BIBLE CHRISTIAN CHURCH.

Star (Christchurch), Issue 6541, 9 May 1889, Page 2

BIBLE CHRISTIAN CHURCH.

Lower High Str«^B The anticipations respectiD^^^^Lew building of this cburch whicM^^^^K(} c at the time of laying the foundsH|^^K ne are likely to be more than, realiaed^^Bhe commodious church which . will be/ufiSa.* for divine worship on Sunday h ad-B mirably suited to the requirements of tha\ congregation, and is a credit to all concerned in it. The building is situated at the comer of High and William streets, and measures 60ft x 33ft in the clear. If was designed by Mr T. H. Smeaton, whe provided in his plans for the various requirements of a church of the size by giving height, light, and ventilation. The building faces North and South, and nearly adjoins the residence of the minister, the Eev J. Orchard, while the building hitherto used as a church in on the South Bide, and will be used in the future as a Sunday School-room. There is seating accommodation for nearly 400 persons, a gallery at one end providing for a con? siderable number. There, are twenty windows in the building, which, with tko exception of the Kast wall ia built of wood, that one being of brick" ) to comply with the town rogula* tions. The roof is of corrugated iron and the whole interior of the building is plastered, rendering the acoustic properties excellent. The windows are the usual lead lights, but the glazing is a novelty, this church being the first that has used the new frosted tint plase. The effect of these tints is very pleasiug indeed, and Bubdues the light very effectively. There is a tower at the North or High street end, which can be used as a belfry, if needed, though no bell has as yet been provided for it. On the occasion of the foundation stone being laid the Eev J. Orchard made the remark that he should decline to preach i» the building till it was free from debt, and though it has cost, including everythiug> aver J6700, it is satisfactory to know that

Ihe reverend gentleman's wish has been gratified, and he is announced to preach at hemorningandeveningeerviceaonSunday, lie Key E. Erwin, M.A., of tbe Norbh belt ?reebyterian Church, relieving him in the .fternoon. The money haa been raised by olnntary contributions, and a BaHo of cork haa already been held. Tbe congre;ation haa been most liberal, and a coniderable amount of assistance has come rom outside. Extra seating has had to be applied, and the floqr haa been made on n incline for the comfort of the congrcgalon. '