W.C.T.U.

Taranaki Daily News, 12 June 1926, Page 18

W.C.T.U.

TARANAKI-WANGANUI CONVENTION.

The seventeenth; -annual district W.C.T,U. Convention was held in the Methodist Church, Inglewood, during the week. On Tuesday evening a reception was held to welcome visiting delegates. The ehair was taken by the Rev. Bowen, deputy-Mayor. A musical programme had been arranged and songs, piano and violin solos were rendered. Amongst those taking part was Miss D. Loveridge, of New Plymouth. Wednesday was devoted to business, and the session opened at 9 a.m. Between 40 and 50 delegates answered the roll-call, and several visitors were present during the day. Eight delegates Were attending their first convention. The session opened with devotions and an address on “Responsibility.” Votes of sympathy were passed to relatives of members who had passed away during the past year. The Taranaki district president, in her address, spoke of the good results following the consistent teaching of the children in scientific temperance, as shown in the United States and also in our own country. Invercargill had worked amongst the children for years with Bands of Hope, etc., and when they came of age to vote they voted Invercargill dry, and it had remained so ever since. An appeal was made for an increase of subscribers to the “White Ribbon.” .

Several members spoke to tte address, testifying to the work of Bands of Hope in different parts of the district and the interest taken in the work by parents and others. Fourteen unions sent reports of work, which were read and discussed.

At the noontide hour, Mrs. J. C. Craig sang the “World’s Noontide Hymn,” the convention joining in the chorus. The afternoon session was opened with devotions and an address on “Sharing our Oil.” After the roll-call the Wanganui president gave an address, explaining that the motive of the union is service for others, with the idea of helping those who are under the bondage of drink. Five-minute speeches followed the address, there being four entries. The subjects were “Maori Work,” “Opportunity,” “Unity,” and ‘‘A. Personal Experience.” The Rev. Lindsey acted as judge, the prize being awarded the speaker on “Opportunity.” Mrs. Craig entertained the audience with a solo, “He shall feed His flock like a shepherd.”

The election of officers was then proceeded with, in the Taranaki districtonly one change being made, namely, the election of Mrs. Phillips, of Stratford, as president. Mrs. Craig made-an appeal for assistance in working for the- Taranaki seamen’s rest. Donations from Eltham and Inglewood were gratefully received. Votes of thanks. were passed to all who had assisted in making the convention a success. . .