NORTH INVERCARGILL PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH GOLDEN JUBILEE SURVEY

1965

Compiled by: A.H.H. Webster, E.D.,B.A.,Dip.Ed

1 CONTENTS Page Foreword 3 Preface 4 Introduction 6 The First North. Invercargill Presbyterian Church 10 The Second North Invercargill Presbyterian Church 21 North Invercargill - a Church Extension Charge 23 North Invercargill - a Fully Sanctioned, Self-Sustaining Charge 28 The Third North Invercargill Presbyterian Church 31 Rev. Hugh Graham's Ministry 40 Rev. A.D. Robertson's Ministry, Sister Helen Dewar, the Development of Waverley 47 Consolidation and the Team Ministry 60 Office Bearers 73 Statistics 80 Important Dates 84 Ministers of North Invercargill Presbyterian Church 87

ILLUSTRATIONS

The Present North Invercargill Presbyterian Church. 1 The Mission Hall, Dublin Street 8 Rev. John Collie, M.A.  28 Rev. William Tanner  From First to Waverley 42 Before the 1957 Alterations 51 Rev. Hugh Graham  Rev. A.D. Robertson, B.A.  57 Sister Helen Dewar  Rev. R.S. Anderson, B.A.  60 Rev. A.J. Huston, B.A.  The George Street Manse  86 The Catherine Street Manse 

2 FOREWORD At a critical time in their history God's word to His people, ancient Israel, addressed to them through the prophet His choice and recorded in the Book of Isaiah, Chapter 51, is a call to historical reflection. "Hearken to Me you who pursue deliverance, you who seek the Lord; look, to the rock from which you were hewn, and to the quarry from which you were digged. Look to Abraham your father and to Sarah who bore you; for when he was but one I called him, and I. blessed him and made him many.” The Jubilee celebrations in North Church this year have been a timely reminder to us all of what we owe to those through whom the work of the Church was begun in North Invercargill, One hopes that in thus recalling the past and paying tribute .to those who gladly, and we could say eagerly, gave themselves and their possessions, for the service of Christ and His Church, we who are the Church here at North today have been challenged and stimulated. It is important to have the story of this Church, so dear to the hearts of many people, carefully investigated and accurately recorded. The compilation of this booklet has been the responsibility of Mr, A.H.H. Webster. He was well equipped for this task, being himself the "son of a manse", having been headmaster of North School, a member of North Church, with experience in writing booklets of this kind - and with a family willing to assist in the drudgery of research and detailed checking that have been necessary. It is Mr. Webster's patient and thorough search of early records of all kinds that has brought to light the information which it is important to have recorded. We are confident that all who read the booklet will feel that it is just what we wanted, and we wish to acknowledge the debt of gratitude North Church owes to Mr. Webster for the extremely efficient and gracious manner in which he has carried out the task entrusted to him. R.S. Anderson : Minister A.M. Weir : Convener jubilee Committee

3 PREFACE It has been said that "much of history is error perpetrated by one historian and perpetuated by others." Every effort has been made in this survey to avoid errors and to correct those existing. Every effort, too, has been made to fill in such gaps and spaces which seem to be inevitable in records. In spite of this there may still be some errors and omissions and apology is made for any such. There is a wealth of material in the North Presbyterian Church records and the minute books of both Session and Deacons' Court have been very carefully examined. Sundry other minute books have also been inspected. In all about four feet thickness of such books have been considered and notes made. For the early period the St. Paul's authorities, through their Session Clerk, made their Session and Deacons' Court minutes for 1900-1915 available, together with Annual reports for many of the same years. A number of gaps in the records have been filled by reference to the old files of both the Southland Times and the Southland Daily News in the City Library. The staff of the Library were most helpful to both my wife and me when we were searching for details. First Church Centenary booklet by A.J. Deaker was also very informative regarding early details. Thanks are also due to Mrs. N.C. Poole for details of early times; to Mrs. G.E. Mortimer for information regarding the Women's Group, etc.; to Mr. G. Skipworth for taking responsibility for the illustrations; and to the many people whom I have referred to over the telephone and the others who have token the time to read the script. For the statistical information used from time to time the First Church authorities are to be thanked for making available their almost complete files of the General Assembly's Year Books (Blue Books). North Church Annual Financial Statements have also been frequently referred to. Other books referred to include: "The History of the Presbyterian Church of New Zealand" - Dr. J.R. Elder. "Auld Land Syne" - Rev. J. Chisholm. "The Story of the Free Church Settlement in Otago and Southland"- Rev. Professor John Collie. "The Flame Unquenched" - Georgina McDonald.

4 I would like to express my appreciation of the patience and courtesy of Rev. R.S. Anderson and Mr. C.V. Shirley. Both of these gentlemen must have wondered, at times, just when, if ever, this task was going to be completed. Finally the brochure in its printed form owes much to the generous and courteous assistance and advice of Mr. Fenton W. Mark and the staff of Craig Printing Company Ltd. The compiling of a. survey of this nature can be, and often is, difficult and also, at times, frustrating; but it is always interesting. As a comparative newcomer to North Invercargill Presbyterian Church, I accepted the task under something of a handicap and with no little trepidation. However, with the willing assistance of everyone I have approached and the forbearance of my family, I feel that quite a large amount of information - not all by any means -is presented between the covers of this brochure. I trust that it may give to its readers something of the interest its compilation has given me. A.H.H. WEBSTER

5 INTRODUCTION

"And I said to the man who stood at the gate of the year: ‘Give me a light that I may tread safely into the mown.’ And he replied:

‘Go out into the darkness and put your hand into the hand God. That shall be to you better than light and safer in a known way'"

"God Knows" M.L. Haskins

On the occasion of a jubilee there is opportunity to look back along the vista of the years and to survey the milestones and the landmarks which line the way. Such reflections cannot but strengthen the realisation of the debts owed to those o have gone before and, in their time, borne the heat and burden of the day. All through the years, through the trials and the tribulations, through the challenges and the achievements, the hand of God can be seen exercising an overall guidance. There is much to be thankful for, much which provides us with a challenge for the future; but with God's help will continue to build on the foundations so well and truly laid in the paste

A hundred and thirty years ago Captain John Howell sailed south from Waikouaiti searching on behalf of Johnny Jones, his employer, for a site for a shore whaling station. His search ended when he discovered the sheltered estuary of the Aparima, and the settlement he founded there was the birth of Jacob's River, now Riverton. A somewhat similar settlement, due to the whaling industry, had developed on Stewart Island. These two settlements were, for the first few years, the only white communities in this, the southernmost, part of New Zealand, until the 'Murihiku Purchase' in 1853 whereby the government bought, from the Maoris the whole of the southern part of New Zealand, with the exception of some native reserves, to be included in the Province of Otago. Up till this time there was little organisation in connection with either the educational or spiritual needs of the pioneers, but as trade is said to follow the flag, so Bishop Selwyn, in 1844, and the Rev. James Watkin, of the Wesleyan Church, a few months later, made exploratory tours and held services. It would appear, however, that, as remarked by Rev. W.F. Evans, 'during the formative years, education and religion must of necessity be confined to the effects of the home.’

6 Early in 1856 Colonel Thomas Gore-Browne, the Governor of the time, on the occasion of an official visit to Dunedin, suggested 'Invercargill' as a name for the capital of the largely unexplored southern area, and it was not long before John Turnbull Thomson, Chief Surveyor and Engineer for Otago, had selected, surveyed and laid out the site on which the city now stands. The dense bush, the swampy nature of the land and the many creeks must have caused some doubts as to the wisdom of this choice, but subsequent developments over the years have justified the decision. While all this was in train Rev, William Bannerman, of the Tokomairiro and Clutha charge, arrived on foot on a first visit. His parish was the whole of the Province of Otago south of Waihola. The whole of this arduous ninety mile journey was undertaken to keep in some sort of touch with the scattered communities under his care. However, the task was almost, if not altogether, humanly impossible and the arrival of Rev. Alexander Bethune, a few months later seemed an instance of Divine providence. Mr. Bethune, who had trained for the ministry but had not been ordained, came to New Zealand with the intention of taking up land and had decided to settle at Myross Bush. He is credited with having conducted the first religious service according to Presbyterian form in Invercargill. Later he presided over a public meeting to organize a congregation, and, until the arrival of Rev. A.H. Stobo, Mr. Bethune walked from Myross Bush each Sunday to conduct Divine worship in Invercargill. With Rev. Stobo's arrival in 1860, First Church was really started and in the following year the records show that a Mission and Deacons' Court were duly constituted. The young .town was growing in a somewhat scattered way. In 1864 the First Church Session appointed Rev. Bethune to pioneer a second church, and in this capacity he appears to have acted as a missionary to the northern part of the town, and, later still, he was the first minister of what is now St. Stephen's, Waikiwi, from 1869 to 1887. As the result of Rev. Bethune’s missionary activities in the north of the town, a very scattered and not very populous part, it was decided, in 1875 to form a new or second parish to meet the convenience of residents in those parts. It must have been something of an undertaking for church people in Collingwood, Gladstone and North Invercargill areas to have to walk to Tay Street to attend church services. Their faith must have been strong and their physical condition likewise to combat the elements and the roadways and footpaths of that time.

7 Thus, in 1875, Second Church, or, as it became, St. Paul's came into being an offshoot of First Church. No so far distant but definitely in St. Paul's parish boundaries lay the North Invercargill area and this was quite a distance from the new church considering the transport facilities and roadways of the times to say nothing of the Southland climate. So it is not surprising that from this time North Invercargill seems to have been a definite item in the discussions of all those interested in the spiritual development of the Presbyterians of Invercargill At first the situation seems to have been catered for by North Invercargill being part of the St. Paul's parish and this period seems to have extended over some twenty five years until the turn of the century.

The Mission Hall, Dublin Street

The actual course of happenings at North Invercargill during this time is somewhat obscured in the mists of history, but some general outlines appear to be probable. It would appear that some time in the seventies a hall was erected in Dublin Street by the ratepayers of North Invercargill. This hall was to be used as a meeting house or undenominational mission hall. The Methodists, Presbyterians and Salvation Army, according to St. Paul's Session minutes, all seem to have been interested in and to have shared its use, to the extent of one Presbyterian service a month and some Sunday School activity. There is, however, little on record concerning these years. With the beginning of the new century and the growth of the population of North Invercargill, the St. Paul's Session is on record as having resolved "that the time had come for taking up definite work in North Invercargill", at a meeting on 16th June, 1902. Further, a deputation

