PRESBYTERIAN ASSEMBLY.

Sun (Christchurch), Volume III, Issue 872, 25 November 1916, Page 11

PRESBYTERIAN ASSEMBLY.

TO-DAY'S SESSION. MR AITKEN MODERATOR. Press Association. WELLINGTON, November 25. The Presbyterian Assembly resumed this morning. The Rev. J. Paterson (Christchurch) submitted a report on temperance. Reference was made to the great strides in this reform in the past two years in Russia, France, Great Britain, Canada, and the United States, but in New Zealand the reform was now dragging wearily in the rear. In spite of huge petitions, deputations, resolutions, and the support of the Press, the early closing of liquor bars was refused by Parliament. The value of Bands of Hope as a means of training young people in temperance principles was mentioned. Gratification was expressed at the continuance of dry canteens.in military camps and at the anti-shouting law. The second Sunday in November was appointed as Temperance Sunday. An overture was received from the Presbytery of Ashburton, asking that the Moderator be set apart for three months to visit congregations throughout the Church. The suggestion was agreed to. The Hon. J. G. W. Aitken, M.L.C., was elected Moderator for the Assembly of 1017.