” As thy days, so shall thy strength be.”—Deut. xxxiii. 25.
Our motto for 1889 is the divine assurance, given of old to the tribe of Asshur, and still the heritage of God’s people.
The Christmas Decorations, both at Christ Church and Meaford have been deservedly admired, and the thanks of all are due to those ladies who worked so hard and successfully to represent the thoughts and joys of Christmas.
The Watch Night Service was very well attended. After shortened Evening Prayer, the litany, ” Father from Thy throne on high,” was sung kneeling, and the Vicar then sought to guide the thoughts of those present on the subject of God’s mercies, and their relations to Him in the past, and to humble resolves of renewed devotion in the New Year. At 12 o’clock, the Te Deum and ” O God our help in ages past” were sung, and the interesting and solemn Service closed with the Benediction.
On New Year’s Day, by the kind help of many friends, the Mothers’ Meeting had their annual tea in the large School-room ; it was a pleasing sight to see how the members had increased during the past year ; about 110 were present. Useful and helpful addresses were given by Dr. Fernie and Mr. Bishop. The mothers warmly applauded the vote of thanks, proposed by the Vicar, to the subscribers and helpers.
On January 2nd, the Parochial Tea was held in the Schools, and though we did not number so many as on former occasions, the evening’s enjoyment was in no way inferior. After a short address on matters relating to the Church, a varied musical programme afforded delight to all present. The statement is given below.
On January 4th, the Stonefield Children’s Mission had their annual Tea, followed by a Magic Lantern Entertainment, exhibited by Mr. Frank Fernie, and it is needless to add, the boisterous youngsters appreciated the good things provided. Again we are indebted to the generosity of friends, and the kindness of the ladies who collected.
Yet another Tea on January 10th, when the Young Women’s Bible Class, at their own charges, met for their annual social evening. After tea, they spent a very enjoyable evening in the usual merry games, interspersed with music and recitations, and brought to a close by a few words of counsel from the Vicar, with singing and prayer.
Our monthly Meeting of the Parochial Branch of the Church of England Temperance Society held on Monday, January 7th, passed off well. We were ably helped by many kind friends, who gave their services in a programme consisting of readings and music. The branch is making steady progress, and is in a healthy state. The next meeting is fixed for Monday, January 28th 1889