METHODIST CHURCH

Otago Witness, Issue 2921, 9 March 1910, Page 30

METHODIST CHURCH

ANNUAL CONFERENCE. Fifth Day—Tuesday. Maech 1. The annual Conference of the New Zealand Methodist Church was continued in Trinity Church on the Ist, the Rev. C. H. Laws "(president) in the chair. ADDITIONAL PREACHERS AND STATIONS. Applications for~home missionaries were granted as follows: —Home missionaries: ilasterton, Gisborne, Seddon and Fkxbourn'e, Brunner and Blackball. Probationers: Hamilton, Palmerston North, Napier, and Timarn, the position in the last-named circuit not to be filled until iy._.

From Opotiki (Auckland district): That a home mission station be established at Opotiki, which has been occupied during the year, and that it be called the Opotiki Home Mission Station. From Taumarunui: That Taumarunui be constituted a circuit, with a suitable rrant from the Home Mission Fund.— Granted. From Waiau (Otago district): Conference is recommended to give ' im-

mediate effect to the decision of last year

to occupy this station. —It was pointed out that immediate action was necessary. Another church had already entered the field. —Appointment to be made at once. TRUST PROPERTIES AND INVESTMENTS. The balance sheets of the following mission, educational, and general connexional trust properties and investments were, adopted:— Auckland district: General Connexional

Mission Property Trust, Native Education Trust, Emsley Theological Endowment Trust, Probert Trust, Prince Albert College property, and Auckland Book Association. —Mr Flcsher explained that the Prince Albert College property was let for £696 per annum; the expenditure for the year was £637 18s sd, of which £IOO was paid towards the reduction of the mortgage, which now stood' at £B3OO.

Wanganui district: Grey Institute, Kai Iwi Mission estate.

Wellington district: Native and Desti tute Children's Education Trust.

Canterbury district: Canterbury Home Mission Trust, " The Mrs Carvell Memorial Fund," Century Fund Orphanage Allocation.

Mr Flesher, in reading the ' statements, said that in some instances the rule as to having two treasurers and two auditors had not been complied with. He moved: " That the attention of members be drawn to these requirements." A discussion followed, and an amendment, " That the conference proceed to the next business," was moved and carried.

CIRCUITS PROVIDING FOR MARRIED MINISTERS.

The synod recommended as follows in regard to the question of what circuits are now due to provide for married instead of single ministers: — Rotorua due, but to be relieved for a third year; Taihape due, but to be relieved for a second year; South Wairarapa due, but to be relieved for a fifth year; Levin-Otaki due, but to be relieved for a second year; Kaiapoi due, but to be relieved for a second year, on condition that the circuit stewards give a written guarantee to fulfil their obligation in 1911; Malvern due, "but to be relieved for another year; Dunedin (Cargill Road) due, but to be relieved for a third year; Mosgiel due, but to be relieved for a second year; Invercargill due, but to be relieved for one year ; Motueka; and Westport The committee appointed to deal with these matters, to which they were referred back in order to bring them forward in the order in which they were to be considered, recommended later that married ministers be placed at Westport, Motueka, and Kaiapoi first, in that order. —An amendment, that the order vbe Westport, Kaiapoi, and Motueka, was moved, but lost, and the motion carried.

CHRISTCHURCH CENTRAL MISSION. It was reported to conference that the committee appointed by last conference met on several occasions and considered the various matters relating to the establishment of a Central Mission in Christchurch 'The Rev W. A. Sinclair was nominated %s the superintendent, but was unable to Jccept the position until 1911- Th« d»-

ci&ions reached on this point, and others, are embodied in the following recommendations :—(1) That conference be recommended to establish a Central Mission in Christchurch in 1911; (2) That the staff consist of a superintendent and an assistant, and that during the initiation of the mission th© assistant be a probationer. That the Revs. W. A. Sinclair and N. Turner be designated for these positions respectively.—The report was adopted unanimously. The President said this was one of the most important departures that had been decided on at the Methodist Conferences for some time. He had great faith in the movement, and would like to congratulate Mr Sinclair on the honour conferred on him in his appointment to the position of superintendent of the mission. FOREIGN MISSIONS. The Rev. J. N. Buttle, one of the treasurers of the Foreign Mission Fund, reported that last yearß operations had been very successful, and the total income showed an Increase of £177 3s 2d as compared with the previous year. The receipts for the year were—General, £2338 18s 2d; special, £76 19s Id;—total, £2415 17s 3d. Many large sums had been generously donated by wellwishers in all parts of the Dominion.

The balance sheet was unanimously adopted. CONTINGENT FUND. Mr J. C. Prudhoe moved the adoption of the contingent fund balance sheet. This showed the following receipts:—Balance, £387 8s 6d; sale of agenda. £l6 10s 9d; circuit levies £l4-29 16b 7d. Expenditure included : Expenses of Conference, £2ll 5s 6d; district expenses, £lO7 Is lid; Synod travelling expenses, £lO4- Is; publication of Outlook, £39 10s 8d; printing, £49 2s 7d; half cost of supplies to disabled ministers, £67 6s 3d; compassionate allowances to ministers, £105; levy for theological institution, £329 18s; loan to children's fund, £100; credit balance, £354; —total expenditure, £354 15s 9d. The report and balance, sheet were adopted. The Conference directed the treasurer of the Contingent Fund to pay £7 10s towards the removal expenses of the Eketahuna circuit for 1909.