8 consisting of Messrs. McGruer, Ashton, and Baxter, was appointed to meet the Deacons' Court to urge the desirability of doing something for North Invercargill in the way of getting a place for meeting. The Deacons' Court took immediate action by setting up a special committee and by April, 1903, after much discussion and inspection of various sites, one was approved, the legal aspects authorised and the purchase price paid. The next move was the erection of a building. A site previously selected for a branch Church in Lindisfarne Road was not used and later sold. According to the St. Paul's Jubilee Souvenir Booklet, "As, however, the number of members in this part of the town was growing, and as the distance from St. Paul's Church was considerable, it was decided (in 1903 to purchase a beautiful half—acre site (Lots 1 and 2 Block IV, Township of Clinton), for which sixty pounds was paid by the Deacons' Court." Obviously the next step was the erection of the building itself, and Rev. Geo. Lindsay, then minister of St. Paul's, on 12th June 1903, reported to the Session that a committee consisting of Messrs. Baxter, Carswell and Fraser had been appointed to take the necessary steps regarding the building of such a Church. This committee immediately began to make enquiries about plans, but meanwhile a week of evangelistic services, and weekly meetings afterwards, were approved for North Invercargill. This mission met with such approval that in August, Rev. Lindsay reported that he had promised to continue the week-night services until the end of September. The success of this mission appears to have been in no small measure due to the efforts of the Rev. R.H. Catherwood, minister of Waianiwa from 1903 to 1905. It is on record that the St. Paul's elders' districts were re-arranged, Mr. McCurdy being allotted south of Princes Street (now King Street) to Gala Street, and Mr. A. Inglis north of Princes Street. The building committee, rather than be bustled, paid the rates on the section for 1904, but by the end of that year had accepted a plan for a building to cost £250, and the Deacons' Court had appointed Rev. Lindsay and Messrs. Baxter, Carswell, W. Fraser and Gresham, a North Invercargill Committee with power to act. On l4th February, 1905, tenders were called for and on 14th March that of Mr. J. Michie for £273.10.0. was accepted. By 4th June, 1905, the new Church was ready for its purpose. So North Invercargill Presbyterian Church had come into being after passing through stages of being part first, of First Church parish and then, of St. Paul's. Now a third stage was entered upon, with a Church of its own in its midst where its members might meet for worship without the long, and

9 probably not always pleasant, trudge to either First or St. Paul's Churches for divine worship. To quote again from the St. Paul's Jubilee Souvenir Booklet, "..... and on this was erected at a cost of about £275 a Church building designed by Mr. William Fraser (formerly one of our deacons) and built by Mr. John Michie, alsos at that time, a member of the Deacons' Court. Some £64 was contributed by the office-bearers of St. Paul's, and members of the congregation." This Church building was at the corner of Antrim and Princes (King) Streets. THE FIRST NORTH INVERCARGILL PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH The first meeting of the committee appointed by the St. Paul's Deacons' Court on 21st February, 1905. was concerned, with the consideration of the tenders for the building and as mentioned previously a tender was accepted and the work put in hand with Mr. W. Fraser as Inspector of Works. It was also decided that some 500 tickets be obtained for a lecture by a Dr. Nesbitt. The subject of the lecture is not recorded but the result, a nett, profit of £66. 8. 0., is noted. Later the Inspector of Works reported satisfactory progress and it was agreed to apply for a loan from the St. Paul's Jubilee Fund, such loan to be equal to three quarters of the Synod grant, and with provision for a further loan if necessary to complete the contract. A further committee meeting received very satisfactory reports on the progress of the work which was nearing completion, but that it would be necessary to erect a gate in the front fence, a closet and to get a few forms for the use of school children. The treasurer reported that £80 had been received in donations and £127.7.6, from the Jubilee Fund and that the contractor had been paid £175. When the contractor reported that the building would be ready for opening on 4th June, 1905, it was decided to invite the Rev. J.C. Jamieson, Bible Class Travelling Secretary, to conduct the opening services. It was .also decided to attend to the essentials already mentioned and to obtain an organ and hymn books for the opening services and to see about two lamps and a pulpit chair. The Rev. Lindsay mentioned that a Bible had been promised by the Bible Depot. At the earlier of these two meetings it was reported that, at a meeting held in the Meeting House, the ladies had resolved to form a Sewing Bee to arrange for a Sale of Work in aid of the Church and that satisfactory progress was being made. The ladies were also to be consulted about arrangements for the opening; social. It would seem that from the very first stages or North Invercargill Presbyterian Church the ladies have helped in the way of material assistance and advice. 10 On 31st May, 1905, it was reported that Broad Small and Jas. Manson had each promised to supply a hanging lamp for the church, and that quotes for an organ had been received from Chas. Begg & Co., and from the Dresden Piano Co., but Mr. Carr's offer to supply an organ and to play the

11 same on Sunday afternoon was received with thanks, as was Mr. Ashton's offer to act as organist for three months. The selection of an organ was left to the sub-committee and the formation of a choir deferred for the time being. The arranged opening appears to have taken place although there is no detailed evidence of it in the Church records. However the Southland Times of 5th June, 1905, under the heading "Opening of North Invercargill Church", reports as follows: "Yesterday afternoon the new and comfortable Mission Church at North Invercargill was opened for divine worship by the Rev. J.C. Jamieson, B.A. The preacher took for his text, Proverbs, Chapter 29, Verse 18: 'Where there is no vision the people perish'. In a very earnest discourse, Mr. Jamieson pressed home the great necessity first, of having high character, and second, of having high ideals. The speaker stated that those nations and individuals who had no visions, no lofty aims, perished. In dealing with the importance of high Christian character he feared that too many Christians were content with mediocrity, instead of seeking after the highest type of Christian manhood, and he urged upon his hearers to seek after the highest attainment in character if they would give effect to the high ideals that should characterise the noblest type of Christian manhood. Mr. Jamieson in dealing with the second part of his subject — high ideals — illustrated his theme by reference to those men who had accomplished much in the Church and State for the good of their fellows. They were possessed of noble visions and high ideals. In concluding, the speaker besought his hearers to be co- workers with God in redeeming, uplifting and blessing mankind." Still from the Southland Times : "In the evening Mr.Jamieson took for his subject, 'How does the death of Christ differ from all other deaths?' The Church was crowded at both services and the collections were satisfactory. At the evening service Mr. J.L. Watson sang a solo and, in the afternoon, Rev. Geo, Lindsay assisted at the service and Mr. G.A. Carr officiated at the organ." The St. Paul's Jubilee Souvenir Booklet mentions : "The North Invercargill Branch Church was opened on 4th June, 1905 by the Rev. J.C. Jamieson. Services were subsequently carried on by members of the Kirk Session and divinity students until 1911, when unfortunately, the Church 11 was burnt down". In the St. Paul's Annual Report of 1906 a section is devoted to the North Invercargill Church, It commences with : Sunday - 2.30 p.m. Sunday School 3.15 p.m. Service, first Sabbath each month 6.30 p.m. Service every Sabbath Wednesday - 7.45 p.m. Week - night Service in the Church, April to November. It continues with a report that the indebtedness had been reduced to £25 and that the balance of £129. 7. 6. on loan from the Jubilee Fund would be paid off when the Synod grant came to hand. Special mention was made of the assistance rendered by the ladies, and of the attendance and contributions of the people of North Invercargill. A special Sunday School section reports satisfactory progress under Mr. J.S. Baxter, acting for Mr. A. Inglis, Superintendent, for a school of sixty pupils with four teachers. Committee meetings appear to have been held only when there was some business to justify holding them. On 7th July, 1905, it was reported that the contractor had received £175 and. it was agreed that the balance, £98.17. 6., be paid to him. The next meeting was held on 3rd April, 1906, when Rev. Geo. Lindsay was authorised to arrange for the first anniversary social and a ladles' meeting was to be held for the same purpose. Mr. Inglis was granted eight months leave to attend University. Miss Christina Garmson was appointed organist while Mr. Fraser agreed to take the leadership of the choir, and Mr. Baxter agreed to act as Sunday School Superintendent during Mr. Inglis' absence. At a meeting on 31st October, 1906, the committee authorised £4 per annum for Church cleaning and left the interviewing to Rev. Geo. Lindsay, and on 13th March, 1907, Mr. Lindsay reported that a Mrs. Fillipino was willing to act as cleaner for that amount. At this meeting also Mr. Lindsay was authorised to see about obtaining the services of Mr. H. Clark, a divinity student, for six months on trial, but a couple of months later this matter was held over. The Rev. Dr. Dunlop of Knox College, Dunedin was asked to conduct the Anniversary Services to be held on 2nd June, 1907. There appear to have been negotiations with the St. Paul's Session concerning the employment of Mr. Clark. A North Invercargill deputation was met and the matter discussed with the result that the Session expressed their satisfaction with the people of North Invercargill in their desire to have a missionary for a few months. Later, on 6th June, 1907 Rev. Lindsay was able to report to his Session that the North Invercargill Committee had arranged

12 with Mr. Clark to conduct every service for some months and that application had been made to the Church Extension Fund for a grant. Meanwhile the North Invercargill Committee, advised of the St. Paul's Session's concurrence by Mr. Inglis, had agreed to engage Mr. Clark from 16th June, 1907, for six months at a stipend of £2 per week. At the same time the Committee approached the First Church Session with regard to Mr. Clark's preaching at Georgetown on Sunday mornings, the offering being applied to defraying expenses. First Church Session agreed, and Rev. Lindsay reported Knox also to be in agreement, but South Invercargill were not and so no further action was taken. It was agreed that the Treasurer pay Mr. Clark £1 a week in the meantime. The St. Paul's Annual Report of 1907 refers to the work In the North Invercargill part of the parish continuing to prosper and mentions the fact that with the Synod grant the total debt would be paid off. There is complimentary reference to the interest and liberality of the people. Mention is made of the assistance rendered by local preachers in filling the pulpit during the year. The new departure in the engaging of Mr. Clark is appreciated and the fact noted that the additional responsibility due to this appointment is being met by the ladies by means of a sale of work. The report goes on to mention the continued growth of the Sunday School under the superintendence of Mr. Baxter, aided by an excellent staff of teachers and the well attended. Bible Class led by Sister Jean Porteous and a Young Men's Bible Class taken by Mr, Inglis. The Wednesday evening services were taken alternately by Rev, Lindsay and Mr. Clark and had kept up their attendance and interest. Miss Garmson was thanked for playing the organ, and the report concluded with a credit balance of £6. 15. 0. In August, 1907 it was decided that the Moderator, Rev. Lindsay, should make arrangements for the election of a committee of five by the congregation. Messrs. A.J. Garmson, Wm. and L. Fraser, Stewart and Murphy were declared elected .and were to be informed by Mr. Inglis an ex officio member of the committee on account of his being an elder of St. Paul's. Mr. Stewart, however, declined office. Mr. Garmson was elected secretary and Mr. McCurdy, apparently the replacement for Mr. Stewart, treasurer. One of the treasurer's first reports showed that £17 was still owing to Mr. Clark. The amount was passed for payment forthwith. This committee election was referred to in the St. Paul's Annual Report and reference was made to the appointment of Mr. H. Clark from June to December, 1907, and reported that his work had resulted in a marked

