DIOCESE OF CHRISTCHURCH.

New Zealand Tablet, Volume XXIX, Issue 18, 2 May 1901, Page 6

DIOCESE OF CHRISTCHURCH.

(From our own correspondent.')

April 29. Mr. 11. H. Lou^hnan was last week re-elected to a seat on the City Municipal Council, representing the South East Ward, a position, together with that of membership of the Hospital Board, he has in the past filled with conspicuous ability and success, A considerable amount of trouble has arisen in Christchuroh in regard to securing a suitable residence for the Royal party during

their stay here. Coker's Hotel was originally fixed upon, but latterly, althongh the house is in itself eminently adapted for the purpose, the ' powers that be ' deem its environment not everything to be desired, hence a projected alteration, much to the disgust of the proprietor. Many private residences have been offered, and it has been almost definitely decided to accept the fine house and grounds of our new Mayor, Mr. A. E. G. Rhodes.

At High Mass and Vespers in the Pro-Cathedral on Sunday his Lordship the Bishop read a Pastoral on the General Jubilee.

The Rev. Dr. Kennedy, v.-ho recently arrived in the Colony and iB destined for the Christcburuh diocese, is at present visiting his relatives on the West Coast.

There was a good attendance of members at the weekly meeting of St. Mary's Catholic Club on last Tuesday evening. ' The editor's box 'formed the programme, the contents of which afforded an entertaining and interesting evening. The minstrel troupe in connection with the club are showing very favorable progress, and are expected to make a first public appearance shortly.

The new building attached to the parochial library, and intended for the Christchurch Catholic Club as a billiard and entertainment room, is rapidly nearing completion, and with the addition of the necessary furniture, will prove in every way suited for the purpose for which it is being erected. His Lordship the Bishop has kindly consented to preside at the opening, which is expected to take place on next Tuesday week.

The Right Rev. Dr. Grimes intends commencing his periodical episcopal visitation of the Westland portion of the diocese about the middle of May. His Lordship purposes journeying to the remotest districts if the conditions render such a hazardous undertaking at all practicable in that region. To show the difficulties that have to be overcome, it takes the parish priest of Ross, when circumstances are favorable, six days each way to come in touch with his scattered flock in the locality indicated.

At Leeston on Wednesday and Southbridge on Thursday evening last entertainments were given by visitors from Christchurch, assisted by local talent, in aid of the Catholic day schools, before large audiences. The duties of hon. secretary were satisfactorily performed by Mr. Frank Holley.