It was resolved that, in view of the present heayy expenditure that has to be borne by the Contingent Fund, provision be not made for making the removal of ministers a charge upon the Contingent Fund, to be met by a levy upon all circuits and connexional institutions.

Sixth Day.—Wednesday The animal Conference of the New Zealand Methodist Church was continued in Trinity Church on Wednesday, the Rev. C. H. Laws (president) irr the chair.

SECOND HEADING OF STATIONS. The list of stations was read a second time, and after some discussion - and a number of amendments, was adopted. Th© following are' the changes, as compared with the first list of stations: Auckland District.—Auckland East, Rev. J. J. Mather (supernumerary); North Shore, Rev. W. J. Williams; .Mahurangi, Rev. P. R. Paris; Thames, Rev. T. Tiestrail ; Cambridge, Rev. W. Tinsley; Northern Wairoa, Rev. J. D. Jory; Whangared, Rev. W. J. Elliott; Rotorua, Rev. W. T. Aldridge. Warrganui District.—Waitara, Rev. W. Wills; Hawera, Rev. W. Burley; Palmereton North, Rev. F. Rands; Taihape, Rev. A. Allan; Waimarino, Rev. J. Richards; Taumaranui, Rev. J. D. M'Arthur. Wellington District.—Central Mission, Rev. E. O. Blamires; Wellington South, Rev. .J. Ward and Rev. R. Richards; Johnsonville. Rev. A. B. Chappell; Petons, Re-v. A. J. Seamer; South Wairarapa, Rev. C. H. Standage; Napier, Rev. A. F. Burehail; Hastings. Rev. T. J. Wallis.

Nelson District.—Richmond, Rev. C. Eaton; Greymomth, Rev. T. N. Griffin; Reef ton, Rev. R. Wilson ; Westport, Rev. W. W. Avery.

Canterbui'y District.—Kaiapoi, Rev. A. Mitchell; Malvern, Rev. H. A. G. Keck; Willowby, Rev. S. H. D. Peryman; Amberley, Rev. J. F. Martin. Otago District.—Dunedin, Rev, R. B. Tinsley (North-East Valley); Cargill road, Revs. D. J. Murray and R. H. Wyjie; Momi-ngton, Rev. T. N. Vealie; Roslyn,

Rev. T. W. New-bold; Port Chalmers, Rev. F. T. Read; Invercargill, Re\s..W. Grigg and C. Blair; Oamaru, Rev. W. H. Beck. | In reference to the. Otago changes, Mr Vealie (Mornington) has been stationed at Greymouth; Mr Newbold (Roslyn) at Reefton ; Mr Murray (Cargill road) at Mornington ; and Mr Read (Port Chalme.rs) at Waitara. COUNCIL OF CHDBCHES' WELCOME. Rev. Mr Fairelougit introduced to the president a deputation from the Council of | Churches, consisting of the Revs. D. Borrie and W. Hay, and Messrs F. G. Cumming, W. J. Hastie, and Duncan Wright. The President, shaking hands with the members of the deputation, expressed his pleasure at meeting with so many old friends, who at the same time were representatives of a body which had done a great deal of good work on behalf of the community.

Rev. Mr Borrie apologised for the absence of Rev. Mr. Saunders. _ He voiced his personal pleasure in seeing his old friend (Mr Laws) in the position of president of the Conference, and proceeded to refer to what had been done by the Methodist in deepening the Christian of the Church and the Christian life of the nation. On behalf of the council of Churchess, he welcomed _ the Conference to Dunedin, and wished it God-speed. Rev. L. Hudson and Mr J. H. Blackwell spoke on behalf of the Conference, and acknowledged in fitting terms the compliment paid by the deputation in its visit. Seventh Day.—Thursday. Tha annual conference of the New Zealand Methodist Church was continued in Trinity Church on the 3rd, the Rev. C. H. Laws (president) in the chair. GENERAL CONFERENCE REPRESENTATIVES. A large number of nominations were received when the Conference was asked to choose nine ministers and 11 laymen to represent it at the General Conference in Australia, and a vote was taken. The following ministers were declared elected: —Revs. P. W. Fairclough (Dunedin), 93; T. G. Brooke (Auckland), 81; J. J. Lewis (Nelson), 80; C. H. Garland (Christchurch), 74; W. J. Williams (Wellington), 67; W. A. Sinclair (Christchureh), 64; W. Slade (Dunedin), 66; W. Ready (Auckland), 61; J. N. Buttle (Woolston), 60. Votes were received by other candidates as follows:—Revs. C. E. Beecroft. 53; G. Bond, 45; A. B. Chappell, 35; H. Bull, 33; S. J. Serpell. 28; J. Ward, 24; T. A. Joughin, 20: T. Fee, 20; and by 21 others. The following laymen' were declared elected:—Messrs J. A. Flesher (Christchurch), 97; E. Rosevear (Dunedin), 97; J. C. Stephens (Dunedin), 96- J. C. Prudhoe (Christchurch), 94; J. H. Blackwell (Kaiapoi), 94; W. G. Bassett (Wanganui), 91; E. Dixon (Hawera), 88; E. H. Penny (Blenheim), 60; J. Veale (Auckland), 55; A. A. Lucas (Nelson), 51; G. Tiller (Wellington), 43. The following were elected by ballot as substitute representatives (wiio are to attend the General Conference in the event of any one of the representatives directly elected being- unable to make the journey): Ministers. —Revs. C. E. Beecroft, G. Bond, A. B. Chappell, J. Ward, H. Bull, and S. J. Serpell (in that order). Laymen. —Messrs W. Harding, C. S. Howard, G. A. Fail-brother, J. B. Shacklock, R. H. Turner, J. L. Scott. J. Prouse, J. W. Copithorne. R. Evans. J. C. Allen, W. T. Bowa-ter, J. W. Shackleford.

