CHURCH IN THE ALPS

Taranaki Daily News, 29 April 1931, Page 9

CHURCH IN THE ALPS

A MAGNIFICENT SETTING. GLACIER AND MOUNTAINS. The dedication of the newly-erected Church of St. James at Franz Josef Glacier, Waiho Gorge, Westland, took place on Sunday afternoon. The foundation stone was laid by the GovernorGeneral, Lord Blcdisloe, early in February. The dedication service was conducted by Bishop West-Watson, of Christchurch, assisted by the Rev. J. R. Young, of Hawera, and the Rev. A. K. Warren, vicar of Ross and South Westland. A congregation' of 150, including settlers from the surrounding districts and guests from the Glacier Hotel, assembled. for the service.

In his address Ilisliop West-Watson spoke of the initiation of the effort to erect a church five years ago and of the spirit of generosity and zeal which had marked the progress of the appeal for funds. The church had cJst about £lOOO and £2OO was still required to free it of debt. So unique and beautiful was its setting that travellers from all parts of the world would come to worship at St. James’ and the bishop hoped sincerely that an effort would be made to remove the remaining debt before the end of the year.

The church, which is Elizabethan in design, with, seating accommodation for 100, is situated in a forest clearing on a site donated by Messrs. Peter and Alex. Graham, It overlooks the Waiho River and commands a magnificent panoramic view of Franz Josef Glacier and the snow-capped peaks of the Southern Alps. The beauty of such a setting has been recognised by the builders of the church and instead of the usual stained glass panels, wide plate glass windows have been set above the altar, giving a clear view of the forest, glacier and mountain beyond. Many donations have already been made to the new church, including the communion plate, font, organ, and bell, and also altar f rentals and curtains, which were made by members- of the Waiho Mothers’ Union. At the conclusion of the dedication a christening service was conducted by Mr. Warren, the first child baptised in the new church being the infant son of one of the guides, Mr. J. Fluety.