appreciation to the helpers, the committee, and all who gave their time to the work. - <4) That the best thanks of this meeting be given to His Honour Sir Robert Stout for presiding at this meeting, also to the performers for their excellent entertainment, was moved bv Mr Johns, one of the mission workers, and carried by hearty acclamation. During the evening recitations were given by Mr Cnlford Bell, sours by Mr Taliiwi. a duet by Mrs Edwards and Miss' Pa=sau. flute solo by Mr J. W. Jack. Mrs Fortune accompanied, and also led the chorus singing.