The president (Rev. C H. Laws), the secretary (Rev. S. Lawry). and Rev. VV. Baurrber and Mr G. H. Blackwell (treasurer of the children's fund) are ex officio delegates to the Conference. DUNEDIN CENTRAL MISSION. On the motion of the Rev. Mr Sla.de, it wa* resolved that the following be appointed a Committee of Management in connection with the Dunedin Central Mission : —All who are at present members of the quarterly meeting, together with Messrs E. Rosevear, C. A. Piper, E. Aslin, D. C. Cameron, jun., W. Penrose, J. B. Shaoklock, W. C. Allnutt, A. Martin, and A. S Wansbrough. WELCOME BY DUNEDIN PRESBYTERY. The Rev. Mr Fairclough introduced to the president a deputation, of welcome from the Dunedin Presbytery, comprising the Rev*. D. K. Fisher (Moderator), R. R.

! Davies, and W. Scorgie, and Mr Fitzgerald, j The president heartily welcomed them !as representatives of the. Presbyterian Church. The Methodists and the Presbyterians were one in far more numerous aspects of truth and belief than they were separate. There were deep, underlyingunities which bound them together, and, as mambers of that great Church, from the history of which they had gained much inspiration, the Conference heartily welcomed them.

The 'president thus struck the dominating note of the- discussion which followed, in which the Revs. Fisher, Davies, and Scorgie made brief speeches, and were replied to by the Rev. J. J. Lewis (Nelson) and Mr Howard (Timarn). THE WOKK OF THE CHURCH. The evening session of the Conference was devoted to a special purpose. The President said that this meeting was especially set apart for conversation on the state of the work of God, and pointed out that this was always an immemorial part of the Conference business—a time set apart to think over the most essential interests of the Church. He regarded it as the most important and vital session of the Conference, for while at other sittings the Conference discussed machinery and way 3 and means, in this session they went to the very heart of things. If the work of God went on nothing else mattered or counted. He hoped that those present would realise the Divine presence and receive a message that would mark their church life and their individual life. The Rev. W. J. Williams dealt in the course of a very impressive address with the work of God in the Church. The fact that while at Home during one year the Methodist, the Baptist, and Congregational Churches had reported a decreased membership the New Zealand Methodist had added 1000 to its membership, was a matter for great, thankfulness. But they had 144 ministers and probationers working in New Zealand, and this increase thus means an average increase of only seven to each teacher. And there were ;ilso 700 local preachers am'. 2300 Sunday school teachers, so that thus while there was much to thank GoJ for, thero was much to induce some searching of the heart. Considering all the Church's resources, and all that God put at their disposal they could not be altogether satisfied with the year's results. They did not seem to make sufficient impression on tho godlessnesa of the aj.e. There was something wrong—but nothing wrong with the source of their power, for there was power enough there to make the whole world pure and beautiful before God and man. Was there not a leak somewhere in transmission, and were they sufficiently near to God to be good conductors of spiritual energy? He asked: Did they, as ministers, give due prominence to the spiritual aspect? Did they, in preaching, strike with sufficient clearness and emphasis the evangelical note? Did office-bearers and congregation assist their ministers as they might do? He sometimes wondered whether they were sufficiently alive to the permanently abiding character of their orcliro.tion vows. Did they keep themselves in sufficiently close touch with the ready spiritual needs of the laymen who were their fellow-workers? The 18,000 persons who were on their church rolls was a Christianising machine sufficient, if vitalised, to reach every class of society. He thought they should try to make a member's ad'.nission to the Church more impressive, and let members more clearly understand that they were to be workers together with God. The Rev. Mr Slade gave some advice to his Conference brethren, and, secondly, to his brother ministers.. He said they, as Methodists, needed a larger conception of their place as ministers of a great Church, and should take a larger share in social, political, and industrial affairs. Other speakers made references to various departments of church work. At the conclusion of the session, it was resolved, on, the motion of the Rev. W. J. Williams:—" That this Conference gives thanks to God for the reported increase of 740 members, 244 probationers, and 541 Sunday scholars. It accepts this as a grateful sign of Divine- blessing, and of faithful effort in Christian homes and" in various departments of Church service. In view, however, of the appalling spiritual needs of

the times, this Conference realises the supreme importance of a full baptism of the Holy Ghost, so that a greater amount of evangelistic work may be accomplished." Eighth Day—Fmdat. The annual Conference of the New Zealand Methodist Church was continued in Trinity Church on the 4th, the Rev. C. H. ; Laws (president) in the chair. SUPERNUMERARY FUND. Mr Flesher presented a report from a. committee appointed to deal with supernumerary fund matters. The* ' principal, recommendation in the report was that provision be made whereby second wives' annuities can be purchased either (1) by increasing the annual subscription of the minister who marries again, such increaee to be paid during the remainder of his ministerial term, or (2) by purchase by means of a lump sum,

An amount of £35 was voted out of the contingent fund to the Rev. D. J t Murray as a compassionate allowance. THREE KINGS COLLEGE. The balance sheet of the Wesley College at Three Kings, showing a credit balance of £79 19s lOd, was adopted. The governor (Mr Simmonds) was granted leave of absence on account of ill-health, and his recommendation with reference to the carrying on of the work during his absence was approved of.

