VALEDICTORY TO FATHER PHELAN, MASTERTON.

New Zealand Tablet, 11 March 1920, Page 29

VALEDICTORY TO FATHER PHELAN, MASTERTON.

There was a most enthusiastic - gathering of the Masterin' Catholic community at St. Patrick’s Assembly Hall last night (says the Wairarapa Daily Times of February 27), on the occasion of a farewell social by the parishioners to the Rev. Father Phelan. On behalf of the subscribers throughout the Masterton parish, Mr: Simon O’Regan presented Father Phelan with a beautifully-bound black morocco wallet, containing approximately £65. ' Mr. O’Regan, in a neat little speech, testified to the popularity of the departing priest, and referred to the pleasure 'of his old parishioners in the knowledge of Father Phelan’s promotion to the pastorate of Carterton. ’ During the period of the epidemic Father Phelan was a chaplain at the Featherston Camp, and Mr. O’Regan spoke of his untiring efforts and excellent work during that unfortuhate time. In acknowledging the gift, Father Phelan deprecated the flattering remarks made about him, but stated the pleasure it gave him to know that his efforts had been appreciated. He parted with his many Masterton friends with regret, bowing to his ecclesiastical superiors’ orders. After an enjoyable euchre tournament, the evening was pleasantly spent in other socialities, Mesdames Eastwood ami AV. J. O’Dwyer and Miss G. Donovan supplying the music for tho occasion.