PORTOBELLO:

Otago Witness, Issue 2230, 26 November 1896, Page 24

PORTOBELLO:

Novejibfr 20.— The annual soiree of the Presby* terianOhurch was held on the evening of Wednes> daylast. The Chairman (Rev. A. Greig)said atthj outse* that in intimating the soiree he stated tha^ he wished it to be a great affair thii yeari because they were there to set the stone a-rollina which was to gather in the fund? neoesaary tor effectiaa extensive rewiia ou the church. It c&tf.

. therefore, been very gratifying to himself too see • the hearty way in which' all and sundry had • endeavoured to carry out his wish, and it must • now be very gratifying to them all to see bo many present. After a brief statement by the chairman as to the more spiritual work of the church curing the past year and a detailed account by the treasurer (Mr Barton) of income and expenditure, very instructive and interesting addressus were , delivered by the Revs. E C. Tennent and A. Cameron, Captain Thompson, and Mr Barlius- - Bam. The choir, under the leadership of Mr Jack, with Miss Clark as oiganist, sang a number of appropriate hymns, and Mr Buckingham gave a eolo, all of which seemed to be highly appreciated. After the usual votes of thanks to all who had helped to make the soiree the great success it had been, and a kindly recognition on the part of the minister of the willing aid given by many all the year through in carrying on the work of the church, the meeting was brought to a close by singing "Saviour breathe an evening blessing."