The Presbyterian Church.

Temuka Leader, Issue 3813, 2 November 1901, Page 1

The Presbyterian Church.

The Northern Presbyterian Synod held its litml meeting at Dunedin ou i hnesduy, Clu; act of union being adopted by' the Assembly. Tho Northern Presbyterian Assembly and the Synod of Otago and Southland having concluded their business on Thursday, tiie consummation of tho Union to o; plao ■ in the evening. The An runt It ura I Hall was crowded. Tiie members uf tiie Synod occupied tho stage, the leading members being at tho front, whilst at the hack were the massed choirs. The ministers, their wives, and friends, occupied seats immediately opposite those occupied by ministers and elders of the uniting church. Tiie Aloilerators of the Assembly aud Synod severally constituted their bodies, alter which the members of both Assemblies appointed Dr Sidey, of Napier, interim clerk. Ho laid oa the table documents relating to the Union. Ou the motion of the Rev 'V. Will, seconded by the Rev. Dr Sidey, the Uniting Act was adopted. The Rev. J. K, Elliot announced the accomplishment of the Union, and in token thereof the two Moderators exchanged hand grips. This was followed by the singing of the “ Hallelujah Chorus.” The Rev. Mr Elliot then constituted tho United Assembly. Tho Rev. James Gibb was elected moderator. Robed iu the Aloderatoi’srobes which had been presented to him last week, the Moderator theu gave an address of an hour’s duration ou tho duty of the United Church to preach Christ, to readjust the policy' aud doctrine of the Church, and bring it into conformity with the present age. The ultimate ideal should be the federation of all the Churches. lie appealed to the members to personally consecrate themselves to the service of tho United Church. Ho resumed his seat amidst prolonged applause. The proceedings terminated with a resolution of thanksgiving moved by Dr Erwin and seconded by Mr D Borrie. The whole proceedings were marked by a solemnity and feeling worthy of tiie historic occasion.