It was resolved—" That the Conference requests the committee to be prepared to present to next. Conference some definite scheme for the augmentation of the building fund, and urges that steps should be taken with the least possible delay towards the erection of the new Wesley College." • PRINCE ALBERT COLLEGE. Mr Flesher (on behalf of Mr J. W. Shackleford, treasurer of the Prince Albert College Trust) reported on the year's operations. The latter, after paying some £520 in interest, etc., and paying £IOO off the mortgage (some £8000), showed a credit balance of £4O. Mr Shackleford stated: —" There is no arrears of rent, and sve can expect to continue to reduce the mortgage year by year. . . . We ought to pay £3OO off this year without difficulty." The Conference adopted the balance sheet, one member remarking that in course of time they should have a very valuable asset in this Prince Albert College property. BIBLE CLASS MOVEMENT. A report on the Bible class movement was submitted, showing that, while the work of the organiser had been very successful, the movement had been a financial failure. It was recommended that' the office of organising secretary be discontinued. The Rev. Mr Williams said he rose with very great regret to move the adoption of a report which brought them face to face with a financial failure. It was. however, only a failure in a financial sense: the brother who had lately had' charge of the movement had done admirable work, and thrown himself heart and soul into his task. Neither the organisers nor the young people interested were to blame for financial failure. The blame lay at** the door of the last Conference. It had had before it a report showing that the movement was in difficulties, and it was recommended that a special collection be made in aid of the movement. But the Conference decided that the excess ' over the average amount of the collection received on Young People's Day be given to this movement. Bad weather reigned on Young People's Day, and the amount received actually fell below the average. Further appeals were not successful, and matters went from bad to worse. There were now liabilities —• mostly of an urgent nature—of £470. The Conference discussed the matter in committee, and decided that the office of organising secretary of the Bible class movement be terminated, and that the most pressing engagements be at once met. MISSION MEETING. The evening session of the Conference was devoted to a conversation on missionary work. There was a very large attendance of Conference members and' members of the local Methodist Churches. The Rev< jr. N. Buttle was chairman. The Chairman said that they had to con-

sider, first, the interests of the home mission (with which was allied the Maori mission), and they had to consider the work of foreign missions. He, personally, was most closely associated with foreign missions, and it would be satisfactory to the assembled friends, as representing the Methodists of the Dominion, to hear that the foreign misson income was steadily on the increase.—(Applause.) Since he had the honour to be placed in charge seven years ago the total income had just about trebled. The total income for the last year had been £243 in excess of that of last year. The. New Zealand Church had contributed admirably to the Boat Fund, having given £BOO, which was an excellent example to every other State in Australasia. •Referring to mission work generally, he 6aid that mission work developed wonderful character among the agents of the Church. He instanced the Rev. George Brown, one of the greatest missionary pioneers—and lie reminded them that New Zealand had given Mr Brown and his talented and devoted wife, to missionary enterprise. Not only was missionary work having its great influence on the character of Europeans: lit was also found among the native agents. -<He •referred to the Ladies' Mission Auxilaries, which were becoming an increasingly important branch of the Methodist organisation. There was a splendid Ladies' 'Auxiliary in Dunedin. It started by supporting one missionary sister in the foreign field. She was followed by a second, and now a third had been decided on. Thus the Dunedin Auxiliary was giving a splendin lead to other auxiliaries. That one in Christchurch was now making extra efforts, and was sending Miss Graham to the Hindu Mission in Fiji, to be associated with the Rev. Mr Burton. He referred to the work of Sister Julia, .who had broken down while at work in Papua, and come to New Zealand and recovered her health, and had engaged in mission work among the Maoris. But the Mission Boaid in Sydney had not lost sight of her, and had recently made arrangements for her to go l back to Papua, where she was to be maintained by ' the Ladies' Auxiliary. He ■referred, too, to the devoted work that was toeing done by Miss Jameson. And not only were they sending their sisters into the foreign field: they were also sending their young men. That very day the Rev. W. W. Avery had been appointed to work in the mission field in Papua, and, with his ''(bride, would presently be leaving for that jisland. The Chairman concluded by reiferring to a number of donations which had been recently received, and reported, amid applause, that that day a donation of £IOO had come to hand —£50 for home missions and £SO for foreign missions. Rev. T. G. Brooke spoke about home missions. He went at length into the work of the missions among the Maoris. There was an excellent establishment at Three ■Kings, where the Natives were given a sound training in modern agricultural and pastoral pursuits, and evidence of all this was very apparent in all parts of Taranaki. 'He spoke at length, and very interestingly, of his work among the Natives of the 'North Island. The Rev. William Slade devoted his address to foreign missions. He briefly, but very vividly, sketched the whole history- of foreign mission wcrk by Christians from the days when Rome was the hub of the world to the present time, when they spent !£27,000 per year on mission work in the South Seas and £2.000,000 was sent from 'Europe to the missionary field. That seemed a big sum of money, but compare that with the world's drink bills and war hills and luxury bills. Was it worth it? Did it pay? In the course of a powerful and telling address, which included some very interesting exrteriences of his own when at work in Fiji, Mr Slade proceeded to show that missionary work " is worth at," and. how the Church as a whole was working and waiting for the dawn of that great morning of the day of God. The speakers were heartily thanked.

