A BRANCH OF THE H. A. CATHOLIC BENEFIT SOCIETY IN OTAHUHU.

New Zealand Tablet, Volume II, Issue 61, 27 June 1874, Page 8

A BRANCH OF THE H. A. CATHOLIC BENEFIT SOCIETY IN OTAHUHU.

Thb H.A.C.B.S. is extending fast in the Province of Auckland. It is refreshing in this age of associations and companies for forwarding commerce and creating wealth, to see an association that provides for assisting its members in cases of sickness, and insists on the moral and religious bearing of those who join it, becoming prominent and active. The H.A.CB.S. can become productive of good in more than in its benevolent operations. It tends to improve the habits of its members aud to prevent them from falling into a state of indifference, with respect to their eternal salvation, in a country where a premium is indirectly offered for being irreligious. If the society purpose, as no doubt it does, to muke men better, more watchful over themselves more kinrt-hearted towards others, and more diligent in securing their own future welfare, it may be truly said that every person eligible for the society ought to join it. The good Catholic people of Utahuku

have considered it in this light' They have •aooeeded ia gettiof m brsnoh opened in the settlement, on the first of the presort monfe The president of the AaoMand branch, Mr Fallon, accompanied by upwards of twenty of its member* came, out to take part in the farmation of the new branoh at Otahuhu. After all the formalities of the doctor's examination aud initiation of members were concluded the parties were entertained at n sumptuous rapper in the Star Hotel' kept by Mr Edward Foley. During the supper, the Hobton band' under the direction oi Mr Christopher, played some excellent rauatf and the whele place was a seen* of merriment and good humour' When supper was ended, teveral toasts were proposed and responded* to : Our Holy Father the Pope, The Queen and Royal Famifr The Executive Directory, The Otahuhu Branch, The Ladies, The Chairman, the Eev. Father O'Hara, coupled with the name of the Rev Father Foyn, the Vice-Olwirraan ; The Land we Live in ; Mr Foley, for the style in which the supper was served. The company then withdrew to the public hall, where they were joined by a large number of the youth of various denominations, who were invited by the Otahutiu members to uuite with them in the festivity of the evening. The night wen beautifully calm and clear 5 the moon shone brightly, and there was an air of happiness and hilarity everywhere. All persons appeared to enjoy themselves to their hearts' content ; and after a most pleasurable evening, returned to their homes highly delighted with the entertainment.