13 increase in attendance andinterest in church services. Although a contribution for this work came from the Church Extension Fund, the main burden fell on the ladies who successfully coped with it. On Mr. Clark’s departure, Mr. A.S. Wallace undertook the arrangement of pulpit supply. Rev. Lindsay conducted the service on the afternoon of the first Sunday in each month when congregations had been very good, but evening attendances were capable of improvement. The report goes on to mention Sunday School and Bible Classes. Rev. Lindsay had taken over Sister Jean's class during her absence through accident, and mention is made of the Young Men's class conducted by Mr. Inglis every Sunday afternoon in the Mission Hall. In August, 1908, the Presbytery Report to St. Paul's Session reads as follows : "… the Presbytery also notes with pleasure that efforts have been made by the Minister and Session towards Church Extension in North Invercargill. In view of the rapid increase in population and the large number reported not to be in regular attendance upon our Church services, we would commend to the Session and Deacons' Court the earnest consideration of the possibility of some more adequate provision for the spiritual needs of our people residing at Gladstone, North Invercargill and adjacent districts." There had been a grant of £30 towards the cost of the North Invercargill section, St. Paul's donating the remaining £30. 1909 has scant records of interest. The St. Paul's Session records the death of Mr. George Hardie, an elder for thirty years, twenty-one of them as Session Clerks and for many years superintendent of the North Invercargill Sunday School. Mr. Hardie was the first headmaster of the North Invercargill School. Another entry records that Miss Garmson resigned to attend "collegiate classes" in Dunedin, i.e. the Teachers' Training College, and that Miss Brown was asked to take over as organist for three months. Arrangements for the annual social included the obtaining of tickets, adults 1s.Od., and children 6d. The St, Paul's Annual Report for 1909 mentions that during Rev, Lindsay's absence through illness, visiting ministers maintained the supply for the monthly North Invercargill services. It goes on to commend the Sunday School work under Mr. Baxter's supervision and the Bible Class work due in a large measure to the enthusiasm of Sister Jean Porteous . In commenting on Miss Garmson’s resignation as organist, it mentions that the position was filled by Mrs. Gillies. In 191O student supply was again used and a Mr. W. McLean was 14 appointed from 1st November, 1910, to 31st March, 1911, and a sum of £12, being at the rate of £1 per week was passed for payment; but a deputation was appointed to wait on the St. Paul's Deacons' Court "to ascertain the position in relation to the matter of liability thereto". Meanwhile Rev. George Lindsay, minister of St. Paul's for some twenty- two years resigned to go to St. Clair, Dunedin. There is no mention in either St. Paul's Session of Deacons' Court minutes, nor for that matter, in the North Invercargill Committee's minutes, of the destruction of the Mission Hall by fire. In the Southland Daily News of 9th August, 1910, under the heading "Fire in Invercargill. Old Landmark Destroyed", there is a very detailed account of the incident. Extracts from this report may be of some interest. "When the firebell rang in the early hours of this morning to indicate an out- break in the northernmost part of the borough, the few residents who rose to the occasion and endeavoured to locate the fire, noted that the distance was great and promptly went back to bed. Those in the vicinity of Dublin Street, North Invercargill, were, however, soon astir. ... It transpired that the outbreak was in the old Mission Hall used as part of the North Invercargill School ... The crackling of the dry old timber and the bright glare soon had all the other residents out and a lad named Taylor ran into town and gave the alarm. It was about a quarter of an hour after the discovery that the bell rang and by the time the Brigade got on the scene the building was practically a sheet of flame. There was no water available and had there been it would not have been any use on account of the age of the building and the complete mastery which the flames had over the situation. By half past five the fire had burnt itself out and only the chimney was left standing". To continue the report from the News : "The hall was erected by the ratepayers of the Borough of North Invercargill about thirty-five years ago, to be used as a. meeting house or undenominational mission hall, and it was put to many uses during its lengthy existence. During the current year it was rented as a school room in conjunction with the North Invercargill School, under Mr. Inglis M.A., and served its purpose well. It consisted of one room and two porches. ... A defective chimney was the cause of the outbreak. The hall narrowly escaped being burnt down six weeks ago through the same cause but it was discovered in time. 'Time it was burned down', remarked one bystander and he added that he had always considered it unsafe, particularly so after last month's incipient scare." There is no mention in the press report of the hall being used for any church purpose, although the 1908 St. Paul's Annual Report refers to a Young Men's Bible Class conducted in the 15 Mission Hall every Sunday afternoon by Mr. Inglis. The only possible clue to its church use was the mention of an organ in the contents which were a total loss although the building was insured for £125. This fire would seem to have been a preliminary to later events which were to force the North Invercargill Church to further expansions In 1911, as if to emphasise the Presbytery's exhortation to the St. Paul's Session in August, 1908, to provide more accommodation at North Invercargill, the North Invercargill Presbyterians were confronted with an unexpectedly serious situation. The church, erected in 1905s their main accommodation, was completely destroyed, by fire. The only official references to this calamity were first, in the North Invercargill Committee's minutes of 22nd August, 1911, with a reference to a letter from the Church Factor regarding the insurance on the burned building, and a note to the effect that, in spite of Interviews, the police had no clues as to the origin of the fire; second, there was reference to Mr. Inglis being authorised to procure the necessary materials to carry on Sunday School and a request for the use of the North Invercargill School for Sunday School work. St. Paul's Session minutes record the outlines of the St, Paul's parish: "From the Estuary along Tweed Street to Clyde Street, there to Tay Street, there to Deveron Street, Gala Street, there to St. Andrew Street, along St. Andrew Street to limits of settlement": apparently as far north as the town then extended. Then Mr. Baxter reported "that the North Invercargill Church was burned down on ... (space left) and that the Sunday School was presently held in the Public School kindly granted by the School Committee". It was resolved "that the Session's sympathy be extended to our North Invercargill brethren on their severe loss". It was then agreed "that the clerk write the Trustees of the Baptist Church asking if they would grant the use of their Church in North Invercargill for the continuation of services." Later, at; a St. Paul's congregational meeting on 3rd November, 1911 Mr. Baxter referred to "the poor Sunday School accommodation at North Invercargill since the Church was burned down on , ... again space left)". Nowhere in either St. Paul's or North .Invercargill Church records can any date or any great detail of the fire be found. Once again the local press comes to the rescue and in the Southland Times of 15th August, 1911, under the heading "Fire In North Invercargill. Presbyterian Church Destroyed", the following details are recorded : "The fire alarm which rang out shortly before three o'clock this morning, was due to a fire in the Presbyterian Church at the corner of Antrim and Prlnces (King) Streets, North Invercargill. By the time the Brigade reached the scene, the 16 Church, which was a wooden one, was a mass of flames and nothing could be done to save it. The heat was intense, and the residence of Mr. Georgeson on the adjoining section was seen to be in danger. The paint on the walls was blistering and smoking and the windows were beginning to crack. On this residence the firemen concentrated, and throwing buckets of water against the wall they managed to save the building. The Church was speedily eaten up by the flames, and inside half an hour nothing remained of it but a heap of embers. It was fortunate that the Church was, to some extent, isolated by the size of the section on which it stood otherwise a more serious conflagration would have ensued. The North Invercargill Church had been built for about four or five years, and was a branch of St. Paul's Presbyterian Church." It would appear that records were a little vague even then. This Church had been built in 1905, six years previously. On 5th October, 1911, it is recorded that church services were to be resumed in the Baptist Church, Sydney Street. The Baptists later decided to charge the Presbyterians, and the Brethren, 2s,6d. a week for the use of their Church. The shifting of the Sunday School was left in the hands of Rev. H.W. Burridge, M.A., and Mr. Baxter. Rev. Burridge was the newly appointed minister of St. Paul's (August, 1911) from West Perth in West Australia. It was also decided that the old site was the most suitable for a new church. Apparently the old adage of 'more haste less speed' operated in those times. On 26th July, 1912, a public meeting, under the chairmanship of Rev. Burridge, was held in the Baptist Church to consider a proposal to erect a new Presbyterian Church in St. Andrew Street. Mr. Burridge explained that, under the circumstances, the Presbytery suggested this site to meet the needs of Lindisfarne as well as North Invercargill, and to that end the Presbytery had discussed the matter with the St. Paul's Deacons' Court and had agreed to the sale of the Princes Street site and the purchase of a now site in St. Andrew Street. Revs. Ryburn and Shaw spoke in support of this scheme and Messrs„ Ayson, Baxter, Garmson and Inglis were appointed a committee to go into the practical details and to ascertain what support would be forthcoming from the residents of both suburbs. Rev. Ryburn promised to find out how many First Church members would join the new church. At a further meeting, held a month later in the Baptist Church, presided over by Rev. Ryburn, with whom were associated Rev. Burridge and Messrs Baxter and Kilburn, there were fifteen residents present. Rev. Ryburn outlined the steps he thought should be taken; Rev. Burridge reported that

17 the Presbytery proposed to constitute North Invercargill and Lindisfarne a Church Extension charge at the earliest possible date, and sketch plans for a suitable building were submitted with estimates, £570 for brick, £520 for reinforced concrete and £410 for wood. Mr. Ryburn reported that fourteen First Church members would change over. The feeling of the meeting was expressed in a motion by Messrs. Baxter and A,W. Anderson that it would be advisable to form North Invercargill into a separate charge and to proceed with the erection of a new church as soon as possible. To this end an. Interim Committee, with power to add, was set up: Alexander Bain, John Hall, Alexander W. Anderson, John Lindsay, Thomas Haining, Albert Gammon, William Fraser, John Docherty, George Buchanan, Hugh McDonald, Alexander Inglis (Secretary pro tem), to act in conjunction with the Presbytery Committee consisting of Revs. Ryburn, Burridge, Shaw and Messrs. R.J. Cumming, W. Thom and Kilburn. Meanwhile Messrs. Haining and Inglis were instructed to try to arrange for the use of the school for church services and for Sunday School as the Baptists had indicated their church was wanted by the end of August, 1912. Several comparatively frequent committee meetings were held over the next three months, all being in the homes of various members. At the first of these, held on 30th August, 1912, in A.W. Anderson's residence and presided over by Rev. Ryburn, it was reported that Messrs. Garmson and W. Fraser had declined committee membership; that use of the Public School had been granted by the Chairman of the School Committee subject to his committee's confirmation. Messrs. Blue, Haining, Inglis and Officer were appointed a sub- committee to consider plans and to report to the next meeting; and that Presbytery was to be approached to appoint a sub—committee to approve the plans and specifications. It was also decided to make a systematic canvass including Lindisfarne and Richmond Grove. At the next meeting on 13th September, 1912, in Mr. Bain's residence, Rev. Ryburn again presided. Mr. Magnus Fraser was added to the committee. It was reported that the Public School was available for Sunday afternoons and evenings, if necessary, provided that the Church Committee would pay a small sum for extra cleaning. It was agreed to pay 1s.0d. per week for this purpose. Sketch plans from A. Dawson, architect, were submitted by Mr. Blue. The School-house was the scene of the next meeting on 4th October, 1912. Mr. Haining was appointed secretary to replace Mr. Inglis who had resigned. A regular financial report was requested and the Moderator, Rev.

