MELANESIAN MISSION.

Star (Christchurch), Issue 16496, 5 August 1921, Page 7

MELANESIAN MISSION.

INSUFFICIENT FUNDS. MAY HAVE TO BE DROPPED. (Per Press Association.) WELLINGTON, August 5. The New Zealand Anglican Board of Missions, now in session, is faced with the serious problem as to whether or not; it can carry on that important branch of its work known as the Melanesian Mission, founded by Bisho]> Selwyn. The problem finds its origin in the high price of stores during and since the war, extensive repairs to the Southern Cross, and the great financial loss of nearly £IOOO, incurred by the calamitous outbreak of influenza on the autumn voyage of 1920, which necessitated another trip being made by the boat. The ordinary funds of the board are totally inadequate to meet these abnormal demands, and before the Southern Cross can be dispatched on her regular September trip, it is absolutely necessary to raise £SOOO to wipe out the liabilities caused by the purchase of stores required by the mission stations, teachers and boys. The Melanesian Mission has always been recognised as New Zealand’s special responsibility, and the board asks those interested to endeavour to complete the appeal now being made, by September 15.