TEMUKA PRIMITIVE METHODIST CHURCH.

Temuka Leader, Issue 2483, 30 March 1893, Page 4

TEMUKA PRIMITIVE METHODIST CHURCH.

On Monday evening a tea meeting and public gathering was hold in the above church to welcome the Rev. VV. C. Woodward, who has lately taken charge of the district. The tea was held in the old schoolroom, and was well attended. Mesdames Fletcher, Smith, and Prattley, assisted by Mifs Smith, presiding at the tables. After tea an adjournment was made to the church, which was well filled 1 and nicely decorated. The chair was take' n hy Mr W. Fletcher, who expressed his pleas' I*6 1 * 6 at BBein S Mr Woodward, of whom for severa 1 pars he had had a very very favorable imprest loo * ; ls part, he was convinced their Church had a very creditable number of minivers, and in Mr Woodward they would find one who would prove an acquisition to the circuit. He had much pleasure in welcoming him to the district. Apologies for non-attendance were received from the Revs. W. E. Gillam, J. Dickson, and J. Dellow, who expressed their good wishes to Mr Woodward and regretted their inability to attend. Mr Sherratt (of Geraldine), station steward, gave a brief and earnest address, interspersed with a certain amount of humor, which was highly appreciated. In the course of his remarks he referred to the necessity of a clergyman continuing his studies through life. He welcomed Mr Woodward to the circuit as a very worthy young man—one whom he believed to be in the right place, and a man whom they would appreciate the more they knew him. He touched lightly on the subject of finance, impressing upon the congregation the necessity of working together to reduce the debt upon their church, and at the same time urged them to assist their minister in the duties of his office. Mr W. Smith gave one of his characteristic addresses, which was greatly appreciated. Mr W. Bryan also expressed his pleasure, as one of the congregation, in welcoming Mr Woodward. From his own observation, he felt sure that he would be able to do much good, especially among the young people. The Rev. Mr Woodward, after a few introductory remarks, said he was glad to hear the expressions of sympathy which previous speakers had uttered. In these days there were too many symptoms of indifference. People were content with being mere associates of the Church, and not active spiritual workers. In connection with his further studies, he claimed that it was necessary for a minister in the present age to strive to fit himself to cope with the foes of the Church. He should endeavour in his ministry not only to appeal to their hearts but to their intellects. Possibly he might not always please them in this. His theme, however, should be the love of Christ and Him crucified, and iu. this he should hold up to them the Christ life,. He hoped that he might bo not only a preacher but a frequent visitor to their homes. He ’believed pastoral visitations to bo of the ' utmost importance. He wished to come aim as a Me/M* .so that he might lead them, if possible, by sympathy. Ho looked for* imiuv trials and temptations, but, assisted by their mayera, tie hoped his ministry might be a prP* l^!o ona He asked them to consecrate their ..’ VOS to God and His service, so as to influence other men an 1 lead ihem to salvation. He prayed that he might be gifted with some of the old-time fire which filled Wesley and Whitfield, and be empowered to exercise an influence for good among thd congregation during his term of ministry". Mr Woodward’s address was loudly applauded. Mr Metson moved, and Mr C. E. Sherratt seconded, a hearty vote of thanks to all who had assisted ia making the gathering a success. In the course of the evening a number of selections were sung by the choir in excellent style, Miss Shen-att presiding at the harmonium. Mr Robson, of Geraldine, contributed two solos, and recitations were given by several of the Sunday School scholars. The meeting terminated with the Benediction.