18 Ryburn, and the secretary were to interview the clerk of the St. Paul's Deacons' Court with reference to monies held in trust for North Invercargill. Then "owing to a feeling that a misunderstanding existed which required to be cleared up, it was resolved to adjourn in order, if possible, to have an unofficial conference with the parties concerned; the Moderator and the secretary to represent the committee and to arrange the meeting. Two months later on 2nd December, 1912, at Mr. Haining’s house the Presbytery Committee, previously mentioned, was present and the Rev. Burridge presided. Rev. Ryburn reported having met the North Invercargill Committee and that they were willing. to submit the matters in dispute to a congregational meeting. This was arranged for 16th December, and at it matters of site, allocation of moneys, etc., were to be discussed. All members of the old North Invercargill Committee were to receive notice of this meeting, and the minutes of the last two meetings of the Interim Committee were to be read at the meeting. This arranged congregational meeting was duly held with Rev. Burridge in the chair and the whole question was thoroughly discussed resulting in agreement to recommend to Presbytery that Synod sanction be obtained to sell the Lindisfarne site and to obtain one further north in the vicinity of the old site for the erection of a new church. A committee was set up to draw up reasons for the change of site, and to make enquiries as to suitable sites, for presentation to the February, 1913, meeting of Presbytery. This report was submitted to a committee meeting in the School-room, Ann Street, Rev. Burridge presiding, and discussed clause by clause, but no details are given as to the contents of the clauses. It was, however, resolved "that if' Mr. Anderson offered the old church site for sale, it be added to the list". On 14th March, 1913, Mr. Inglis presided over a meeting held in the School-room, Ann Street, where a letter from the Presbytery was considered but held over for the time being. This letter was probably the Presbytery's reply to the committee's submissions but, unfortunately, again no details were recorded. The question of purchasing a strip of land in Windsor Street was discussed and a maximum offer of £75 was agreed to. After an adjournment Mr. Blue submitted plans and moved that Plan 1 be sent on to the Presbytery; this plan apparently involved £200 for a site and £750 for a building. Application was made to Presbytery for grants; £300 towards church building and £75 to purchase a site for a cottage manse. Owing to the Invercargill City Council not putting the intervening strip of land up for sale 19 no finality was reached in this direction. The next three meetings were largely taken up, according to the records, with negotiations for the purchase of Windsor Street property. Messrs. Officer and Docherty reported that their bid of £45 had been the highest but that, considering the reserve was £100, the bid had been withdrawn. A first price on Mr. H. Georgeson's property was reduced to £280. On the Town Clerk's suggestion £65 was offered for the Council's strip of land. Later, Mr. Georgeson forwarded an amended offer to sell Sections 1,2,3 and part of Section 3 Block I, Mitcheltown for £125, £5 "to be returned to the new church fund; this was accepted. The Town Clerk wrote offering to sell Section 14, Block II, Charleston for £75. In addition to all these property negotiations the Committee was engaged in getting its house in order and planning for the new building. Mr. Officer was authorised to receive all monies, books and papers, the property of North Invercargill Church. Sketch plans were submitted by Messrs. Blue arid Fraser and they were appointed to interview Mr. A. Dawson, the architect. After liberal additions, Mr. Dawson was authorised to proceed with plans and specifications which were later approved for submission to Presbytery but conditional that alternative tenders be called for the erection of the building in brick. Rev. J. Cumming was interviewed with reference to the grant to assist in building the church and also regarding the sale of the Lindisfarne section. He later reported that the section could be disposed of only through the Church Board of Property, but that he would personally endeavour to have any credit balance credited to the North Invercargill Committee. It was agreed to sell the Lindisfarne site but that the committee be consulted before any sale was finalised, otherwise such sale could be indefinitely delayed owing to the depressed state of the land market. Eleven tenders for the erection of the new church were received and that of A. Cowan for £689 was accepted, the building committee to fix the actual location and Messrs. Anderson and Haining were authorised to sign all legal documents. Later 1913, meetings were similarly concerned. Section 4, part of Section 3, Block I, Mitcheltown was purchased from Mr. Georgeson for £85, £35 down and the remainder on twelve months Mortgage. It was decided that the church should be erected on Section 4, Block I, Mitcheltown and should be kept five feet from the south boundary. Applications were made to the Jubilee Fund (of St. Paul's, of which parish North Invercargill was still part) for £112, and for an order on the Church Board of Property for a Synod grant for £150 as security for the said loan. The Board advised that Manse Grants

20 would be available any time, provided that the regulations were complied with, and insurance money from the fire would be remitted as required during the erection of the church. The Lindisfarne sale was negotiated by private treaty, £280 being set as the price; but finally an offer of £275 from Mr. Inglis was accepted. There was quite a deal of business concerned with the legal aspects of all these in-matters. THE SECOND NORTH INVERGARGILL PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH Meanwhile the building of the New Church was proceeding apace. A marble slab for the foundation stone was donated by Messrs. Kingsland and Ferguson, and the opening ceremony was fixed for 3.00 p.m. on 21st December, 1913. It may appear remarkable but there are no further details regarding the ceremony in any of the church records examined. However, the Southland papers, both of them, reported the matter in some detail. In the News of 22nd December, and the Times of 23rd December, can be found the following details : "The new brick Presbyterian Church which has been in the course of erection for several months, in Windsor Street, near the tram terminus, was opened last Sunday afternoon. There was a large attendance of friends and supporters and every available seat was occupied and a large number of emergency forms was pressed into service. It is estimated that over two hundred people were present. Rev. HI.W. Burridge presided and was assisted by Revs. H.J. Ryburn, J.W. Shaw, J. Baird and W. McLean. Rev. Burridge took as his text 'She shall call his name Immanuel’, and preached an elegant and appropriate sermon. In the course of his remarks he stated that it was now about two and a half years since the wooden church had been burnt down and during that time they had been carrying on their services in the North Invercargill Baptist Church for which privilege they were deeply indebted to their Baptist friends and during the past eighteen months they had held their services in the Public School. After much sustained effort on the part of their committee they were pleased to be in their fine new building. The cost of the building was about £700 and there would be a debt of about £200 on the church. Rev. J. Baird offered the dedicatory prayer. "Immediately following the opening all present assembled at the front of the building where Mrs. Burridge unveiled a memorial stone bearing the inscription, "This building was opened for the worship of God, on Christmas Sunday, 1913'- Rev. W. McLean of Remuera, Auckland, who as assistant to Rev. Geo. Lindsay, did service in North Invercargill some years ago, led in prayer. The offerings received reached nearly £11. Rev. Burridge regretted that their old pastor, Rev. Lindsay, could not be with them; he said they were 21 all looking forward to having a Home Missionary or a student settled amongst them at an early date in this rapidly developing district." The News goes on to give a detailed description of the building which is of interest: "The main body of the church, to be used as a Sunday School in the meantime, is thirty-six feet by twenty-six feet and provides ample seating for one hundred and fifty adults, and has a porch twelve feet by ten feet on the front. At the rear are two classrooms, eleven feet by eight feet, separated by a movable partition which enables them to be thrown into one large room, while above these rooms is the infant room measuring nineteen feet by eleven feet. The walls are of brick fourteen feet high and the roof is of iron. The porch and the auditorium have high . panelled venesta dadoes above which the walls are tastefully kalsomined. The outside walls are relieved with brick buttresses, capped with, red tiles, which add to the appearance. As before mentioned the building cost just under £700 and has been carefully and conscientiously carried out by the contractor. Mr. Arthur R. Dawson, architect, who was responsible for the preparation of the plans is also entitled to recognition for his efforts." From this time on meetings were held in the church, Windsor Street. There were still sundry financial details to be attended to. In addition, matters like an organ, eventually an instrument at £20, less £3 sale price, was preferred to one, also at £20, offered by Mr. Bain; the installation of water supply; the hiring of a piano for a social; and, it is interesting to note that at one meeting the only amount presented and passed for payment was for 2s.9d. for a broom handle. The manse site was changed from Section 4 to Section 1 with Presbytery approval; but the Presbytery suggested the inclusion of Hawthorndale and Inglewood with North Invercargill for services, declining a North Invercargill suggestion to include Richmond Grove. Concurrently with all these mundane matters was the idea of having North Invercargill declared a church extension charge. When, in May, 1914, Presbytery sanctioned morning and evening services, Rev. Adam Begg of Wallacetown comes on to the scene us Moderator. The application from the North Invercargill Committee to have North Invercargill declared a church extension charge was favourably received by both the Presbytery and the Church Extension Committee. This meant that the congregation had to guarantee £90 which, with estimated collections, plus Church Extension grant, would ensure a salary of £220 for the chosen minister. Rev. Begg, who must have been a stickler for constitutional procedure, reported that the Presbytery, in constituting North Invercargill a church extension charge, had

22 failed to comply with Church Law. His contention was that Presbytery should have supplied notice of its intention so to act to St. Paul's Church, and had notappointed a committee to report on the proposal prior to taking action. This matter was held over and later it was decided to take no action. The North Invercargill Committee recommended to a congregational meeting that the name of Rev. John Collie M.A. of Crookston should be forwarded to Presbytery, and, with congregational approval, it was unanimously agreed to request Presbytery to take the necessary steps towards Rev, Collie's induction. Arrangements for the call were made and commissioners appointed. Mr. Collie's removal expenses were to be paid and, until a manse was available, a house was to be rented for him. Plans for the manse were held over pending Mr. Collie's acceptance of the call. The Rev. John Collie, M.A., attended the Theological Hall, Knox College, Dunedin, 1895-1897; in 1899-1900 he was Assistant Minister at Knox Church, Dunedin; in 1901 he was ordained and inducted to the parish of Crookston in West Otago. His induction to North Invercargill appears to have taken place between 4th and 27th July, 1914, but the actual date is not recorded in the North Invercargill Committee's records. Dr. Rutherford Waddell, Revs. George Lindsay and Henderson were invited to the ceremony and Mr. Inglis was appointed to speak on behalf of the congregation. So North Invercargill took another step forward in that it became a church extension charge with a minister of its own. Its ties with St. Paul's were loosened off and Mr. Baxter and the St. Paul's Session Clerk were appointed to appear at a Presbytery meeting to suggest that the boundaries of the new charge be St. Andrew Street to the South and Elles Road to the West. The field appears to have been unlimited to the North and to the East. NORTH INVERCARGILL - A CHURCH EXTENSION CHARGE In accordance with Church Law, Rev. Adam Begg, of Wallacetown, the Interim Moderator for North Invercargill and his Wallacetown Session were appointed Interim Session for the new charge and one of their first duties was to form a Communion Roll and to arrange for the election of elders to assist with the spiritual requirements of the parish. The North Invercargill Session Minute Book was started by Rev, Begg himself, as Clerk of the Presbytery. He wrote a short contributory summary and it is interesting to quote the same verbatim : "North Session — Foreword. After the old church was burnt in North Invercargill in 1911. the Presbytery referred to the Committee anent Church 23 Extension in Invercargill, consisting of city ministers and their Presbytery elders with Mr. Ryburn as convener, the question of a site for a new church and the practicability of forming a new charge in the district. On 4th June, 1912, it was agreed to continue the committee and to instruct it to meet with the residents of North Invercargill and endeavour to secure their co- operation in any movement taken towards the erection of a new church and the establishment of a congregation, the Rev. H.W. Burridge to be the convener. Arrangements were made whereby the afternoon service at North Invercargill was conducted in turn by the city ministers and Rev. J. Baird, each officiating once a month. On 6th August, 1912, after hearing a deputation from a meeting of the Presbyterian residents of North Invercargill, the Presbytery agreed 'that the application be made for a grant of £50 per annum for North Invercargill”. On 3rd March, 1914, Rev. Burridge reported to Presbytery that the new church had been completed and opened in December last and that the time had now arrived for the Presbytery to take further steps regarding further services there. Hi- also stated that the committee appointed by Presbytery wished to be discharged. The committee's resignation was accepted. Rev. A. Begg was appointed Moderator of North Invercargill, and the North Invercargill Committee was instructed to make a canvass to see what financial support could be obtained for the ordinances. As a result promises were received from persons, mostly heads of families. It was reported to the Presbytery that £90 could be raised for the stipend fund, and it was estimated that the ordinary collections would amount to about £90. An application was therefore made to Presbytery to constitute North Invercargill a Church Extension charge. The Presbytery granted the application on 5th May, subject to the concurrence of the Church Extension Committee, which was subsequently given. On 2nd June, a request signed by sixty eight members and thirty seven adherents of the church, residing in North Invercargill and neighbourhood was laid before Presbytery, asking that Rev. J. Collie, M.A., of Crookston be settled as their first minister. It was stated that the North Invercargill Committee would pay Mr. Collie's removal expenses and house rent until a manse should be built. The salary would be £160 as a minimum and more if funds were available. The Presbytery agreed to appoint Mr. Collie, subject to the consent of the Mataura Presbytery, and appointed the induction for Friday, 17th July, at 3- 00 p.m. On the same date the Presbytery appointed the Wallacetown Session to be the Interim Session for North Invercargill. - Adam Begg, Presbytery Clerk." The first meeting of the Interim Session was held in the Wallacetown

