METHODIST CONFERENCE

Timaru Herald, Volume XIIC, Issue 13490, 11 January 1908, Page 5

METHODIST CONFERENCE

Per Press Association. DUXKDIN, Jan. 10. At the Primitive Methodise Conference the retiring president, (he Rev. 0. 'Ward, gave, an eloquent address oh ideals of church. He referred to the arrival o! Rev. .A. Harding and of Rev. J. Flame gim; gave much valuable historical information both of the church and dominion. His words on the early settlers and preachers evoked great enthusiasm. It was decided to print the address in (he church mper. The debate on union was introduced by Mr G. Froggatr, Invereargill. who moved a, resolution that the time is opportune for the conference to take stops so that all members of (he church of six mouths standing have an opportunity of voting on the quesfiion. The resolution was seconded by Mr W. King. Dunedin. Mr C. E. Bellinger moved an amendment —"That we reaffirm the desire of union witli (lie Methodist Union of XV-\v Zealand on such basis as may be reasonable, bv mutual concessions and compromises ; at (he same time -we are of opinion that to endeavour at the present tune to formulate a basis that will meet acceptance and consummae the full and happy union would be futile; until the day arrives: when it sliould be possible for the two churches to discuss the maiter untrammelled by Australian influences and to unite in forming a Methodist Church for the Dominion enjoying' complete self-government and thus prepare for the union of evangelical churches in a -National Church, and, further, in view of all circumstances more especially (lie centenary effort" now being made. it would be unwise to disturb our people bv submitting (he question of union tn them at the present juncture." Mr Goldie seconded the amendment in a. vigorous speech. After Mr Golrlie's remarks the closure was applied and the amendment was parried by 59 to 13.