COUNCIL OF CHURCHES

Otago Daily Times, Issue 26689, 7 February 1948, Page 9

COUNCIL OF CHURCHES

VARIED ACTIVITIES The Otago branch of the National Council of Churches had before it on Thursday a long list of subjects affecting the co-operative work of the churches. The Rev. L. D. C. Groves presided. A deputation from the Rotary Club (the Rev. W. A. Stevely and Mr P. S. Anderson) requested the Council of Churches tcf organise annual Empire Youth Sundays similar to those in England and Canada to emphasise Empire unity and to call for the dedication of youth. The chairman assured the deputation of sympathetic consideration, and the Youth Committee was asked to report on details of organisation. Dr S. F. Hunter was appointed representative on the Council of Mental Hygiene. “ Home and Famil; Week ” The chairman welcomed the Rev. E. P. Blamires, formerly youth director of the Methodist Church, who had recently returned after several years' work in England, and is now giving much of his time as honorary organiser of home, and family weeks in New Zealand and Australia. Mr Blamires said that British experience made clear the need of new emphasis on right foundations for homes and families, on parent education and marriage guidance. The special week suggested would be a community effort organised by the Council of Churches, but with the aid of all societies interested and with the co-operation of the civic authorities and the Government departments concerned. The aim would be to show that adequate preparation beforehand for the responsibilities - of home life was better than remedy and reconciliation after difficulties had arisen. , Specialist speakers and a brains trust would discuss the social, physical and spiritual aspects of the question. An exhibition of various home crafts was also contemplated. The meeting decided to hold such a week in August in the Town Hall, with the following as committee: —Chairman (the Rev. L. D. C. Groves), honorary secretary (Principal A. L. Hadden), the Rev. R. S. Watson, convener of the Programme Committee (the Rev. D. Hickman), Exhibition Committee (Mr E. E. Wilkinson), Finance Committee (Mr E. R. Vickery, Dr W. G. Slade), and others to be elected. Immigration Welfare Mr J. Farquharson reported that the Immigration Welfare Committee had arranged accommodation for the parties arriving next week. It was agreed that the information be made available to ministers concerned, so that new arrivals could be assisted in adjusting themselves in new surroundings. . . It was decided to send to the Minister of Health, Miss Howard, an expression of appreciation of her announced intention to improve the conditions at Talboys Home and Seacliff Hospital as early as possible. Discussion took place as to the moral issues involved in the tramways dispute. The chairman was asked to consult both parties to ascertain if mediation by the churches and a reminder of Christian principles would be of assistance in ending the present condition.