Methven—Rakaia

New Zealand Tablet, 19 October 1916, Page 22

Methven— Rakaia

(From an occasional correspondent.) The congregations in Methven and Kakaia were again favored this year by a mission preached by Rev. Father D. T. Mangan, C.SS.R. The mission lasted altogether a fortnight, from September 24 to October 8, and the attendances throughout, both at the morning Masses and evening devotions, surpassed those of any previous occasion. Father Mangan, at the outset, won the esteem of all, especially of the younger members of the flock, who will long remember his eloquent expositions of .Catholic doctrine and his practical instructions. Close on 500 confessions were heard during the fortnight. Large numbers approached Holy Communion daily, ' and the final general Communions in both churches were wonderful demonstrations of faith. Vi. special service for the children was held each afternoon, and this was attended not only by those of our own schools, but also by those from the outlying districts attending State schools. Rev. Dr. Kennedy, at the close of the mission, expressed the thanks of the parishioners to Father Mangan, whose name, he 'said, would be inscribed on the parish roll of honor as one of its chief benefactors- Special reference was made to the Sisters, who were responsible for the care of the -altars, the singing, and the instruction of the children.