A SHORT HISTORY

New Zealand Tablet, Volume XXVI, Issue 23, 13 October 1898, Page 27

A SHORT HISTORY

of the pariah. The old church was opened in Jane, 1861 and continued from that day to this to serve its useful purpose. For several years the increase of population rendered necessary a larger edifice. While he (the Bishop) was in charge he had begun the nucleus of a sum for that purpose. Thanki to the excellent Hibernian Society, three successive St. Patrick's Day celebrations had added to this fund something 1 over £200. Father Kehoe had collected another £100, the whole resulting in this beautiful church I comparatively free of debt, in which this morning we have assem-

bled to praise and glorify Almighty God. My heart has been always with Parnell, said his Lordship. As your pastor I rejoiced over your advancement, and now as your Bishop I further rejoice thereat, and tender to your good zealous priest Father Kehoe and to yourselves my blessing and heartfelt congratulations. The parish choir was augmented by a number of ladies and gentlemen from the Cathedral choir; and Millard's melodious Mass was most effectively rendered under the baton of Mr. P. F. Hiscocks. The soloists were: Sopranos, Misses Coleta Lorrigan and T. Hargreaves ; altos, Mrs. Hiscocks and Miss Lonergan ; tenor, Mons. Oasier ; bass, Messrs. Parrish and Lonergan. Miss Richards and Mr. Tapper alternately presided at the organ. A goodly sum resulted from the collection at the close of the ceremonies. A significant incident worthy of notice is the fact that the Very Rev. Father O'Reilly, celebrant, was in the sanctuary on the openingiday in 1861, au altar boy carrying the thurible. la the evening Rosary and Benediction were given by Father O'Reilly, and an instructive and beautiful sermon was delivered by the Very Rev. Dr. Egan, 0.5.8. The main altar was profusely decorated and bore evidence of great taste and labour. On. the leftside of the sanctuary there is a fine mortuary altar dedicated to our Lady, the gift of the Waters family, and bearing the inscription, ' Miseremini Mei.' Upon the side is a companion purgatorium altar, upon which the names of deceased parishioners may be inscribed. In the centre of the church, at opposite walls, there are two small oratories. There are several stained glass windows, while the walls and ceiling are painted in light and cheery colours, all combining to add a most devotional and enhancing aspect. The church of St. John's is one of which the Catholics of the city generally may justly feel proud.