CHRISTMAS SERVICES

Poverty Bay Herald, Volume LV, Issue 17143, 27 December 1929, Page 3

CHRISTMAS SERVICES

CHURCHES WELL FILLED LARGER CONGREGATIONS Christmas church services attracted large numbers of worshippers, who appeared to attend in even larger numbers than -was the case last year. The usual Communion services were hold by the Church of England throughout the district, and at least in GisbomeThe number of communicants was larger than usual. Special Christmas services were held at Holy Trinity Church later in the morning and in the evening, tho floral decorations being in keeping with the season. Canon Paeko conducted the services, which, were typical of Christmastide. Apart from the celebra-

tions of Holy Communion, there were no other services in the Church bf England on Christmas Day, those at Holy "Trinity Church acting as combined services. In St. Mary's Church, High Mass. 'which was celebrated at midnight on Christmas Eve, attracted a congregation which more than comfortably filled the building, many being unable to secure admission. Father Murphy officiated. Mass was also celebrated in St. Mary's Church at C.oO a.m., 7.30 a.m. and 10 a.m. on Christmas Day, when there were again largo [attendances. I Two services were held in' the Bright Street Methodist Church, one at 11 a.m. and tho other at 7 p.m. Tho morning service was well attended, the Rev. Geo. Frost officiating, while the. Rev. Ivo Raynor delivered an address, "The Song of the Swaddling Bands." The evening gathering was not quite so well atitended, the repent rendering of the "Messiah" taking away some of the congregation, as well as some of the members of the choir. In the evening Mr. Frost took as his theme "The Mvstery and Majesty of Christmas," while'in addition Christmas ihymns and carols were sung. The tehristmas Day -collection in aid of the Mastertoii Methodist' orphanage totalled about £B, a little less than was the case last year.