CIVIC RECEPTION

Wanganui Chronicle, 31 October 1946, Page 4

CIVIC RECEPTION

MAYOR VISITS GENERAL ASSEMBLY A civic welcome to the city was extended by the Mayor, Hon. W. J. Rogers, M.L.C., to delegates attending the General Assembly of the Presbyterian Church ot New Zealand. Mr. Rogers visited the assembly in St. Paul's Hall yesterday afternoon and presented the Moderator, the Rt. Rey. H. Davies, with a copy of “Wanganui,” the centennial publication giving the history of city and district. The Mayor was accompanied by the (own clerk, Mr. C. R. White, Mr. Buxton and the Rev. H. W. Austin, representing the Council of Christian Congregations in Wanganui. "The Church has a great responsibility to the community, but that is difficult to carry out unless we have the co-operation of the civic authorities," said the Moderator, welcoming the Mayor. “Your presence is an assurance that we have that co-opera-tion and that you are one with us in trying to improve the community in which we live."

“We are very glad to have you in the city and we thank you for the honour you have conferred on Wanganui in making this city the place for your General Assembly,” said the Mayor. “As we grow older, perhaps, we realise more the importance of spiritual values. At this moment I think of the great John Knox, ‘who fearea not the face of man.' We. need that courage back to-day.” On the motion of the Rev. P. G. Hughes (Wellington), the assembly thanked the Mayor for his welcome. Mr. Buxton subsequent!}' welcomed the delegates on behalf ot the Council of Christian Congregations apd was thanked by the Very Rev. J. L. Robinson (Christchurch).