Ninth Day.—Saturday. The Methodist Conference resumed its sittings on Saturday xnorning, the Rev. C. H. Laws presiding. The Rev. W. L. Blamires was welcomed as a visitor, and allotted a seat at the Conference. It was unanimously resolved, on the motion of the Rev. P. W. Fairclough—- " That the next Conference be recommended to accede to the request of the •Rev. S. La wry to visit England during 1911, provided that the' arrangements for carrying on the work be approved by the several committees having charge of the department and endorsed by the Canterbury Synod." Mr T. P. Ormerc-d, of Christchurch, was appointed representative to the English Conference, and Messrs T. Allen, J. G. Oobbe, and W. S. Allen co-members to the English Conference. Mr Cohbe was appointed representative to the Irish Conference.

The Rev. S. Lawry and Mr F. Allen ■were recommended to the General Conference for appointment to the Conference xaeethur in Toronto in 1911.

Mr E. Rcsev-ar presented' the statement of receipts and expenditure of the Super- : aumerarv Ministers and Ministers' Widows' j iFund. Receipts were shown at £1342 6s 6d j from circuit contributions (Otago leading i with £327 15s) and £9743 from ministers' subscriptions (Otigo leading with £253 Is). ■Mr Rosevear mentioned that the only district in arrear with circuit contribution was Wellington, to the amount of £173 2s 6d. i jThe ministers' arrears and lines came to a j total of £592 17s lid. From circuit, con- j tributions he had received £lB2 less than in i the previous year. This report, together .with a letter from Dr Morley, had been considered by a special committee of the Conference, which recommended the re- j affirmation of last year's minute as to j arrears. —The Conference decided to leave j this matter of arrears in the hands of the president and treasurer. _ j It was resolved, on the motion of the j !Rev. C. H. Garland —-"That honoraria! amounting in the aggregate to £l5O be paid by the Supernumerary Fund to the treasurers, in lieu of the amounts now paid os incidental expenses." The mover said that t-his was the- recommendation of the oommittee. I« recognised that a small honorarium was due in respect to the j and letter-writing. ) fee Conferenca accorded thanks to the

(treasurers, Rev. P. W- Fairclough and Mr . (Rosevear, and reappointed them.—Mr' Fairclough explained that Mr Rcaevear did all "the work. ••' I Mr llcsevear reported as to the balance* sheet and revenue account of the Super--iumerary Fund tor the whole of Austral-1 fesia and stated that the balance trans- . lerred to oapital account was several hun- J

dreds of pounds more than in the previous year, and that the fund was now in an exceedingly satisfactory position. . The expenses of the fund were paid entirely out of interest and investments. The amounts totalled £399,358 16s. A proposal was made to recommend the General Conference to so alter the law with reference to the retirement of ministers and their coming on the Supernumerary Fund that, either after 40 years of service or at o 5 years of age, they should retire without a medical certificate.—The matter was sharply discussed, and a tie on the vote having been taken, the president gave his casting vote with the "Ayes."—The Rev. W. Baumber then made entry, and stated that had he been present at the voting he would have voted " No." Rev. T. G. Brooke, organising secretary of the Home Mission Fund, submitted and explained a long tabulated statement of that fund's financial position. The total income was shown at £5012 13s 2d; total expenditure at. £5267 17s 2d.—The statement was adopted. The statement was adopted, and the conference adjourned. Tenth Day.—Tuesday. The Methodist Conference continued its sittings on the 7th. The president (the Rev, C. H. Laws, 8.A.) presided over a large attendance. STATIONS. The Stations Committee submitted the third reading of appointments, which was referred back with a few suggestions. The committee agreed to the suggestions, and the following appointments were thereupon confirmed; — *