24 vestry on 24th June, 1914. Rev. Adam Begg, Moderator, presided over Messrs. Scott, Wells, Young, and Officer, elders. It was agreed to inform the North Invercargill congregation that the Interim Session would meet in the North Invercargill Church on 10th July, 1914, at 7.30 p.m. for the purpose of forming a Communion Roll and further that a congregational meeting would be held at 8.00 p.m. the same evening for the purpose of electing elders to form a Kirk Session. At the Interim Session meeting on 10th July, it was agreed to enter on the Communion Roll of North Church the following names : From St. Paul's, — Mrs. A, Mitchell, Miss Constance Officer, Miss Helen Blue, Mrs. A.J. Garmson, Mrs. L. Wright, Miss Winnie Inglis, Mr. Alex.Officer, Mr. A.J. Garmson, Miss J. Garmson, Miss C. Garmson, Mr. Alec. Inglis, Mr. J.M. Dochorty, Mrs. Docherty, Mr. Wm. Blue, Mr. Robert McNarey, Mr. John Brown, Mrs . Ann Brown, Mr. Win. Fraser, Mrs. Wrn. Fraser, Mr. Lawrence Fraser, Mrs. Margaret Fraser, Mr. Alfred H. Murdoch, Mrs.Margaret Murdoch, Mrs. Elizabeth Officer, Miss A. Lindsay, Mrs. Inglis, Mr. Alex.Kerr and Mrs. Alex. Kerr : From First Church, -Mr. Henry Perriam, Mrs. H.R, Perriam, Mrs. Tulloch, Mrs. A. Anderson, Mr. Robt. Blue, Mrs. R. Blue, Mrs. Wm. Ridland, Mr. J.G. Lock, Mrs. J.G. Lock, Mrs. Welsh, Mr. Thos. Haining, Mrs. Thos. Haining : From Wallacetown, - Mrs. Helen Blue, Mr. John Given : From Limestone Plains, - Mrs. James Lindsay and Miss Jeannie Lindsay: From St. Paul's, Oamaru, - Mr. and Mrs. W.A. Sproat: and lastly, from the Presbyterian Church in the Homeland, - Mr. J.P. Scott, Mrs. Scott, and Mrs. Fletcher. The congregation was recommended to elect Messrs. A. Inglis and A. Officer of St. Paul's and T. Haining of First Church, as riders, all three men having been elders of the churches mentioned. Futher, it was agreed to discontinue the afternoon service from 12th July, in favour of 11.00 a.m. and 6.30 p.m. services each Sabbath. Messrs. Inglis, Officer and Haining were duly inducted as elders by Rev. J. Collie on 26th July, 191k and thus became the first Session of North Church, Mr. Inglis being appointed the first Session Clerk. At their first meeting, 27th July, 1914 the newly appointed Session received and accepted the resignation of Mr. J.S. Baxter as Sunday School Superintendent, and thanked Mr. Inglis for acting during Mr. Baxter's absence; Mr. W.A. Sproat was appointed to the position. At their next meeting elders' districts were arranged : — Mr. Haining,- Coldstream and North Invercargill west of the tram and north of Newcastle Street ; Mr.

25 Officer, - North Invercargill east of the tram and north of Newctle Street; Mr. Inglis, - south of Newcastle Street. An Interesting arrangement compared with 1965 elders' districts of which there are thirty nine. Another unrelated incident of interest was the Report of Rev. J.K. Archer to his controlling authority on 7th July, 1914 that the North Invercargill building, the Sydney Street Baptist Church had been destroyed by fire, and that it was proposed to obtain the use of the public hall in the meantime. North Church Committee was now functioning under the moderatorship of Rev. Collie. It was noted that £25O insurance money had been received and also a £75 grant towards the cost of the manse. Mr. Magnus Fraser offered to concrete the front entrance of the church free of charge and he was also authorised to interview First Church regarding their old church bell. Baptismal, and marriage registers, communion requisites — individual cups and cards were procured. Vestibule rota were approved and Mr. R. McNarey was thanked for donating two collection plates. The finance of the new manse was still on the agenda, and the question of gas versus electricity in the manse was decided in favour of the latter provided the cost did. not exceed £23, in fact the lowest tender of £23. 6.2. was accepted. Some three months after the matter was first mentioned, First Church were thanked for their donation of the church bell. There were several references to the bell in the next few meetings; tenders were called for the erection of a bell tower; the architect's advice on the hanging of the bell was sought; and a decision reached to erect a tower, provided the cost did not exceed £12; eventually a contract was let for £10. A later reference to the pulleys in the tower seems to indicate that all was not well with the hanging of the bell and the matter was left in the hands of a subcommittee. About a year later in early 1916, someone appears to have discovered that the said, bell had a past and it was decided that Mr. Haining investigate and record the bell's history. If Mr. Haining did so, and presumably he would, there is no trace of any such record today. The bell, still in use in the present church, has cast on it "Wilson & Christie, Bell Founders, Glasgow, 1859". It may have been the first First Church bell, but its history from 1859-1915 appears to have disappeared into the mists of oblivion. Later in 1918 there is a record that two boys were paid £1 for bell ringing. The manse was duly erected and the records refer to sundry grants towards its cost, together with details of insurance for it and the church. The small amenities were not omitted as witness a clothes hoist at £4.10.8. and the planting of an escallonia hedge on the street frontages of the manse and

26 the church. During the transition period from the old regime to that of a church extension charge, it had been deemed advisable to retain the North Invercargill Church Committee in office, but early in 1915 it was decided to elect a Deacons' Court. Messrs. A.W. Andorson and A. Edie were ordained and, with Messrs. W.M. Blue, J.M. Docherty, A.J. Garmson, R. McNarey and V.A. Sproat, duly inducted. At its first meeting on 3rd May, 1915, Mr. Sproat was appointed secretary and Mr. McNarey, treasurer. The following committees were set up, - Works, Messrs. Blue, Haining, Docherty; Finance, Messrs. McNarey, Officer, Docherty, Haining; Sustentation, Messrs. Edie, Officer, Anderson, Haining. Later Messrs. Inglis and Sproat were added to the finance committee, and a social committee, Messrs. Haining, McNarey and Sproat, was set up. Meetings were fixed for the first Thursday of each month. In the Session Report for 1915 there is mention of Ladies' Guild and P.W.M.U. both under the presidency of Mrs. Collie with Mrs. Inglis secretary of the former and Miss Blue the latter. North Church was speedily assembling all the machinery necessary for its functioning as a separate charge for the establishment of which the Report credits "largely to the energy and persuasiveness of Rev. Begg, who had been appointed to the moderatorship of the local mission station". One or two financial entries are of passing interest. The ladies received the thanks of the Court for raising £63.18.1. A gass account for 2s.2d. was passed for payment. £28.9.0. was reported as the quarterly sustentation fund contributions. Thefirst mention of the envelope system is recorded at the beginning of 1916, but the matter was held over. It was found that certain items had not been included in the Church Building Account so it was resolved to send the figures on to the Church Factor with the object of claiming the grant on the same. Debentures short-dated at 5% were issued for church loans, and further, as the ladies were all busy with war work, it was resolved to try to clear the debt by voluntary giving. As it had been decided to increase the strength of the Deacons' Court to ten, further deacons were appointed. Debt extinction was a burning subject and was the subject of a talk by Mr. Sproat at the 1916 annual congregational meeting. Interest in religious education prompted the Session to request half an hour per week for religious instruction in the Public School. But the most important matter was the move towards the status of a fully sanctioned charge. This had been mooted a year previously but it was on 2nd December, 1916, that the Moderator was able to report to the Session that

27 the Sustentation Committee had agreed to the proposal and that the matter would be determined at the next Presbytery meeting. This move involved a stipend of £200 per annum and according to Church Law the charge had to be treated as vacant, a call arranged, and the selected minister duly inducted. NORTH INVERCARGILL - A FULLY SANCTIONED SELF-SUSTAINING CHARGE On 11th February, 1917, the congregation agreed to the Session's recommendation that the Rev. J. Collie's name be inserted in the call to the newly-established fully sanctioned charge. Rev. Collie's absence on holiday at this particular time facilitated matters and avoided any possible embarrassment. In due course he was duly inducted, the Interim Moderator again being Rev. Begg of Wallacetown. The next nine years of Rev. Collie's ministry were marked by continual progress in every direction. The communicant membership more than doubled, the Sunday School maintained its strength, the Bible Classes went to the Public School for accommodation, the choir continued to lead the singing under, first, Mr. A.E. Featherstone until ill health prevented his continuing as choir-master, and later Mr. J.R. Eadie assisted from time to time by Mr. T. Haining. Young Worshippers' League started in 1916 and in 1918 the Presbyterian Men's League and the Loyal Temperance Legion began to function.

Rev. John Collie M.A. 1914-1925 Rev. William Tanner 1926-1938

28 Electric light was installed in the church by A.& T. Burt for £13.2.6., for six, fifty candle-power lights in the church and a sixteen candle-power light in each porch and in the lower classroom. The bell pulleys were still unsatisfactory in spite of a six inch hole having been cut for the bell rope. A reading desk was authorised as was a choir platform with six more choir chairs. The 1917 Annual Meeting referred the balance sheet back to the Deacons' Court on account of some error. Mr. Haining, who was doing the church cleaning, returned the pay to be used for the installation of a gas cooker and a telephone in the manse. The cooker was installed but the phone was held over while the pros and cons of party line and private line were discussed, but owing to some indefiniteness in Mr. Collie's movements the matter was deferred. During Mr. Collie's ministry, the stipend was raised from £200 to £300, and the general account appears to have handled amounts increasing from £486.19.1. to £854.5.1. Collections rose from £136.0.7½d. in 1917 to £243.7.11. in 1925, while sustentation rose from £117.16.0. to £171.3.6. In August, 1918, the matter of becoming a self-sustaining charge was discussed and a special congregational meeting was held in April, 19'9, to consider the matter and the related recommendation of the Deacons' Court committee that the envelope system should be introduced. Bad weather caused a very small attendance but a subsequent meeting in the following August recommended that the charge be self-sustaining immediately. The question of the introduction of the envelope system was referred back to the Court for it to ascertain the mind of the congregation. The Court found some fifteen members in favour and so decided to adopt the envelope system on the first Sunday in 1920. At the same time, after about three years delay, it was decided to put the manse on a party telephone line with Mr. Sproat, thus connecting church and school, minister and clerk of the Deacons' Court. Much of the foregoing took place during the years of the Great War (1914-1918) and there are numerous references to Belgian Relief Collections and war work generally as well as references to various people going off to the war. In one ease the Deacons' Court gave one of its members leave for this purpose. Then, too, there were the motions of sympathy and letters to the relatives of the men killed in action. There appears to have been a Roll of Honour, but investigations have so far failed to locate it. The Session is on record as sending its congratulations to the wives of Chaplain Captains H. Clark and W. McLean on the occasions of these two men being decorated with the Military Cross. Both of these men had served North Invercargill

