STRANGE CHURCH SERVICE.

Star (Christchurch), Issue 17410, 12 December 1924, Page 11 (Supplement)

STRANGE CHURCH SERVICE.

BEAT OF TOM-TOMS. XEW YORK, November 24. Once again the Rev AA illiam Guthrie, rector ot St Alark’s, in the Bouweric, is the centre of the limelight because of a strange form of worship he lias introduced into hi* church. Air Guthrie came into conflict with Bishop Alanning. who is in charge of the diocese, because lie persisted in hold ng ritual dances in the churcH. Eventually he was forbidden to do so. Now the rector is using Indians in his services. AA'itli the altar unveiled, two Indians lead the congregation in prayers, while lights arc flashed rhythmically through heavy incense. The intermittent beat of tom-toms (native drums) heightens tba alread\eohjurful service, as tiie congregation follows the intoning voices of the Indians. Before the service began the pastor warned the congregation to keep perfectly quiet in order not to disturb the “spiritual mood.” Bishop Alarming dej’iuod to comment on the new service. “ I would have held the service even if the bishop had disapproved,” said Air Guthrie. “1 an: creating beauty. Those who oppose mj* programme would understand if they studied it.”