EXCHANGE MINISTERS

Timaru Herald, Volume CXLIII, Issue 20928, 6 January 1938, Page 6

EXCHANGE MINISTERS

INITIATION OF SCHEME By Telegraph—Press Association WELLINGTON, January 5. Referring to the necessity for closjr co-operation between New Zealand and Australia in an address to his congregation, the Rev. J. R. Blanchard, St. John’s Church, expressed the opinion that the church could make a valuable contribution to a closer understanding between the two countries by arranging for a more frequent exchange of preachers. He intimated that his office-bearers had made it possible for him to take action in that direction, with the result that the Rev. D. P. Macdonald, Mosman Presbyterian Church, Sydney, had accepted his invitation to occupy St. John’s pulpit from January 26 to Feb’ ruary 6. Mr Macdonald was born in London, but he received his early education in Sydney and his theological training in Glasgow. His first charge was Loch Fyneside, near Inverary, where he found time to cultivate and develop his literary talent. It was there that his first noval, ‘‘Nicholas Simon,” was written. Returning to Australia in 1913, he became minister of the Mosman Church in 1915. As a padre, he saw active service with the 2nd Division Artillery from 1916 to 1919. Under Mr Macdonald’s ministry, the Mosman Church has developed into one of the most influential charges in the Presbyterian Church in New South Wales. His sermons are distinguished by their literary grace, their human interest, and their wide appeal. “I am most happy on the thought that, during my absence on holiday, Wellington is to enjoy the ministry of this most eloquent and gifted preacher,” said Mr Blanchard.