THE METHODIST CONFERENCE

Otago Daily Times, Issue 17239, 15 February 1918, Page 8

THE METHODIST CONFERENCE

DUNEDIN FUNCTIONS.

The Methodist Conference meets annually in ono of the four centres of the dominion. This year Dunedin is tho favoured city, and tiio eyes of the Methodists of tho dominion are now being directed to the Edinburgh of tho South. In a few weeks some 230 representatives will make pilgrimage to what is for the time being the Mecca of Methodism. Mindful of war conditions, it is proposed to complete all tho business of the conference in one week— a strenuous programme. This annual parliament o£ Methodism has wide powers, and from time to time radical constitutional changes are made to suit the changing conditions. This year the ministerial and lay mind is exercised over the proposal to modify the system of circuit representation with a view to tho reduction of the sizo of the conference —a change which it is believed would secure greater efficiency at less cost. But Methodism wisely protects itself against haety legislation, and tho change, if agreed to, must go to the synods and conference of next year for ratification. Thero is one department of tho church in which progressive ideas are fermenting—namelVj missions. Last year a bold, forward policy resulted in the doubling of the foreign mission income. This year a further advance is proposed. The sum of £27,500 is to be raised—£ls,ooo for foreign and £12,500 for home missions. It will not bo loEg ere New Zealand Methodism takes over from the Australasian Missionary Society ita own mission field, and indications point to a vigorous administration when that day arrives.

Although the present conference is to bo abroyiatocl, an interesting programme of public functions has been arranged. The spacious Octagon Hall has been engaged ior the young peoples' demonstration, to be addressed by Miss Abi-rnethy, M.A., and the Revs. A. N. Scotter, 13.A., and E. D. Putehett. Sjjecial interest attaches to the opening session of the conference to bo held in Trinity Church on the following day, when the retiring president's address will be delivered by the Rev. W. A. Sinclair, whose ministry in Dunediii will be remembered by many. Methodism knows how to inspire its people for fresh enterprises, and the tea und missionary demonstration are. designed to fittingly launch the progressive missionary policy which is in prospect. The traditions or an aggreesivo and evangelical church find expression in the open air mass meeting to be held at the Town Hall steps, which will be addressed by some of the abler young members of the ministry. The president elect, the Rev. J. A. Joughlin, will preside at the interesting ordination service, when Trinity Church is certain to be overcrowded. The conference functions will conclude with a musical feast in the Octagon Hail, provided by the combined Mothodi-.t choirs, under the baton of Mr T. liolgate, assisted by leading artiste.