29 Church as students for about six months each when the church was in its formative period as a branch of St. Paul's. By the end of 1920 the attention of both the Session and the Deacons' Court was directed to the need for greater accommodation and after enquiries and securing an option over a section on the corner of Windsor and George Streets, it was decided to buy the section at the corner of Windsor and Bourke Streets at a price of £200 less a £5 donation to church funds. This was done, but an architect submitted sketch plans for additions to the existing church and advised that he considered the Windsor Bourke Street corner section too small for a church In seat four hundred people, with the ancillary rooms. Several meetings were held with Messrs. W. McCaw and Blue and Hopkirk. At length Mr. Inglis moved that a new church scheme be submitted to the congregation. Mr. McCaw was asked to prepare a sketch, of a building to seat two hundred and seventy people at a cost of approximately £2,500. From mid 1925 until mid 1926 there was much discussion and consultation, move and counter-move, regarding the new church, its seating and cost, and how to finance it. Up till November, 1925, the personnel of North Church had had a continuity right from the time it had been declared a church extension charge and Rev. Collie inducted as its first minister in July, 1914. Mr. Collie's acceptance of a call to the charge of Queenstown and his consequent resignation from North Invercargill broke that continuity. Some six months were to elapse before a successor was inducted. During his eleven years at North Invercargill, Rev. Collie saw his charge develop from a church extension charge to fully sanctioned, self-sustaining status. He had seen a great increase in membership and a continued interest in and growth of all church activities, so much so that, at the time of his resignation, plans were being considered for the erection of a new and larger church to cope with the situation. The Session and the Deacons' Court had both been increased accordingly, and, in 1924, it had been decided that deacons should be elected for life. By his gentle kindliness in personal dealings and by his wise assessment of his people's needs, he had made his ministry a time of fertile sowing in this new field. After some six years at Queenstown he again resigned, this time to take up the Professorship of New Testament Studies at the Theological Hall, Knox College, Dunedin. He was the first New Zealand-trained minister to be

30 appointed a teacher in the place where he himself had been taught. In the same year, 1931, he became Moderator of the General Assembly of New Zealand. These two appointments may be taken as tokens of the regard for Mr. Collie's scholarship and the respect in which his fellow ministers held for him. No mention of Rev. John Collie would be complete without reference to Mrs. Collie, the first "Lady of the North Invercargill Manse". Mrs. Collie is remembered with love and respect and to quote from the Very Rev. Collie himself; "It was she, whose ever clear sense of what was fitting, who had helped him in all his ministry, and who had cheerfully borne the tasks of the day and kept the home fires burning". Mrs. Collie was active in many .church activities, - Ladies' Guild, P.W.M.U., Sunday School, and, as occasion demanded, Bible Class and relieving organist. North Church has reason to thank God for the privilege of having as co-workers in their church's early and formative times the Very Rev. John Collie and Mrs. Collie. THE THIRD NORTH INVERCARGILL PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH Pending the selection of a new minister, Rev. James Chisholm of Knox Church, Invercargill, was appointed by Presbytery to act as Interim Moderator of North. There were sundry details on the Deacons' Court agenda, including the purchase of the garage which Rev. Collie had been given permission to erect on the manse section with the right of removal or sale to the Court; there was also the matter of the position of the pulpit and some experimenting to find the best place for it. With regard to the vacancy a decision was reached to raise the stipend to £350 after a motion to raise it to £325 had been defeated. The Session carried a motion that all candidates be asked to preach for two Sundays if possible, but the decision, only a fortnight later, to insert the name of Rev. W. Tanner, of Ferry Road Church, Christchurch, in the call, needs no comment. It would appear the Mr. Tanner made a very favourable impression. Rev. William Tanner came to the Presbyterian Church from the Congregational Church in 1919 and was inducted into the charge of St. Peter's, Ferry Road, Christchurch in 1920. His induction to the parish of North Invercargill took place on 21st May, 1926. Mr. Tanner came immediately into the new church negotiations. The site for the new church was decided on and after considerable discussion the Finance Committee's recommendations of 21st July, 1926, were agreed to. These were the result of the work of the appointed architect, Mr. Lightbody, 31 and the Finance Committee itself, and covered the matter from plans to payment. Presbytery had referred them back for some alterations to make the nave "wider and shallower" and the tower "more decorative". The actual recommendations are interesting : 1. The adoption of a plan with a tower and subject to slight alterations in the back rooms as suggested by Mr. Lightbody, and with the addition of outhouses. 2. Cost to approximately £4,50O including heating. 3. To seat three hundred and fifty four people. 4. Apply as soon as possible for Synod grant of £850. 5. Commence thorough canvass for subscriptions. 6. Lists to be prepared before the forthcoming annual social. 7. Mr. Mackie deputed to support the minister at the social. 8. Subscriptions to be either in one sum or spread over twelve months. 9. Lists of members and adherents, with addresses, to be prepared. 10. The congregation to be urged to raise the money before 1927 annual meeting and social. 11. Tenders not to be called until 60$ of the cost in hand. 12. Finance Committee empowered to initiate fund raising schemes. The Finance Committee was nothing if not thorough in its planning. Application was made through Presbytery for a special Synod grant of £850, and envelopes were procured for building fund subscriptions. The Southland Building Society notified its willingness to consider loan money at 6% and another firm at 6½%. The Presbytery was asked for authority to borrow as approved by the congregation; the Deacons' Court gave the Building Committee authority to call tenders, the 60% recommendation having been rescinded and some other minor amendments made. On 12th October, 1927, some fifteen tenders were considered, five of them being below £4,000, the remainder more than that amount. The tender of McDonald and Sutherland for £3,844.15.0. was accepted and building commenced. An offer by Mr. J.A. Tait to loan £2,000 for ten years at 5½% was accepted. About this time a Presbytery visitation took place and in its report " ..... warmly commends the congregation on the steps that have been taken to replace the present inadequate church building with the fine edifice that is shortly to be erected, and the generous support that has been given to this scheme". Mr. Inglis, the original Session Clerk, asked to be relieved of this 32 position, Mr. J.R. Eadie being appointed to succeed him. A minor point was the alteration of the service times on account of the passing of the Daylight Saving Bill. The choir was spoken to about the congestion they caused on the front porch before the service. The Session minutes briefly record the laying of the foundation stone on 7th December, 1927, but the Southland Times of the; following morning gives a very much fuller account of the ceremony. Under the heading, - "New Church. Important Ceremony. Laying of Foundation Stone of North Invercargill Presbyterian Church", the following appears, - "Last evening marked one of the most important events which have occurred in the life of the North Invercargill Presbyterian Church, the laying of the foundation stone of their new building. Strenuous efforts on the part of the congregation have at last been rewarded and now a noble edifice is being erected in Windsor Street, adjacent to the old church". "The ceremony was an impressive one and the pastor, Mr. W. Tanner, presided over a gathering of some four hundred people. The service commenced with the opening sentences : 'Except the Lord build the House, they labour in vain that build it'. 'Behold I lay in Zion a chief corner-stone, elect, precious, and he that believeth on Him shall not be confounded. 'Other foundation can no man lay than that is laid, which is Jesus Christ'. Several hymns were sung : 'This stone to Thee in faith we lay'; 'The Church's one foundation'; and 'Our God, our help in ages past'. The Rev. Gardiner, of St. Andrew's Church, read the lessons, Ezra 3, 9-11, and Psalm 84. Rev. M.A. Gow, Moderator of the Presbytery, congratulated the congregation on launching out on their expedition of faith. The new church would signify the extension of the kingdom of God and the establishment of his reign. A great sacrifice had been made by the congregation but the best things in life were attained only by sacrifice. This was indeed an enterprise which did nothing but promise well for the future. As time went on greater demands would be made without doubt, but he felt sure that the people of North Invercargill would emerge victorious, whatever trials they might have. Mr. Gow concluded his inspiring address with the bestowing of his blessing on the church and people”. "Mr. A. Inglis, M.A., M.Sc., was by the unanimous decision of the congregation the one chosen to perform the laying of the stone, as he had 33 grown old in the service of the church, and was one of its earliest members. Mr. Inglis gave a brief outline of the history of the church and surprised his listeners with the information that it was originally built in 1905 because the roads were too bad for people to attend the services in town. The old building was, however, not destined to serve its purpose long for, in 1911, it was burned to the ground. Not to be daunted, however, the members took up temporary premises in the Public School, until in 1913, the present building was opened. In July, 1914, Rev. John Collie, M.A., took up his duties there and remained a popular minister until 1925 when he answered a call to Queenstown. Mr. Collie's period of eleven years was one of prosperity and growth and marked a happy decade in the history of the church. In May, 1926, came Rev. W.Tanner from St. Peter's, Christchurch, in answer to a. call. Mr. Inglis then placed the stone in position and declared it well and truly laid". "Rev. C.J. Tocker, of St. Paul's Church, declared that he was present in a dual capacity, in that he was representing the Presbytery and also St. Paul's, the mother of the North Invercargill Church. He congratulated the people on their past work, but more especially on the magnificence of the occasion and what it stood for. 'It is a great day for you’, declared Mr. Tocker, 'after the inconvenience of your old building you will be most comfortable in the new one. It will mean much to your congregational life, and you will enjoy better conveniences and equipment. But your work must not cease and you must carry it on to whatever heights it is possible to reach'. He went on to say that bricks and mortar do not make a church, but the spirit with which they are moulded. 'Think out your spiritual purpose arid work. Take hold of the mind and the will and the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ. You must lengthen your cords and strengthen your stakes'. Mr. Tocker further felicitated the congregation and pronounced a blessing on them and their undertaking". "Rev. R. Mackie, Moderator of the Synod, who had, prior to the laying of the foundation stone, offered a prayer of dedication, also spoke, referring to the conditions of church - going some sixty years ago, and how the charge of Invercargill's first church was taken over by Rev. Andrew Stobo in June, 1860. He was inducted by men who had to ride from Dunedin for the purpose. 'It was a great day then' , said Mr. Mackie, 'it is a great day now'. On behalf of the Synod of Otago and Southland, and remembering the pioneers of the Church and their trials, he congratulated Mr. Tanner, his office-bearers and his congregation on this great start of theirs". "An offertory was taken up amounting to the satisfactory sum of

