CHURCH JUBILEE.

Star (Christchurch), Issue 17183, 29 October 1923, Page 6

CHURCH JUBILEE.

ST MARY’S, HALSWELL. The diamond jubilee of St. Mary’s I Church, Halswell (1863-1923) was cele- ; bra ted yesterday. In the morning a confirmation service took place, fifteen . candidates presenting themselves. The ceremony was performed by Archbishop Julius, assisted by the Rev F. Brittan, ! who was associated with the parish • sixty years ago, and the present vicar the Rev C. C- Oldham. In an eloquent address the Archbishop exhorted the j young people who had just taken the 'j vow to walk the path of life accordingi ly. He also spoke of the beautiful | surroundings of the ©ld church, which i was one of the prettiest in the diocese j Holy Communion followed, and was administered by the Archbishop and ! the Rev F. Brittan. There were fiftyI five, communicants. Many old identities i from near nnd far were present at the j service. Some of them had not been at the church since its foundation in 1863. During that long spare of time i many of the church’s most devout supi porters had been laid to rest in the churchyard adjoining. The church, which was prettily decorated with arum lilies, white heather and other foliage, was filled to overflowing. Appropriate music was supplied by the choir, who were augmented by the Spreydon boys’ surplice choir. At 7 p.m. the Rev H. Williams, of Opawa, a. former vicar, took the service, au.d delivered an able sermon. The church was again Crowded. MiBaker presided at the organ. In connection with the jubilee a conversazione is to be held in the public hall to-morrow night.