A Solemn Intercession.

Waiapu Church Gazette, Volume VI, Issue 4, 1 October 1915, Page 45

A Solemn Intercession.

In accordance with ancient custom m time of war and trouble, aSolemn Service of Intercession was held on Wednesday evening during , Synod. For the first time m Napier the Litany was sung m solemn procession — this was the purpose for which it was originally composed — and after hearing and seeing and above all taking part m this wonderful service we shall not be satisfied until we get the Litany restored to its original use. The procession formed up at the Vestry and approached the Chancel. The Bishop and Cathedral dignitaries then advanced to the Sanctuary, and the procession was started and bidden to "go forth m the name of the Lord," First came the Cross bearer (Mr H. A. King) carrying a large and beautiful Cross, presented by the C.X.M.S. Following him were members of the C.B.M.S. m their ordinary dress, then the Verger and the male mtembers of the Choir. Then followed six cantors and the rest of the Diocesan clergy, then the Cathedral' dignitaries, the Bishop's chaplain, carrying Episcopal Staff, and finally the Bishop. The cantors chanted the Litany and the responses were given by the rest of the worshippers. As the procession marched through the streets it was received with marked reverence b) T crowds of people on both sides. The procession reached the band rotunda on the Marine Parade just at the right moment and the prayers which conclnde the Litany were said there. Then followed a hymn (095) after which the Intercessions for those at the war and those who have died on active service were read by Canon Mayne. The Bishop preached an able sermon m which he expressed the loyalty of the Church to the Empire fighting m a holy cause. He spoke of the resolutions carried m Synod m the interests of temperance and condemned the proposed relaxation m the Gaming and Lotteries' Act. He appealed for nobility and generosity m giving towards the patriotic funds, deprecating methods of raising money off a doubtful character, and begged that when our boys come

back they may not be dragged down by temptations provided by those who stayed behind.. After the singing of the National Anthem, the procession reformed and marched back to the Cathedral singing hymn 165.. The procession was dismissed m the usual way. The service was deeply impressive and many of the clergy and laity have asked to have a proper processional Litany at every Synod time and on other suitable occasions.