34 £41.10.6. The choir, under Mr. Burns, rendered an anthem. Apologies of absence were received from Revs. J, Lawson Robinson and Thomson (Kennington), and from Mr. J.L. Watson. A telegram which had been, received from Rev. J. Collie was read. 'Hearty congratulations and good wishes for your advance'. The ceremony closed with the Benediction". The inscription on the foundation stone is as follows :— To the Glory of God, This stone was laid by Alex. Inglis, M.A., M.Sc., on December 7th, 192? Rev. W. Tanner, Minister, N.R. Lightbody, Architect McDonald and Sutherland, Builders The resignation of Mr. Inglis from the position of Session Clerk marked the close of something of an era in North Invercargill Church affairs, a fact recognised by the Session in a special minute. "The Session desires to place on record its deep appreciation of the long and faithful services rendered by Mr. A. Inglis to this church. From its very inception he has given his time and talents in earnest and consecrated effort to extend the Kingdom of God in this place. We remember with gratitude his services as Clerk of our Session, Superintendent and Teacher in the Sabbath School, and that readiness to serve in every way the interests of our church. Now having gone from our midst he has left with us memories redolent with the graciousness of his spirit and, while we shall miss the valued wisdom of his counsel and guidance, our sincere prayer is that God's richest blessing- will abide with him and Mrs. Inglis through all the days to come, for we can say with sincerity, ‘We thank God for every remembrance of you'". The opening of the new church building on 18th April, 1928, is recorded in the church books in only the barest detail. The Southland Times of 19th April, 1928, gives quite a full account of the ceremony which is of some interest. Under the heading, "A Step Forward. Presbyterian Church. Dedication of New Building. Ceremony at North Invercargill", the following account was published. "Although the new church, a handsome building of brick erected by the North Invercargill Presbyterian congregation, has seating accommodation for fully four hundred and fifty, every seat was filled and forms and chairs had to be requisitioned to seat the large crowd of people who were present at the dedication last evening". "Before entering the church, however, despite the rather wintry conditions prevailing, an interesting ceremony occurred when the church 35 doors were formally thrown open. Mr, John Officer, on behalf of the Building Committee, handed over the keys of the church to the Moderator, and Mrs. Tulloch turned the key in the lock. Mr, A. Officer, a member of the first Session, in declaring the church open, briefly sketched the growth of the church from its small beginnings to this latest step of progress. In various ways, the accommodation in the church had been enlarged during the ministry of Rev, John Collie, M.A., the preceding minister, but finally the congregation had outgrown the old building and the present one was the result. Mr. Officer then threw the doors open. An inspiring service followed. Hymns were sung and Rev. John Chisholm, Moderator of the Synod, read the Scripture lesson from I Kings 8, 27-43. The Te Deum was then sung by the choir". "Rev. John Collie, M.A., the former minister of the church and at present officiating at Queenstown, in his address said that they had met there for the purpose of dedicating the new church. Dedication was an immemorial custom but it had its dangers. Strictly speaking, it was contrary to the Protestant religion because all places were of the same holiness. Over dedication was the sign of a decadent worship. Christ, himself, delivered his message by the wayside and under the open sky. Henry Drummond once said that churches were a sign of spiritual infirmity; but, if so, they were a help to the infirmity. This true consecration of that church would come when it could be thought of as a scene of real experience. There might be discouragement in what he said. Many might think that it would take many years before the church would be fully consecrated, that it would need long years of hallowed experience. That was parlly so, but every opening of the heart, every act of complete devotion made the place holier. It rested with them to make the church consecrated for themselves and their followers by real and true devotion." "Rev. E.G. Evans, Moderator of the Presbytery, in a dedicatory prayer and address, consecrated the building for holy use. After the benediction had been delivered by Rev. W. Tanner, those present adjourned to the North Invercargill Public Hall where a social evening was held." "Rev. W. Tanner presided and addresses of congratulation were delivered by Revs. A. McBean, President of the Ministers' Association, E.G. Evans and M.A. Gow. A varied and much appreciated programme was given including, song, Miss M. Anderson; duet, Misses McDowell and Pert; duet, Miss Anderson and Mr. Farley; Miss Edie acting as accompanist. Appreciation was expressed of the work of the architect, Mr. N. Lightbody, and the

36 builders, Messrs. McDonald and Sutherland, and comprehensive votes of thanks were passed to all who helped in the building, particularly the Building Committee, and to those ladies and gentlemen who had contributed various articles towards the furnishing of the church. Refreshments were served at the close of what was a most inspiring culmination to several years work," On the following Sunday Rev. W. Tanner preached the first sermon in the newly opened church and this service was marked bythe Sacrament of the Lord's Supper. With the new church opened and in use the Church Courts were occupied with the many administrative details involved in the life of a growing congregation. The records show that Mr. Ballantyne was appointed organist in place of Miss Pert and that Mr. F.R. Tucker took over almost a year later. The resignation of Mr. J.R. Eadie as Session Clerk resulted in the appointment of Mr. H. Murray on 24th April, 1928. A new organ was purchased from Beggs at a cost of £75. Both the minister and the caretaker were insured. The congregation were asked to provide their own hymn books. The new envelope system was again recommended to the congregation and some forty two new subscribers were gained. Mr. G. Skipworth reported on arrangements for a Men's Dinner at the Federal Tearooms at 7-00 p.m. on Wednesday, 12th September, 1928 - tickets 2s.6d. Unfortunately there were some defects in the new church building and legal advice was sought as to the best method of dealing with the matter, it being agreed to withhold all moneys until such time as satisfaction was obtained. During the next year or two there was quite a deal of discussion regarding the most suitable position for the pulpit and the best arrangement for the choir and the organ. The Sunday School was given more seating but soon found itself requiring more room. One item of passing interest was concerning the insurance of the minister who was insured against accident and scheduled sicknesses because an all sickness policy had too many restrictions. The premium for this policy was £4.10.0. per annum. Choirmasters also seem to have been at a premium for there was another change. Notwithstanding the various tribulations the report of the Presbyterial Visitation in October, 193O, " ... notes with pleasure the strong Bible Class movement containing six classes with a roll of eighty six and a large Sunday School with twenty one teachers. It commends the P.W.M.U., the Ladies' Guild, Busy Bees and other organizations for their energetic effort to extend the church. It congratulates the congregation on their superb set of buildings 37 and on their liberality to the church and its schemes". The defects in the church building were apparently remedied because the Deacons' Court paid the architect and the builders in full and then had a balance of £229.15-0. which was left in the Building Fund Account. At the 1931 Annual Congregational Meeting Rev. Professor Collie was present and during the proceedings received a silver-mounted and initialled umbrella as a token of the esteem in which the congregation held their former minister. Rev, Tanner paid warm tribute to Rev. Professor Collie, congratulating him on attaining two positions of eminence which his scholarship and fitness would enable him to fill with distinction. Typed copies of the Session Annual Report as mementoes were given to Rev. Collie and posted to Mr. A. Inglis, former Session Clerk. The continued growth of the parish was indicated by a Deacons' Court recommendation to the Session that the Court be increased in number. The matter of storing records was early recognised and the Court decided to compile a record of all deeds, minute books, etc., and to insert a copy of such record in both Deacons' Court and Session minute books, the records themselves to be lodged in the manse safe. 1932 has the first recorded reference to Church Union in that the Session favoured the opening of conversations with the ultimate view of corporate union. The Session also agreed to grant a possible request to broadcast services from North Church. In February of this year Mr. C.W. Francis took up the duties of Session Clerk from Mr. H. Murray. Mr. Francis was to hold this position for many years. This, too, was a depression period and the Deacons' Court decided against approaching the minister with reference to a reduction in stipend, but it did decide to try to economise on lighting and to obtain voluntary pulpit supply. The Session recorded its appreciation of the splendid result achieved in altering the pulpit. It also approved the formation of a Boys' Brigade with Mr. A.H. Whyte as captain and Mr. J. McAlister as lieutenant. A combined picnic was proposed and favourably reported on. The Ladies' Guild asked that all their moneys be directed to the Building Fund only. It is obvious that the ladies had an eye to the future. The depression began to show its effects and it is recorded that the minister, the caretaker and the organist were all agreeable to a 10% reduction in their salaries. At the same time an offer was made of a reduced percentage interest rate on loaned money. Two legacies, in the next year or 38 two, tendered to offset matters, £1,000 from the estate of Mrs. L.M. Tulloch and £200 from Mrs. Gray's estate. The larger amount was to be applied equally to church and to Sunday School funds. The connection of church and school was again brought into focus when the Education Board once again requested temporary accommodation in the church buildings. The women of the church were, as always, active as shown by a £25 donation to the Interest and Building Fund. At the name time they advised of their intention to raise funds to provide cushions for the church seats and they requested permission to place a donation box in the vestibule. Needless to say their donation was appreciated and their intention and request approved. There was much consideration given to mortgage reduction and how to achieve it in the face of reduced sustention and collections. The whole congregation received a great shock when they learned of the sudden passing of Rev. William Tanner on the afternoon of 13th June, 1938. The Session Report for 1938 under the heading, "Minister", has this to say. "A year of progress is seldom without shadows as well as sunshine. On Sunday, June 12th, a memorable communion service was held, and at this service eleven young men from the Bible Classes joined the Fellowship of the Church. This service was a wonderful uplift for the congregation and an inspiring day for the minister, Rev. Wm. Tanner. Before the next day had closed, we were shocked to hear that our Pastor had passed away. We place on record here our appreciation of our late Pastor's consistent preaching of the Gospel and his efforts to extend his and our Master's Kingdom." Previous Session Reports of Mr. Tanner's twelve year sojourn at North Church all refer with appreciation to Mr. Tanner's pulpit work and the study he put into it, and to his zeal and enthusiasm for the other, often arduous aspects, of his work. During Rev. Tanner's ministry the church membership increased, Bible Class and Sunday School work developed and the various other church organizations all functioned strongly, and all this in spite of the depression years which had a marked effect on life in general. The new church had been built and occupied. Collections and sustentation, in spite of the depression showed an increase, and the church Courts were looking to the future on account of the rapidly increasing numbers. It is interesting to note that the Baptists offered the services of their minister to conduct a service in an emergency at this time. The "Lady of the Manse", Mrs. Tanner, gave of her time and strength far beyond the sphere of the manse. She gave devoted service in all branches 39 of church work, particularly in the choir, the Sewing Guild, the P.W.M.U., and the P.A. She also gave assistance as a Sunday School teacher. The congregation was pleased when Mrs. Tanner moved only a short distance away and continued her interests in church life. Later, Mrs. Tanner and her daughter, Miss Muriel Tanner, presented Mr. Tanner's pulpit gown to the church. A tablet in the church itself and a photo in the Bible Class room mark this period. These were dedicated at a memorial service on 26th March, 1939, conducted by Revs. C.J. Tocker and J. Collie. REV. HUGH GRAHAM'S MINISTRY At the request of the Session, Presbytery appointed Rev. C.J. Tocker, of St. Paul's Church, Interim Moderator for the vacancy during which North Church was fortunate in having Rev. A.C. Wedderspoon as supply. Mr. Wedderspoon conducted his pulpit work with enthusiasm and was zealous in his efforts in carrying out the pastoral work. After six months, at the end of 1938, a congregational meeting approved the insertion in the call of the name of the Rev. Hugh Graham of Mosgiel. Two months later Rev. Graham had indicated his acceptance and. intimated that he would be free to take up his duties on 28th March, 1939. The Moderator of the Presbytery, Rev. E.B. Stevenson, conducted Rev. Graham's induction service, where Rev. L. Kernohan preached and Rev. C.J. Tocker addressed the minister and the congregation. Rev. Hugh Graham was born in Scotland but had gone to Canada and had interrupted his university studies to go to the Great War. Returning from the war, he resumed his studies and served in several Canadian charges before going back to Scotland, whence he came to New Zealand, to be inducted into the Teviot Parish, Roxburgh, Central Otago, in May, 1928. In 1931 he moved to Mosgiel. During Rev. Tanner's ministry there had been discussions on the many and heavy demands on the minister and it had been agreed that he should be freed from presiding over Deacons' Court meetings when necessary, that he should not have to shake hands with the increasing numbers of worshippers at every service, and that he should receive greater assistance from his office-bearers In the matters of new arrivals, members in circumstances requiring visiting and so on. Rev. Graham was happy to accept the arrangements in the main as the responsibilities of, and calls on, the minister were in no way lessening. 40 There were still a few of what seemed to be developing into hardy perennials to be dealt with. The choir seating still seemed not to be satisfactory; the position of the pulpit was again under discussion; the leakage from the Oamaru stone surround to the west window had recurred. On top of these matters it was decided to provide a literature rack in the vestibule, but that the time was not opportune for the purchase of a new organ, although it was suggested to the choirmaster that a New Organ Fund be established. This latter matter was highlighted by an offer from First Church of their pipe organ for £100. At first the Deacons' Court thought this too much but, early in 1940, they approved the purchase of the instrument. It was to be installed for £28 and provided with an electric blower for £80.10.0., but any additional electrical installation and structural costs were not included in these amounts. The old church organ was to go to the Bible Class room and the organ from there to the Sunday School. There were difficulties, however, over the electric blower for the new organ and for the time being it was supplied with air by the efforts of an organ blower - a boy. At the same time the Deacons' Court was investigating means of providing additional Sunday School accommodation and towards the end of 1940 McDonald and Sutherland's tender of £1,250 was accepted and the work put in hand. Galvanised corrugated roofing iron was difficult to obtain during the war so fibrolite was suggested as a substitute. Some of the roof trusses of the Sunday School hall itself were found to require replacement so that was attended to and a stage was erected, using some of the old timber. The new additions were opened on 5th April, 19^1, but it was found that gas heating could not be employed as gas heaters were just not available. The question of systematic giving was encouraged by the introduction of the Duplex Envelope System in July, 1941. The spiritual needs of the congregation were brought into sharp focus by a Christian Order Campaign, the committee for which consisted of representatives of all church organizations.The war conditions were indicated in a Ladies' Guild report to the Deacons' Court that they were sending away some forty-nine parcels each month; and, in 1942, Mr. A.D. Paterson took up the position of Superintendent of the Sunday School, but his release from Home Guard duties had to be obtained to enable him to do so. Further, the Session experimented with a 4.00 p.m. service to avoid difficulties with the black-out regulations; the attendance was unsatisfactory and a reversion to 6.30 p.m. was made when lighting conditions permitted; but, at the same time, the Deacons' Court gave consideration to the blacking-out of the Sunday School Hall. 41

