Wanganui

New Zealand Tablet, 9 August 1917, Page 19

Wanganui

(From our own correspondent.) By a kindly and generous donation by Mrs. O'Neill and family, of Wanganui, St. Mary’s Church has been further adorned by the painting of the interior in a shade corresponding with that of the sanctuary appointments.

The Rev. Father Quinn, S.M., after spending about six months in Wanganui, is proceeding to Greymouth on relieving duty. The people of Wanganui, whilst regretting his departure, hope they may soon be privileged to have him again in their midst.

A farewell social was tendered by Mr. and Mrs. Koorey last week to Private James Cavanagh, son of Mr. M. Cavanagh, Okoia, prior to his leaving for the front with the 29th Reinforcements. Many friends were present, and an enjoyable evening was spent. Mr. Cavanagh’s eldest son is also at the front in France, and has been through most of the engagements, fortunately without injury.

On Monday evening, July 30, a large number of members of the local branch of the Catholic Federation met at the “Villa Maria” for the purpose of inaugurating a Catholic Club. The Very Rev. Father O’Connell, S.M., presided, and in declaring the club open, gave a most instructive and lucid address on the various phases of its projected activity. At no time (he said) did the need exist to a greater extent than now for the study of social questions. A wave of indifferentism threatened them, which could be best overcome by fortifying themselves with a perfect knowledge of their faith. All this would be within the scope of the club, which would be under the direction of the Catholic Federation, and rules for the guidance of the club are to be drafted by the executive of that body. It was resolved to hold meetings fortnightly, and a “question box” is to be placed in the church. Enquiries on ques-

tions of religion or dogma will be answered, and suitable subjects will be debated. : ■ THE BOYS' GUILD. On Saturday, July 28, the guild's, football team defeated College Aby 5 points to 3. Very unfavorable weather conditions obtained, and back play -was impossible. Marists played with three emergencies and one man short. Mutu scored for Marists, P. Hogan converting. Connop, Quirke (2), Tuffiu, Adair, and M. Hogan played well. A number of members of the guild have, joined the recently established study club, and it is hoped all will avail themselves of such an excellent opportunity of learning more regarding their holy faith, and of the prevailing social questions. The attendance at the guild meetings is being well maintained. The first annual meeting is due to be held in September, when it is intended to enter upon a campaign to recruit to its ranks all the boys of the pariah.