PRESBYTERIANISM.

Sun (Christchurch), Volume II, Issue 613, 27 January 1916, Page 8

PRESBYTERIANISM.

NEW HALL AT LINWOOD. The Presbyterian Church has just erected a substantial hall at Linwood for church services and Sunday School. The hall is built of "Poilite" and wood, and is very tastefully finished both outside and inside, reflecting credit on the architects (Messrs England Bros.) and the contractor (Mr F. Shaw). The opening services were held on Sunday, January 23, and were conducted by the Hev. John Paterson, M.A., in the forenoon and afternoon, and in the evening by Mr Tcnncnt. Mr Paterson preached a spiritual and powerful sermon at the forenoon service, and afterwards outlined the progress of the work in Linwood and' the steps that had led to the erection Of the present hall. When further development look place it was intended to erect a church building. There were large attendances at all services, and the collections were very satisfactory. The initial tea meeting and entertainment was held on Tuesday evening, the Rev. Mr Paterson presiding. There were also present Revs. C. Murray, M.A., F. Rule, C. Strand (Methodist), 11. A. Job (Congregational), Mr Bickerstaff (of New Brighton), and Mr J. Tennent. After tea had been dispensed by the ladies (the tables being tastefully decorated), the Rev. Mr Murray, on behalf of the Christchurch Presbytery, congratulated the Linwood people on the possession of the hall. It proved (he enterprising spirit in which the Church provided for the spiritual welfare of the district, and also of the young people. The Revs. V.' Rule, Job, Strand, and Bickerstaff also spoke, and in conveying the congratulations of their respective congregations testified to the esteem in which Mr Tennent was held, and the value of his work in the district. The Rev. Mr Paterson presented Mr Tennent with a number of theological works from the Linwood Committee as a token of regard, and Miss Cunningham, organist, received a presentation in recognition of her services. Songs were rendered by Rev. J. Paterson, If. McLeod, Mrs Cud die (in Welsh costume), Miss 1. Malcolm, and Mrs J. Tennent. A pianoforte solo was beautifully ren-, jdered by Miss A. Gibb. A.T.C.L., ami a violin solo was played with great taste and feeling by Miss M. Gibb. The customary votes of thanks were proposed by Messrs J. Janiicson and R. 11. Wilson, and a 'nosl enjoyable and encouraging meeting was brought to a close by singing the National Anthem. On Wednesday levelling a gathering of teachers, parents, and scholars in connection with the Sunday School was held, at which tea was dispensed and a programme of musical items was given, also recitations by the Rev. J. Palerson and a character sketch by Mr lA. !•'. Sutherland.