WAIAREKA.

Otago Witness, Issue 2111, 9 August 1894, Page 23

WAIAREKA.

August 7.— At a large representative gathering of the Waiareka parish, held in Enfield Ohurch on Monday evening, Mr Reid, of Elderslie, on behalf of the congregation, presented the Rev. J A. Will on the eve of his departure from the district to take charge of Lawrence Presbyterian Church, with a study table (to be selected by Mr Will himself), together with a purse of sovereigns as a token of appreciation of Mr Will as a man and as a minister. At the same time Mr Reid also presented Mrs Will with a very beautiful tea and coffee service. The salver bore the following inscription :— " Presented to Mrs J. A. Will by the W.dareka congregation as a token of their regard; and with best wishes for her future welfare' Augu t6, 1894." Mr Will made a very feeling and impressive reply in returning thanks for the people's expression of regard and goodwill to himself and to his wife. The Rev. A. B. Todd made a feeling Bpeech in reference to the past, and wished Mr and Mrs WiH Godspeed in all the future The Rev. J. Steven spoke sympathetically of the losa that the congregation was sustaining through the diparture of Mr Will from their midat The St Paul's choir (Oamaru). under the conductorship of Mr Frew, with Mr Kemshed at the organ tans several se.leotion.B with great taste and precision during the evening. Hearty votes of thank* were passed, to the choir for their services, and also to the ladies o{ the congregation who bo plentifully supplied tea, oake, &c. for the occasion. Tha Rev. W. Wright, of Otepopo, who has been appointed moderator of the Waiareka congregation during the vacancy, presided over the large and interested assemblage. The church is to be declared vacant on the 19th mat., after which date candidates will be heard.