Gisborne

New Zealand Tablet, 3 April 1919, Page 43

Gisborne

(From our own correspondent.) 1 ■ March 21. There was a large audience at the Opera House on the occasion of the national entertainment in celebration of St. Patrick’s Day. The first part of the ‘programme consisted of the screening of a variety, of picture films. In the subsequent musical portion songs were contributed by Miss Eileen Keaney .and Mr. L. Dew, an Irish jig was danced by the Misses Keaney, and a sailor’s hornpipe by Miss Gladys Newry. On Sunday, March 16, the members of the local branch (St. Patrick’s) of the Hibernian Society approached the Holy Table at St. Mary’s Church, in honor of the feast of St. Patrick, Apostle of Ireland. The numerical strength of the branch has been greatly reduced owing primarily to the war, and a visit from the district officers might be the means of infusing new life and interest in the branch. Sunday, March 16, was observed with special solemnity in anticipation of the feast of St. Patrick, and although the weather was wet and stormy there were large congregations at both of the Masses and at evening devotions. The Shrine of St. Patrick was tastefully adorned with flowers and foliage, the effect being very pleasing, especially when illuminated in the evening. A fine panegyric on the Apostle of Ireland was preached by Father Lane at the evening devotions. Procession and Benediction of the Blessed Sacrament then took place, followed by the congregational singing of the hymns “O, Glorious St. Patrick,” and “Faith of Our Fathers.” ~