Auckland Disl)ict.—Auckland: Piiifc Street—W. Ready, G. S. Cook; Mount Albert—A. N. Scotter (Kingsland). J. S. Smalley, and J. Thomas (supernumeraries); Auckland West—G. Bond (Ponsonby); Auckland East—H. R. Dewsbury, H. Beggs (Mount Eden), J. J. Mather (supernumerary) ; Wesley College, Three Kings—Joseph H. Simmonds; home mission secretary, T. G. Brooke; Auckland Methodist Mission — J. Wilson; Auckland (North Shore)—W. H. Beck (Devonport), John S. Rishworth (supernumerary): Auckland (Birkenhead)— T. G. Carr; Onehunga— S. J. Gibson; Otahuhu—Edwin Cox; Mahurangi—R. P. Paris; Thames—T. , Trestrail; Upper Thames —A. J. Reed; Waihi—J. Wrigley; Paeroa—A. C. Randerson; Franklin—J. Dukes (Pukekohe), one wanted (Waiuku); Cambridge—W. Tirsley, a home missionary (Te Awamutu); Hamilton —H. L. Blamires, one wanted; Huntly—one wanted; Paparoa —G. F. Stockwell; Northern Wairoa —J. D. Jory, a home missionary (Rehia): Whangarei—W. J. Elliott, a home missionary (HJkurangi); Rotorua—J. D. M'Arthur; Auckland Maori Mission —W. Gittos (Devonport), Hapete Renata, D. Wilcox (Kaeo), Te Tuhi Heretini (Whfrinaki)., Hamiora Kingi (Ruakura). Hauraki Paul (Reweti), Piripi Rakena (Kopua), H. M. Hare (Te Kuiti). Wansjanuii District. —New Plymouth—J. G. Chapman, W, Cannell (supernumerary), a home missionary; Waitara —W. Wilis; Incrlewood—W. S; Bowie: Stratford—C. C. Harrison; Eltham —F. Copeland; Hawera —F. W. Boys, W. A. Burley (Manaia); Cape EgmoTit—B. P. Keall, a >ime missionary (Rahotu); Kaponga—W. B. Scott; Wanganui—J. A._ Luxford, G. Frcst; Aramoho—E. D. Patchett; Rangitikei—C. Griffin, a home missionary (Mapgaweka); Sandon—G. Frcst: Feiiding—C. E. Beecroft: Palmerston North—G. W. J. Spence, T. T. Thomas, B.A. (Cuba Street), one wanted, G. S. Harper (supernumerary); Taihape —A. Allen; Waimarino —J. Richards; West Coast Maori Mission—T. G. Hammond, R. Haddon, a home missionary, and a deacone&s; Taumarunui—one wanted.

. Wellington District.—Wellington: Taranaki Street—S. J. SerpeU, J. R. Clark. H. B. Redstone (supernumerary), F. W. Isitt (without pastoral charge); Central Mission —E. 0. Blamires; Tborndon—T. Fee and B. 3 Rothweli; Wellington South—J. Ward and R. Richards; Johnsonville—A. B. Chaupell. M.A.; Hutt-B. F. Rothweli, S. J. Garlick (supernumerary); Petone—A. J. Seamer, W. Kirk (suDernumerarv); South Wairarapa—C: 11. Staridage, W. G. Maslin (Featherston), a home missionary (Greytown); Masferton—C. E. Porter; Napier— A. C. Lawry, A. F. Burchell; Hastings— T. J. Wallis; Gi.sborne—J. A. Lochore; Electa huna—J. J. Pemlrav; Dannevirke— J. W. Griffin.: Levin-Otaki—T. F. Jones, F. Rands; Wa.irmwa—B. J. James; Woodvillc—B. H. Ginger; Pahiatua—W. H. Speer.

Nelson District.—Nelson—J. J. Lewis, J. Crump (supernumerary); Richmond— C Eaton, a'home missionarv; Blenheim— T. R. Richards, E. P. Blamires (TW Marina), two homo missionaries, W. Lee (supernumerary); Hokitika—H. Ra.nston ; Greymouth—r. N. Griffin, a home missionary; Motueka—C. B. Jordan, 8.A.; Reef ton—R. Wilson; Westpo.rt—H. A. G. Keck.

Canterbury District.—Christohuroh (Durham Street)—C. H. Garland, C. H. Law, 8.A., president of the Conference (East Belt), J. N. Buttle (Woolston), A. M'Bean (Richmond), N. Turner (Durham street South), J. Smith, W. C. Oliver, L. M'Niooll, R. Taylor (supernumeraries); connexional secretary, H. Bull; Christchurch (Sydenham!. L. Hudson (editor connexional paper); Christchurch (Addington) —S. Griffiths, a home missionary; Christchurch (St. Albans)—W. A. Sinclair, a home missionary; Christchurch (Papanui) —S. La wry; Lyttelton—A. Peters; Springeton—J. T. Pinfold; Tai Tapu—A. Ashcroft; Lecston—T. A. Joughin ; Kaiapoi—A. Mitchell, C. Roberts (Ohoka); Rangiora—C. Abernethy, J. H. Hoslam (Woodend); Malvern on© wanted; Timaru—-W. Baumber, one wanted; Waimate—C. Penney; Temuka —W. Beckett; Aehburton—H. E. Bellhouse; Willowby— S. H. D. Peryman, a home missionary; Amberley—J. F. Martin. Otago District.—Dunedin (Trinity)—Pi W. Faircloug'h, R. B. Tinsley (North-East Valley); Southern Maori Mission—Neho Hemi Papakura; Dunedin (Central Mission) —W. Slade, a home missionary ; Dunedin (Cargill Road)—D. J. Murray, R. B. Wylie (St. Kilda); Dunedin (Mornington) W. Vealio; Dunedin (Roelynl—T. W. Newbold; Mosgiel—W. E. H. Abbey; Port Chalmers—F. T. Read; Balclutha— James A. Hosking; Milton—A. Reader; Lawrence—W. J. Oxbrow; Invercai-gill— W. Grigg, C. Blair; Oamaru—W. J. Williams; Gore—W. Greenslade; Otautau— G. T. Marshall, a home missionary (Nightcaps) ; Roxburgh — M. A. R. Pratt. W. W. Avery ia accepted for foreign mission work.

