ST BARNABAS CHURCH CONSECRATED.

Star (Christchurch), Issue 18009, 20 November 1926, Page 9

ST BARNABAS CHURCH CONSECRATED.

The memorial church of St Barnabas, Fendalton, was consecrated today by Bishop Wcst-Watson, in the presence of a crowded congregation. The church has one of the most beautiful interiors amongst ecclesiastical buildings in Christchurch, and to-day’s service was in perfect keeping with it. Amongst those present were Dean Carrington, Canon Wilford, Canon Beau. Canon Hamilton, Colonel M. M. Gard’ner, Colonel N. M. Thoms, and Major K. M. Gresson. The Bishop, attended by his chaplain, was received at the principal entrance by the vicar (the Rev 11. S. Leach), the clergy, members of the vestry, and others. A petition, signed by the vicar and the church wardens, was delivered to the Bishop, praying that he should consecrate the church. The Bishop ordered it to be read, and then consented to the consecration of the church.

The Bishop, entering the church, was handed a key. Standing near the west end of the church, he said:— “Enter, O Lord, this House, we beseech Thee, and within the hearts of Thy faithful people establish for Thyself an everlasting habitation: that this church, which is built for Thy glory, may be glorified also by Thine abiding presence; through Jesus Christ our Lord, Amen. Peace be to this House from God our heavenly Father. Peace be to this House from God who is our Peace. Peace be to this House from the Holy Ghost the Comforter.” The Bishop placed the key on the altar. The congregation prayed in silence, asking for a blessing on the church. “Veni Creator Spiritus” was sung, a prayer was offered by the Bishop, the vicar and the churchwardens said the versicles and prayers at the font, the tower and bells, the chancel steps, the lectern, the pulpit, the choir-stalls, the sanctuary steps, and the altar. The holy vessels and the fair linen were presented to the Bishop and were placed by him on the [ altar. Seated in his chair, the Bishop ordered the sentence of consecration to be read by the Chancellor of the Diocese, Mr H. D. Andrews, the people standing. The Bishop signed the sentence and ordered the document to be preserved in the muniments of the diocese. The Bishop then said: "By virtue of our sacred office in the Church of God, we declare this church to be consecrated, under the name of St. Barnabas, to the glory of the everblessed Trinity, Father, Son, and Holy Ghost. Amen. Now unto the King eternal, immortal, invisible, the only wise God, be honour and glory for ever and ever. Amen.” The vicar welcomed the Bishop, the congregation, the clergy and visitors from other parishes, and thanked all who helped to have the church erected. He said that he was proud of the church but was much prouder of the people who made it possible. The building was free, but funds were needed for re-seating it, at a cost of about £SOO. • - , , The Bishop, in his sermon, said that he was grateful for the gracious welcome given to him. It was the first consecration ceremony performed by him in the diocese. lie was pleased to be allowed to join in the great thankfulness of the day. He continued that the past few years had seen a great work greatly accomplished in a great spirit of generosity, zeal, love and faith. The church stood as a memorial of the spirit in the people, as well as of those who gave their lives in the war. There was a certain sadness on an occasion of that nature, as there were hallowed memories connected with the old church; but as the city continued more and more to be built in permanent materials there must be a feeling that in regard to the House of God also there should be used more permanent materials, giving greater stability. There was, however, a perfectness about the wooden churches of New Zealand that attracted and charmed newcomers and made the old buildings unique, and he hoped that their likeness would be preserved in art. The Christian Church itself was symbolic of strength stability and beauty. The old faith still stood firm. He urged those who felt inclined to break away from the Church and to follow new ideas to go back to the historic Christ and baviour. It might be that the Christian Church had tried to live on the experience of the saints in the past, instead of day by day making its own experience. If so it was time for members of the Church to consecrate themselves afresh to Ilis service, in order that they might go back to Him. As you worship in this church. the Bishop said, “ you should worship with a deep sense of the responsibility upon you. As this church is a witness to all who pass, so you should be a witness to God wherever He calls you to serve and work.”