Presbyterian Assembly.

Ashburton Guardian, Volume X, Issue 2304, 12 February 1891, Page 2

Presbyterian Assembly.

[per press association, )

Cheistchukch, February 11. ' Rev J. Pafcerson m the absence of Mr McKerrow, convener, read the report of the Church Property Trustees, The report gratefully stated that a bequest had been left by Mr J. Plumpin to the Public Trustee m trust for the Widows' and Orphans' funds of the Presbyterian and Wesleyan Methodist Churches of New Zealand m equal portions. The will allows the Public Trustee to sell the laud and divide the proceeds when he thinks fit, but the Assembly considered it advisable that the sale of the property should be postponed, xieference was made to the gift of 20 acres for a manse m the McKenzie country, by Mr David McLean, of Strathconan. Rev G. B. Monro gave m the report of the Committee on the State of Religion and Morals. Its adoption was moved by Rev J. K. .Elliott, who called special attention to the totalisator, and encouraged ministers to urge the people to return men of moral character as M.H.R's. J. G. W. Aitken seconded the motion, and pointed out the need of the younsj being instructed us to the true path of pleasure. Churches, he said, could not complain of the totalisator so long as sales by chance take place at church bazaars. Keep tellinga lie as the truth, and it will be accepted at last. He advised that m each city there should be a Committee to receive strange young men. Rev J. Maxwell pointed out the need and advantage of open air services, a practice now common m connection with the Presbyterian Church of England. Rev W. VVest supported the motion, dwelling on the necessity of reaching and changing thfe hearh if good is to be done. Mr Osbonie objected to the clause m the report on Sunday trains. Rev A. Irwin suggested the need of ministers doling with the doubts of young .men. Rev R. Mackinney wished to know honr ministers knew about gambling. Mr Hunter invited ministers to deal very earnestly with young people coming to communion for the first time, and to find work for them m connection with the church. Rev W. Gillies called attention to the evil of young men being kept at work late on Saturday evenings. The report of the Temperance Committee was read by Rev jJ. K. Elliott. Rev J. Treadwell, m an able and eloquent speech, moved its (adoption. Rev Mr McAra seconded the motion, which was carried.