la addition, there are a number of home

mission stations to which appointments have not yet been made.

j CHAIRMEN OF DISTRICTS. The following were appointed chairmen ' of districts by ballot: —Auckland, Rev. G. | Bond; Wanganui. Rev. G. W. Spence; ' Wellington, Rev. T. Fee; Nelson, Rev. J. I J. Lewis; Canterbury, president of Conference (Rev. C H. Laws), ex officio; Otago, Rev. P. W. Fairclough. SUNDAY SCHOOL GOVERNMENT. The committee concerned submitted a constitution and a scheme for the govern- | ment of Sunday schools. It was stated '[ that the proposals mode for a stronger ' bond between the Church and Sabbath schools. The gist of the proposals were that, in place of Sunday school teachers' j meetings governing individual schools, 1 there shall be a Sunday school and young ! people's local committoe, which shall have the supervision of the young people's work ■in each individual churcn. All schools and young people'6 organisations in a cir- . cuit shall have their work supervised by ■ a circuit committee. Instead of the Sunday School Advisory Board, the functions of which have so far embraced Sunday school matters only, there shall be a Connexional Sunday School and Young People's Board, 'having oversight of the whole work of the youth of the Church, including the work of all young people's societies.

I The Rev. Mr Fairclough believed that j a certain amount of reticence was being observed in this matter. He believed that they should all have a proper under- • standing of the position, which, in his opinion, should be much more clearly outlined.

i The Rev. W. Slade said he was sur- ! prised to hear a wise man like Mr Fairclough talk so foolishly. The rev. gentle- : man went on to point out how the question of -Sunday school teaching required more attention than had been accorded it in the past. In America one never saw the comic ■ papers pouring scorn on the calling of j a Sunday school teacher. i It was also pointed out that the Church had no control over Sunday school j administration or of the election of the i office-bearers. Some of the teachers were j not members of the Church. A scheme ! of unification and control was necessary.

The Rev. A. B. Chappell contended in I the course of his remarks that these proI posals were merely to take the machinery ! already set up and to bring it under one i pair of eyes. The proposed scheme described by various speakers as "comprehensive,' "progressive," and " cumbersome," was, provided it was made\optional instead of mandatory, and subjected to modifications, was adopted MAORI SERVICES. I The following extract from a letter from the Rev. T. G. Hammond (superintendent of the West Coast Maori Mission) was held to be of interest: —" We have just had a splendid Maori meating at Okaiawa. Just fancy a Sunday morning service—a Maori choir, 60 strong, led by Peperi Rakiua's son; over a thousand hearers, with the Native Minister and party. Haddon nreached, and a £5 collection. This among the rankest Parihaka people, who at one time would have hunted us! The change is coming fast. Haddon surpassed himself. Carroll said it was one of- the finest things he had listened to." The mention of the collection was received with applause.

/ TOUNG KETHODISTS. The Annual report of the Methodist Sunday schools of New Zealand was presented. It showed that there are now 320 schools in the Dominion with" 2254 teachers and 22,627 scholars. The average attendance, however, is only 15,957; or, in other words, there is an average absence of nearly one out of every three scholars. Otago is the only district with an increase of junior members, returning 238 this year, as against 219 last v ear. The committee also reported that 4415 books had been added to the libraries during the year, bringing the total number to 47,394. The report was received.

GENEEAL. The thanks of the Conference were tern dered to Rev. W. J. Williams and Mr Kellow, treasurers to the children's fund. These gent'emen were re-appointed for the ensuing year.

It was resolved: —" That the scale of payment in the case of disabled ministers be considered by the Contingent Committee, to report to the next Conference." This matter arose from a question as to inadequacy of payment.

ORGAN RECITAL. On -the afternoon of the Ist Mr JesFe Timson gave a recital on the First Church <-rgan for the benefit of members of the Conference. The Rev. A. Mitchell sang a folo. Tho President of the Conference voiced the thanks of the gathering to Mr Timson.

CONVERSAZIONE A conversazione in connection with the Conference was held in the evening in the Early Settlers' Hall, and proved to be jof a very popular and enjoyable character. The ftali was packed with a large gathering of delegates and, local people, and after the rendering of a musical programme a social time was spent over supper. During the evening a couple of excellent speeches were delivered by the Rev. C. H. Garland and Mr J. A. Flesher, both of Christchurch. Those contributing to the -ntisical programme were: Mr Ernest Lawn (solo). Mr J. Wallace (violin solo), Mrs M'Kibbon (solo). Miss Craii (recitation), and Messrs S. and E. T. Lawn (duet). The chairman was the president of the Conference (the Rev. C. H. Laws).

