PRESENTATION TO THE REV. FATHER CASSIDY.

Taranaki Herald, Volume XXXVIII, Issue 8573, 10 September 1889, Page 2

PRESENTATION TO THE REV. FATHER CASSIDY.

On Sunday last, after Vespers, Mr Hart read the following address to Rev. Father Caaaidy, who is leaving this diocese for Grafton, N.S.W. :— Beyerend and Deab Fathbb, — It is •with feelings of the most unfeigned sorrow that we, the undersigned, on behalf of the Catholics of New Plymouth, approach yon in order to express our deep and heartfelt regret at your departure from amongst us; During your stay in our midst we have seen you labouring indefati^ably and zealously for the spiritual and temporal welfare of your flock, yonr unremitting attention to those committed to your care, the energetio manner in whioh you have always discharged your dutieß as a priest throughout this extensile district, which through inclemency of weather and long journeys was often a trying and laborious task, and your cliaritj and zeal will never be forgotten, while your courtesy and kindness have won the esteem and good opinion of all classes. Nor are we unmindful of the special interest which you have taken in tho education of oar children, as your frequent visits to our excellent schools testify. Your reputation for every virtue which could adorn a priest, has long been established ia the hearts of all olasses and creeds, with whom your name has been a household word — as the typo of goodness, charity, and compassionateaess. Tour unosteatatiouß benevolence and acts of untold kindness and generosity have endeared you to us all. But not only as a priest have you endeared yourself to us. Your ardent lovs of the "Old Land " "and sympathy with the Irish people at home, as evinced by your lectures in aid of the down-trodden, persecuted, and starving people there, prove to us moßt conclusively tnat you are the genuine type of the true " Suggarth Aroon." We would take this opportunity of piaoing on record our most sincere thanks for your latest work in this parish — the erection of our handsome and commodious Presbytery, whioh is an ornament to the town, and another monument of your untiring energy. In conclusion, Deat father, we beg of you to accept the accompanying purse of sovereigns as a slight tribute of oar love and esteem for you; aad we assure you, you shall ever be remembered in our prayers as we hope to be remembered in yours — Signed on behalf of the congregation, James Hart, Sen., James O'Nbill. New Plymouth, August 25, 1889. The address was accompanied with a purse of sovereigns, wtiiob. had beea collected as a parting gift. Mies Grace Sullivan then presented an address from the Living Rosary, and an album oi views ia Taranaki, takes by Mr Collis, photographer, was presented by Mißses Neill and Kooh. Father Uassidy replied in suitable terms, thanking them for their gifts, and the proceedings terminated.