CENTRAL MISSION

Otago Daily Times, Issue 22790, 27 January 1936, Page 6

CENTRAL MISSION

“ To-day a great nation mourns the loss of a great King, and I am sure that every loyal heart throughout the British Empire was deeply stirred when the news of our monarch’s sudden death was flashed around the world,” said the Rev. A. K. Fetch, who conducted the memorial service at the Methodist Central Mission last evening. There was a large attendance, and the service opened with the singing of the National Anthem. Continuing, Mr Fetch said that to many it seemed as though a shadow had been cast upon their lives. All the love and affection for the late King, which was inbred in every British subject, filled their souls. Throughout the world, in every nation, the hearts of the people were lifted in prayers for Queen Mary and all the members of the Royal Family as they sorrowed at the loss of one who was so dear to them. The nation shared their grief. " Death is no respecter of persons,” continued Mr Fetch. “He lays his mantle over kings and peasants alike. So it is that the heart strings of our affections have been struck, for we mourn the death of one who was not only a noble King, but also an intimate friend and Christian gentleman. Of him we might almost say, ‘ Whom having not seen, we love! Yet our sorrow is mingled with hope as we own our allegiance to the new King Edward VIII, who already has won the affection of his people. We pray that the same spirit which possessed and guided his father may also lead him.” The address was followed by a solo, “Nearer, My Cod, to Thee,” which was sung by Mr E. Freeman. Appropriate hymns were sung. Mr Fetch took as his text “I am He that liveth and was dead, and behold I am alive for evermore.”