SUNDAY EXCURSIONS

Otago Daily Times, Issue 22195, 23 February 1934, Page 13

SUNDAY EXCURSIONS

THE PRACTICE DEPRECATED METHODIST OPINION DIVIDED. (Peb United Press Association.) WELLINGTON, February 22. > Sunday observance figured prominently in. the Methodist Conference discussions to:day when public questions were under consideration. A divergence of opinion was disclosed on the subject of Sunday excursion trains ;as organised by the Railways Department. Some speakers vigorously opposed the traffic as subversive of the spirit of. Sunday, and others maintained that the excursions conferred physical benefit on those who patronised them and also presented an opportunity for service by the church and ministry, who could carry the message of the Gospel to the beaches and other places of; resort. % > . - That church people themselves were offenders in the matter of Sunday excursions wai alleged by MrC. H. Chapman, of Cliristchurchj who said he had been informed by: the Minister, of Railways that there was a public demand for trains, and that they .were usedby church people among others. The speaker urged that the church must set its own house ,in order before condemning Sunday excursions. Resolutions were adopted deprecating' the action of the Railways Department in promoting Sunday excursions and calling upon Methodist people to resist the .present-day encroachments on . the sanctity of the Sabbath Day. ■■.' 'Other resolutions deprecated the increase in gambling propensities in the community, with special reference to art unions. , , The Government was also urged ,to tighten up the censorship of moving picture films. •.■/■-.. '. ■