Leeston

New Zealand Tablet, 11 October 1917, Page 28

Leeston

(From our own correspondent.) October 8. Special appeals were made last Sunday on behalf of the centenary celebrations of the foundation of the Order of Marist Brothers. Very Rev. Dean Van Dyk made appeals at the Masses in Leeston and Southbridge on Sunday last on behalf of the Maori Missions, and as a result the sum of £43 was contributed. At a farewell social held in the parish hall on Monday evening, September 24, Privates Stapleton and Greefnan, who were on final leave, were the recipients of valuable and useful presents. The building was filled to overflowing, thus testifying to the popularity of the departing soldiers. Rev. Father Hoare, S.M., who made the presentations, referred to the many good qualities of Privates Stapleton and Greenan, who, he said, were most exemplary Catholics, and he was sure they would prove as good soldiers as they were citizens. Both soldiers feelingly replied. A circular from his Lordship the Bishop, appointing the first Sunday in October as Intercession Sunday was read in the churches of the parish on Sunday last, and in compliance therewith special intercessory services were held. The Blessed Sacrament was exposed from the 11 o'clock Mass, continuous adoration being maintained throughout the day. In the evening Rev. Father Hoare preached on the Holy Rosary. It was most fitting, he said, that the day of national prayer should coincide with the Feast of the Holy Rosary. Great victories had been achieved in former times through the recitation of this most beautiful prayer, and he earnestly exhorted all to appeal to the Mother of God through the Rosary to intercede for an honorable and lasting peace. Benediction of.„ the Most Blessed Sacrament terminated the day's services.