DIOCESE OP CHRISTCHURCH

New Zealand Tablet, 15 April 1920, Page 22

DIOCESE OP CHRISTCHURCH

(From our own correspondent.) April 12. Very Rev. Dr. Kennedy, Adm., is at present in the North Island. Rev. Father Skinner, Auckland, paid a visit to Christchurch during the week. Rev. Father O’Brien, C.SS.R., arrived during the week for the purpose of giving a retreat to the convent school children. He is the guest of his Lordship . the Bishop, and preached at the Cathedral on Sunday evening. . There \yas a large attendance of members and visitors at the recent quarterly meeting of St. Mary’s branch of the H.A.C.B. Society. Bro. L. Dobbs, 8.P., presided. Accounts amounting to £ls IGs were passed for payment. Bro. Johnston (secretary) notified the early completion of the branch’s roll of honor, and the decision of the committee to have the unveiling ceremony at an early date. j Ho also, on behalf of the branch, welcomed to the meeting the members who had returned from active service. Very Rev. Dean Regnault briefly addressed the meeting, congratulating the members on their attendance in such large numbers. At the conclusion of the business an enjoyable smoke social was held, guests being present representing St. Patrick’s branch. The very inclement weather which set in here on Friday rendered it impossible to hold the sports on the intended date (Saturday, April 10) in connection with the Irish national festival. This was unfortunate, as with over 500 entries from all over New Zealand, a very fine programme was looked forward to. Besides the various trophies already mentioned, the Mayor (Dr. Thacker) has presented a cup and four medals for the footballers’ relay race. The cup is to be known as the “Mayoress Cup.” At a meeting held in the Hibernian Hall on Saturday afternoon, at which many of the visiting athletes were present, the committee decided to guarantee board, and i lodging for those remaining in Christchurch. until Saturday next, when it is hoped to hold the meeting. For those who were compelled to return to their homes and i likely to return, their travelling expenses would be met. This sporting offer was warmly appreciated, and manifests the keenness of the officials to have the best possible contests held, so that the public generally shall: be well catered for. Mr. Hassall, of Timaru, secretary to the South Canterbury Athletic Association, has arranged the handicaps. Mr. Hassall’s explanations, embodied in a lecturette given at a meeting of the local committee, on the various aspects of this class of sport were a treat to listen to. A hearty vote of thanks was accorded him, and it is hoped he will be able to be present at Lancaster Park on Saturday next.