- CITIZENS' MEETING. . There was a fair attendance at the Garrison Hall on Sunday afternoon at the citizens' meeting in connection with the Methodist Conference. Rev. W. Ready occupied the choir, and in the course! of bis opening remarks referred to the necessity for Christian citizens to centre their thought and energies upon the purifying of the cities of the Dominion rather than upon anticipations of the bliss of the heavenly city. He then introduced Mr J. H. Blackwell, Mayor of Kaiapoi, who spoke of " The Destructive and Constructive Duties of the Citizen. A splendid illustration of constructive work was seen in_ the humanitarian efforts of Dr Truby King. Stronger, healthier, happier life in city and country was to be nurtured, all recreations of innocent character were to be fostered 1 , and a watch kept on the future of the Dominion, and preparation made therefor. The early settlers of Otago were to be eulogised for the inheritance they had provided for the present generation, and because New Zealand was

to play a big part in the history of the southern world, as the Antipodean Homeland had in the north, the present citizens should strive to pass on and improve their inheritance for the race of the future. Mr Blackwell, who f or the past three years has graced the mayoral chair, was listened bo with close attention.

Rev. H. E. Bellhouse (Ashburton) spoke on " Christian Patriotism." He distinguished it from " Jingoism," the spirit of vainglorious boasting that was mingled with a scorn of other nations, and talked of ships, men, and guns as no self-respecting citizen would allow; also from mere emotional sentiment that produced a glow of patriotic feeling whenever the band struck op " Rule Britannia." Some people imagined themselves to be wonderfully patriotic, because drunk with excitement upon the news of Mafeking's relief being received. True patriotism consisted in that love of country which led to strenuous effort and strong endeavour to build up the country and watch its truest interests. It might not have much glamour about it: it was associated with self-sacrifice rather than bands and choiuses. The Greeks, Romans, and other pagan .nations had given magnificent illustrations of patriotism, but Christianity had kindled the natural love of country and home into a new glory, and touched it into greater brilliancy. Christ was the greatest patriot of His age—Palestine's most devoted son. Two characteristics marked His patriotism, and made it a thing set apart—an ideal. Firstly, its absence of contempt for other nations That was a false patriotism that extolled one's own at the expense of another's, and coined such terms as German sausage and yellow monkey. Christ's patriotism was co-existent *vith His love for all nations. Secondly, His patriotism showed itself in tlv teaching that the worst enemies of a country arc its moral enemies. This was a novel idea to the Jews. They rather viewed the Romans as their greatest enemies. Christ never uttered a word against Rome, but he denounced the sins of the people. To-day our worst foes were within the nation —not without. Not Germany nor the yellow races need we fear if the vices of drunkenness, gambling, and impurity are overthrown. No nation will stand up against its national enemies that cannot stand u» oefore its domestic vices, and the sanest patriot js the one who recognises that all depends primarily on the moral and spiritual state of the people rather than on Dreadnoughts and Kitchener defence schemes, however, needful these may be.

\FTERNOON SESSION. The following matters were dealt with: — Sunday school recommendations (consideration completed), training of local preachers, Wellington Central Mission, appointments in connection with naval and military matters, the formation of a lay pastorate on the recommendation of a committee appointed by the previous Conference, a vesolutim of protest against the military proposals of the Government (lost by one vote), suggested emendations 'n Ihe wording of the burial and other church services, and the bringing of the claims of the British and Foreign Bible Society before the Church. Thanks were accorded to the hosts and hostesses, the local press, the Arrangements' Committee, the president, secretary, assistant secretaries, etc., after which the doxology was sung.

FOREIGN MISSIONS. There was a pleasant break in the afternoon. The Otago Ladies' Auxiliary of Foreign Missions invited the members of' Conference, with their hosts and hostesses, to afternoon tea. The company that gathered quite filled the schoolroom. Mrs Grigg (vice-president of the auxiliary) presided. A brief report of the work of the auxiliary was presented by Mrs Ernest Rosevear, secretary, who also read £n interesting letter recently received from Sister Maisie, of Papua. Rev. J. N. Buttle, foreign mission secretary, in a brief address bore testimony to the valuable work of the Otago Auxiliary, whose splendid example was stimulating other centres. He also read a letter of greeting and appreciation from Mrs G. Bowron, president of the Canterbury Auxiliary. On the suggestion of Mr G. H. Blackwell, a retiring collection was taken up on behalf of the auxiliary. During the proceedings a solo was effectively rendered by Miss Sparrow.

YOUNG PEOPLE'S RALLY. The closing public function of the Conference was held on the 7th in the Trinity Church, taking the shape of a young people's gathering. There was a very large audience of both scholars and adults, which completely filled the building. The meeting was throughout of a very hearty nature, and the various speakers showed at every stag 1 © that they were in entire sympathy with their audience. The president of the Conference (Rev. C. H. Laws) was to have taken the chair, but his attendance was required elsewhere for the closing business of the Conference. In his absence the chair was taken by the Rev. H. Williams, who in his introductory remarks apologised for the absence of the president. The speakers of the evening were the Rev. C. E. Beecroft, Rev. A. B. Chappell. M.A. (organising secretary of the Young People's Forward Movement), and the Rev. P. R. Paris. The theme of each had naturally reference to the young life of the Church. Mr Beecroft spoke on "A Firm Grip on the Handle of Life," and develoned the points of his subject with such skill as to adequately impress them on the minds of his hearers. Mr Chappell developed the thought of the altruistic movement of the century, and spoke strongly on the necessity of rightly caring for the youth of the Church, inasmuch as it was the formative period of character. The concluding speaker was Mr Paris, and he reasoned interestingly on the points of ideal possession, action, and aspiration. Interspersed with the speeches were hymns, led by the Cargill Road Church choir, which also contributed an anthem in an excellent manner.