PRESBYTERIANISM IN AUSTRALIA.

Otago Witness, Issue 3111, 29 October 1913, Page 4

PRESBYTERIANISM IN AUSTRALIA.

INTERVIEW WITH REV. JOHN MACKENZIE.

(From Odh Own Correspondent.) CHRISTCHURCH. October 17.

Seen this morning by a representative of the News, the Rev. John Mackenzie, of St. Andrew’s Presbyterian Church, who returned to-day from a visit to Australia, said: -*‘l had opportunities afforded me to discuss the Bible-in-schools question with those well qualified to speak with authority, and I had also some opportunity of seeing the working of the scheme in detail in some of the schools. All the inquiries I made and all the facts that oamo under my observation satisfied me that the statements made by responsible persons who have first-hand knowledge of the Australian system of religious instruction in the public schools are borne out by the facts.” Mr Mackenzie was brought into contact with many of the leaders of the Presbyterian Church in Australia, and ascertained that, despite the difficulties that have to bo contended with in Australia—difficulties that are greater in many respects than thpse which confront the Church in New Zealand,—there is a distinctly hopeful spirit amongst ministers and church workers. In Australia the Presbyterian Church has a considerable hold on secondary education through its wellequipped denominational schools and university residential colleges. Incidentally, Mr Mackenzie noted with gratification that many who received their training in New Zealand held high positions in the educational world in Australia. A great advance has been made by the Presbyterian Church in Australia in connection with social service. A large homo for neglected children wits recently presented to the Church by one of its wealthy members, and shortly before Mr Mackenzie reached Sydney the same member endowed the home with £20,000. With reference to the back blocks and to foreign missions, ho found a progressive and optimistic spirit existing. It w r as somewhat difficult to gauge the religious situation in Australia; at first sight it appeared as if there was no church life in Sydney. The streets on Sunday were thronged with crowds, the fruit shops and refreshment rooms were open, and a considerable amount of baying and selling was done by street hawkers. Yet Mr Mackenzie was in churches that were absolutely full, and, despite the attractions of an open-air life and the pleasure resorts, many of the churches were well fitted, and active and 'aggressive work was being carried on. At the Central Mission ho saw 2000 or 3000 people present, and other religious organisations were doing g<>od and far-reaching work.