SALTATION ARMY, TEMUKA.

Temuka Leader, Issue 1915, 11 July 1889, Page 3

SALTATION ARMY, TEMUKA.

The last of the anniversary services in connection wiih the Temuka contingent of the Salvation Army took place on Monday evening, in the Volunteer Hall. It was preceded by a tea meeting, which was attended. by about 200 persons. The tables, six in number, were amply supplied with provisions of excellent quality by Mr T. Barr, the caterer. They were presided over by Mesdames McCann, Bowman, And Washington, and the Misses Wright, L. Benbow, Charteris, Pawson, Barney and Davis. After tea, whilst the hall was being rearranged, a procession was formed, and, headed by a band, paraded the principal streets, at suitable intervals appeals being made to bystanders to assist at the approaching service. Texts of exhortation, promise, and spiritual comfort were affixed to the wings or from the roof of the ball, and seats were arranged for the principal vocalists. A prominent feature was the Lasses’ Hallelujah Band. This was established about two months pgo in Timarn, and consists of ten performers.. They are attired in a neat uniform of blue serge, relieved with a trimming of red and white. In place of the customary bonnet they wear a cap, or toque, of the same material as their uniform, Considering their recent institution, their playing was excellent, and reflects the greatest credit upon their instructor, In their opening performance, and in the several selections and accompaniments played during the evening, they displayed a considerable amount of skill and good taste. Major Hammond, in an inspiriting address, opened the meeting, and expressed his pleasure at seeing bo large an attendance. At this time there were between four and five hundred people present. Hei spoke earnestly, and evidently with effect, for some minutes, when a musical selection was performed.

After a verse bad been played, the Lasses’ Band sang the refrains, which were taken up heartily by the congregation. Captains Harvey, Gannion, and Bates also spoke, as did Mrs Captain Bates, who is evidently a favorite with

the congregation. The meeting was carried on with vigor and spirit nntil about 10 p.m., and many striking testimonies were given. Throughout, the meeting, although partaking, of the lively nature which characterises the gatherings of the Salvation Army, was entirely free from the slightest element of rowdyism, and the slightest intimation of the officers was sufficient to check any undue ebullition of spirits. In the course of the evening it was mentioned that the cause of the Array was prospering so much at Woodbury that it had been determined to open a station at Geraldine to work both places. The announcement was received with a volley. The gathering is considered to have betn the most effectual yet held, and its orderly conduct reflects the greatest credit upon the staff. It may be mentioned that Lieutenant Worsdell has been promoted to the rank of Captain.