Farewell Social to the Rev. W. Gillies.

Temuka Leader, Issue 3711, 9 March 1901, Page 4

Farewell Social to the Rev. W. Gillies.

At Titnaru on Tuesday the Kev. W Gillies was entertained at a farewell social by the congregation of Trinity [Presbyterian Church. St. Mary’s -Sunday Schoolroom, where the social was held, was crowded. There was a large representation of other congregations, and on the platform were Mr A. B lair (the oldest elder of tho church), the Yen. Archdeacon Harper, the Her. Messrs Dickson, Mackie, Morrison, Woodward, Burgess, and Todd, the elders and deacons of Trinity Church, and the guest tf the opening, the tier. W. Gillies. The Lev. hather Tubman, and Eevs. Buttle, Lawrie, and Barclay sent apologies. The Kev. Mr Morrison, Moderator of the Timaru Presbytery, said that there were feelings of the deepest melancholy that night in the minds of many at this gathering, and he spoke with fealings of very deep regret indeed. He felt that it was not a mere formality, but that they were parting with a very trusted friend and worthy counsellor ; one who was in every sense of the word a man. Mrs Gillies must also bo remembered, particularly by members of the Presbytery, who had often experienced her kindness and hospitality. That the faithful work of Mr Gillies was appreciated the large gathering was an eloquent token. Mr Gillies had taken a fearless stand on questions of social reform, and even bis opponents respected his honesty of aim and fairness of attack, never hitting below the belt. He was a leader in the Assembly, and a man that would be a leader in any profession that he took up. He was a power for righteousness, not only in his congregation and in Timaru, but throughout the whole country his name was known and respected for his thorough manliness of character. (Applause.) Brief addresses were delivered by Mr McNab, Mr J. Lane, Yen. Archdeacon Harper, and Kevs. Burgess, Woodward, and Dicksou. The Kev. \V. Gillies feelingly replied, acknowledging the great support and assistance ho had received from his office bearers, the Sunday School teachers, and the choir. He trusted to hear of the future success of the congregation and that God would bless them and their families. During the evening Mr Gillies was presented with a purse of sovereigns and a photograph of the choir, and Mrs Gillies with a beautiful gold watch and chain.