Y.M.C.A.

Wairarapa Daily Times, Volume LIX, Issue 9934, 3 August 1908, Page 5

V.M.C.A.

YESTERDAY AFTERNOON'S

PROGRAMME

The Maori Entertainers from Rofcorua were the guests of the Mastertou Y.M.O.A. yesterday aftnruoon and evening. At half-past four a short service was held in St. Matthew's Schoolroom, and was well attended. The opening hymn was "From Greenland's Icy Mountains," in the singing of which all present joined, after which Rev. H. Watson, vicar, led in prayer. The choir of Maoris sang a hymn in tneir native tongue. Rev. Mr Watson, in a short, interesting address, appealed Coy aid to mission work, which, like charity, shuuld begin at home, but should not cease there, but spread in ever-widening circles. "Come Unto Me, All Ye That are Weary," was sung by the Maori male quartette. Rev. F. A. Bennett, in the course of an address, strongly exhorted his hearers—members of the Y.M.O.A. in particular— to use every effort to save the Maoris from the evils, such as drink and gambling, that had followed in the train of pakeha civilisation. An adjournment being made to the Y.M.O.A. social hall, about eighty seats at the "Strangers' Tea" tables were occupied, with Mr J. Hunter as chairman. A number of the visiting Maoris gave interesting siDeeches— some in their native language, being interpreted by Mr Bennett—and others in English. Mrs T. Te Tau and Rev. Mr Bennett spoke in terms of high appreciation of the Y:M.G.A's hospitality, Mr A. Rees replying, as secretary of the institution.