S. Matthew's, Hastings.

Waiapu Church Gazette, Volume V, Issue 2, 1 August 1914, Page 21

S. Matthew's, Hastings.

Vicar: Rev. J. B. BrochMmrst. Last month you all said good bye to Mr Riobertshawe. He, lam sure, was more than delighted not only with the gifts; but also with the spirit of the farewell. "When I met him m Wellington, the first thing he began to speak about was your kindness and your generosity— in fact I thought he was never going to stop talking about it, and had to suggest "we now get to business." I do not know who was responsible for suggesting the various gifts, but I am sure no better selection could have been made. For the benefit of those who were not there, I will iust mention themi. From the Parish — a gold English lever watch, with a purse of sovereigns ; from the,,G.F.S. —a solid leather suit case : Mothers' Union— travelling rug with strap ; Sunday School— kit bag for robes ; Bible Class — a shaving outfit. Added to these he received a present from 1 the children of Trinton! School, so that he seems to have gone away laden with good tb * ngs . Amid the mr> ny things he ref-eivnci I notice one omission — slippers. It is usually thought that curates have thteir cupboards full of -worked, slippers. We wont mention who they are supposed tpi b$ worked by, but ti^e fact remains

he left without a single pair. What a pity some one did not think of it. Mr Eipbertshawe's last words to me are words you will all like to hear, for they were full of expression, " I shall never forget my first parish." 1 hope we shall never forget him. I regfet to say that at present I have no one coming to take his place which means that a certain proportion of the work, mainly visiting, will only be half done. The Schools, organisations, weekly services, must be kept going> whilst the sick and needy must have first claims on my visits. Will you bear this m mind, and ; not say, " I haven't seen the Vicar for three years." If you want him>— well you can always find him. I am glad to say how much I enjoyed my holiday, and more than all, to acknowledge the good it did 'me. I have- come back feeling refreshed, and fit for anything. My best thanks are due to the Vestry for granting me an extra month's holidaj'. Confirmation— The Bishop has arranged to hold a Confirmation m Hastings on November 23rd. All intending to be confirmed should hand m their names as soon as possible.