PRESBYTERIANISM.

Sun (Christchurch), Volume V, Issue 1309, 24 April 1918, Page 7

PRESBYTERIANISM.

SOCIAL SERVICE ASSOCIATION. The annual meeting of the Christehurch Presbyterian Social Service Association was held last evening, the Eev. Dr. Erwin presiding over a large attendance. The annual report stated that there had not been any great development in the association's work, but there had been gradual growth, and consequently increased usefulness of the homes and other agencies by which the work of the association was carried on. Tho sympathy and liberality of the people had been such that the increased cost of maintenance had been met without undue anxiety. The report paid a tribute to the work of the Eev. F. Eule, whose influence in all forms of social service had been growing during the years he had been acting as the association's agent, till he had gained the confidence of all interested. The work in the Bligh's Eoad Home, under the capable management of Sister Margaret, had been carried on with great efficiency, although not free from anxiety, for there had been some serious sickr ness among the children. No»e of .the cases had proved fatal, and all had made good recoveries. Sixteen children had been admitted, and there were now 34 inmates of the home. Through the generosity of two friends, 23 of the children and the matron had been enabled to spend a three weeks' holiday on a sheep station in North Canterbury. Miss Murray, the matron of the Ehodes Street Homo, was giving great satisfaction, and was greatly beloved by all the children, over whom she exercised a wonderful influence. The health of tho boys had been very good. The financial statement showed that the total income on the general account was £827 17/5. The expenditure amounted to £398 3/4, leaving a net credit balance of £429 14/1. The amount of £213 2/10, which was the income from War Certificates, was not available for carrying on the current work. During the year the committee invested the sum of £SOO 10/- in War Loan Certificates, withdrawing the Savings Bank deposit for that amount. Legacies had been received during the year amounting to £lO3 15/-. The maintenance account showed an nil-round in-

crease, the income being £1399 8/9, and the expenditure £1529 11/3. There was a deficit of £l3O 2/6, which was £IOO less than last year's shortage. Dr Erwin, in moving the adoption of the report and balance-sheet, which were taken as read, reviewed the objects and the year's work of the association. The motion for the adoption of the report and balance-sheet was seconded by Mr E. F. Sutherland and carried. The Eev. A. Morrison, of Eakaia, in speaking to the report, conveyed the greetings of the Ashburton Presbytery to the association, and referred to the support the association received in his own parish. The following retiring members of the committee were nominated for reelection: Messrs T. D. Boag, J. Frame, W. Goss, J. Patterson, and J. I. Eoyds. Vocal items were given during the evening by Misses Ethel Johnson, Olive Curtis, Marjorie Harris, and Mr Sidney Williamson; aecompaniste, Miss Norman.