THE BAPTIST CHURCH.

Otago Witness, Issue 3860, 6 March 1928, Page 11

THE BAPTIST CHURCH.

AUCKLAND March 1. A crowning event in a project long cherished took place on the slopes of Mount Hobson yesterday afternoon, when thy Theological College for the training of students for the Baptist Ministry was officially opened under the happiest circumstances. The institution is a gift to the New Zealand Baptist Union from “ seven men animated by a desire for service,” and the generosity of well-wishers throughout the Dominion resulted in the complete equipment and furnishing of the college free of debt.

Picturesquely set on the northern slope of the mount, and commanding incomparable views of the harbour and the countryside, the college is steeped in an environment excellently suited for study and recreation. It was until recently the home of the late Mr H. M. Smeeton, whose generous assistance was in a large measure responsible for the founding of the college. The building comprises three floors, with full provision for lecture halls and living accommodation for the principal (the Rev. J. J. North), tutors, and students.

Following the official opening, Mr F. N. Andrews (chairman of the College Committee) presided at a short service inside the building. A tribute to the work of Mr Smeeton was paid by Mr Andrews in the course of a short address.

“This is the third outstanding occasion in the history of the church in New Zealand,” said the Rev. Eric Evans, of Dunedin, president of the union, in ranging the event alongside the launching of the union in 18S2 and the initiation of the Baptist Missionary Society in 1885. Speaking as a former secretary of the College Committee, the Rev. W. S. Rollings, of Wellington, recalled the early history of the college scheme. “We have an adventurous principal with an adventurous programme, which I hope will challenge the finest of our young men and young women to press through the portals,” he said. There are 10 students in r-sidcnce. Mr North will be assisted in the training of the students by the Rev. A. G. Griff and the Rev. J. L. Laird.