nal Centrefold Drawing (reduced) Drawing Centrefold nal Origi

42

The Church itself was growing up in spite of war - time difficulties and was arriving at a stage where it could look back along the road it had traversed. The death, in August, 1942, in Dunedin, of Mr. A. Inglis brought this home. Mr. Inglis, as will have been realised, had much to do with the establishment of North Invercargill Church and with its early beginnings. Mrs. Inglis had predeceased her husband by some three years. *(See page 85) 1945 saw matters improving. It was decided to raise the stipend. At the same time the Deacons' Court suggested shortening the morning service and, by the inclusion of solos, .instrumental as well as vocal, brightening the evening service. The non-installation of the electrical organ blower resulted in some minor difficulties for the organist who wrote Io the Deacons' Court requesting information under four headings-the Court's answers are given in parenthesis : (a) Official Organ Blower, is there one or two? (One, and giving a name) (b) Is the Official Organ Blower to blow at all times? (Yes, if available) (c) Whose duty is it to advise Blower that his duties will be required? (Clerk's) (d) If Official Organ Blower is not available, whose duty is it to secure a substitute? (Clerk's) A subsequent ruling, that it was the responsibility of the minister to find an organ blower when such functionary was required for weddings, together with the foregoing, possibly resulted in a proposal for a meeting between a representative of a Christchurch organ firm and Court representatives with special reference to the provision of an electrical blower. It was rather ironic that the firm's representative, probably due to some misunderstanding, tuned the organ instead of discussing the "blower" question. It may or may not have been the result of all this, but the organ blower sent in his resignation and it was a couple of years before the electric blower was installed. One of the problems tackled by the Session and, for that matter, the whole Church in general, was the re-establishment of contacts with ex- servicemen and the greater participation by laymen in all phases of church work. This was to be a continuing challenge to all church members, but it was tackled with vigor and no little measure of success. Nevertheless it is still with 43 us and demands attention at all times. 1946 was a year of no little importance in North Church history. The Sunday School Meeting time was changed to the morning and it was reported that there was a much better atmosphere and an increased attendance following the change. This change was to become permanent. It was again suggested by the Deacons' Court that the evening service might be arranged to include soloists both vocal and instrumental. The Session had authorised the purchase of a roll of honour in 194. The Deacons' Court decided that a roll of honour be compiled, but there does not appear to be any evidence of any such action having been done. The only record appears to be in the form of a printed card. It is not clear by whom this list was compiled, but it was used at ¥omen's Prayer Meetings during the war years, and may contain names of people not directly connected with North Presbyterian Church, but for whom North Church people wished prayers to be offered. The card from which the names were obtained belongs to Mrs. H. Graham, and is headed "Our Prayer List", with the following at the top, "It is according to God's will that supplications and prayers and intercessions and thanksgivings will be made for all men, but especially for those who are of the Household of Faith". "Keep our loved ones, now far absent, 'neath Thy care’". Then follow the names exactly as on the printed list:- Atley, Bill Cook, Bill Fox, Albert Atley, Bob Cooper, Allan Cooper, Fox, Corporal Jack Ballantyne. Allan Bill Fraser, Hugh Barclay, David Cran, Franklin. France, Jack Beal, Len Crawford, L.W. Fraser, Wm Beal, Ossie Crofts, Edward Frew, Eric Beer, Aubrey Crosland, Cyril Galloway, Jim Bell, Sister Davidson, Samuel Gaw, Cormack Bloy, Les. Dawson, Bruce Georgeson, Syd. Blue, Rob Dawson, Jack Gilchrist, Ray Bolger, Eric Denton, Harry Gow, Walter Bolger, Victor Donnelly, Rob. Gary, Rob Brosnan, Leonard Drummonds, Jack Groffiths, Padre Brown, Russell Eason, Bill Gubb, Lawrence Campbell, Bill Edwards, Bill Halliday, Bruce Campbell, David Eunson, Frank Hamilton, James Carrick, Jack Farquharson, Charlie Hazeldine, Val. Clarke, Hilton Farquharson, George Humphries, Jack Clode, Morgan Fenton, Jim Hunt, Stabley Cockerell, Alan Findlay, Charlie Irving, Fred 44 Irving, Philip Jack, Charlie Middlemiss, Bert Sage, Clive Jones, Jack Miller, Gascoigne Sangster, Lex Jones, Tom Mitchell, Bob Scott, Oliver Jones, William Mitchell, Desmond Scott, Percy Kent, Norman Mitchell, Roy Shirley, Cliff Kerr, Redge Moore. Colin Shirley, Cyril Kerse, Sgt.Major C.A. Morton, Leslie Shuttleworth, Herbert Lilley, Sgt. Mullen, Ernest Smith, Harry Lockie, Jack Myers, Pat Smith, Murray Lorimer, Jim Park, Douglas Smith, Walter Mclntyre, Colin Penman, Frank Spence, Billy Manson, Major Perriam, Ritchie Speirs, lan Martin, Colin Pickard, Jack Spence, Ronnie Mathieson, Arch Pickford, Jack Spence, Russell Mathieson, lan Poole, Nursing Sister Stevens, Arthur McAlister, Bruce Poole, Harold Stewart, Albert McArrhur, Peter Poole, George Stewart, Alex. McCallum, John Prentice, Bob Stewart, Owen McCartney, James Prentice, Laurie Stewart, Tom McCrostie, Jack Price, Malcolm Stirling, Fraser McDonald, Alick Ramsay, Bob Stott, Walter McDonald, Max Ritchie, Sgt. Sutton, Ron McFarlane, Andrew Robertson, Fred Swale, Andrew McKenzie, Colin Rodgers, Sid. Swale, Charlie McLauchlan, E.J. Roe, Charlie Thompson, Murray McLauchlan, Graham Ross, Ken Todd, Allan McLauchlan, Keith Ross, Sandy Weir, Lt./Col. C.E. McLauchlan, Paul Ryan, Bruce Wilson, Garfield Melrose, Jack Ryan, Gordon Wilson, Hugh Meredith, John Ryan, Sid. Witt, Graham Young, Stanley At the bottom of the card, "Please leave this card in the Church". On the back the following names in ink :- Hazlett, Noeline Mitchell, Alma Martin, Hazel Mathieson, Adin Crawford, Andy Maxted, Francis Jackson, Ted Mitchell, laxi Botting, Jim Fletcher, Tom Herbison, Graham Swale, Will. Gray, Cyril Witting, Eric Price, Nelson Speirs, Norman

45 The gift a half acre section in Herbert Street for Church Extension by Mr. D, Wight in 1946 appears to be the practical commencement of the Waverley Church, a matter which was to concern North Church greatly for the next nine years. The location of the original gift seems to have been too near the First Church Extension to be acceptable to Synod, however, arrangements were made with the donor whereby a similar but more suitable site was obtained. Possibly the most important happening of the year, 1946, was the acceptance, in November, by Rev. Graham of a call to St. George's Church, Christchurch. Mr. Graham had served the parish from March, 1939, for a period of about seven and a half years, including the war years. According to the General Assembly's Blue Books, during that time the number of persons under pastoral care rose from five hundred to one thousand one hundred, the attendance at public worship from three hundred and fifty to five hundred, the communicant membership from two hundred and thirty seven to four hundred and forty, while there was a strong Bible Class movement of some eighty four young people and a Sunday School of two hundred and thirty nine children. The strength of the church Courts had been increased, the Session from twelve to eighteen, and the Deacons' Court from nine to fourteen. Stipend had been increased almost 50%. Collections and sustentation almost doubled from £525 to £912, an interesting feature being the increase in envelope giving from £131 to £394. The foregoing are definite evidence of the rapid growth of North Invercargill and show that North Church was accepting the challenge with no little measure of success. Rev. Hugh Graham had a fluent, lively style coupled with a homely Scottish accent and his turn of phrase made him a popular speaker both in his own church and elsewhere and also over the air. At the farewell all the church organizations joined in whole hearted tribute to the work done during the period of his ministry. That Mr. Graham had some little personal idiosyncrasies only served to make him more likeable and certainly well remembered by all of those who know him. Mrs. Graham could be truly said to have had the gift of words. Her fluent speech and deep sincerity made her a popular speaker at women's meetings. A particular interest. of hers was Missions, - "Other sheep I have which are not, of this fold, them also must I bring", being a favourite text. During the war years Mrs. Graham was unfailing in the love and comfort she brought to many wives and mothers, her mid-weekly prayer meetings were faithfully conducted and well attended. While at North manse, Mrs. Graham 46 was elected Dominion President of the P.W.M.U. Mrs. Graham was greatly appreciated, REV. A.D. ROBERTSON'S MINISTRY AND THE DEVELOPMENT_OF WAVERLEY The church was without a minister for six months from December, 1946, until May, 1947, Rev. J.A. Thomson of First Church being the Interim Moderator and Rev. G.P. Mitchell acting as supply, filling the pulpit most acceptably and doing a considerable amount of visiting. In due course the name of Rev. A.D. Robertson, B.A., of Shirley-Richmond, Christchurch was inserted in the call and, on his acceptance, Mr. Robertson's induction took place on 22nd May, 1947. Rev. Robertson came to the ministry from the commercial world. He attended Otago University, where he gained his B.A. degree, and the Theological Hall, Knox College. He was ordained in 1940 and inducted to the charge of St. Columba, Shirley-Richmond, Christchurch. Before coming to North Invercargill he had seen overseas service with the Third Division in the Pacific area. He had experience on a number of Assembly Committees and had served on several local church and community organizations. The rapidly expanding North Invercargill parish imposed . considerable responsibilities on the newly appointed minister and called for great and sustained effort from him. Mr.Robertson was to prove himself equal to the task. The matter of the siting of the Waverley sections was successfully concluded. Additional seating was obtained for North Church. An anonymous donor gave the price of a film projector for the Sunday School, Information was sought regarding suitable types of hearing aids. Various smaller matters engaged the attention of the church Courts; the church heater was filling the building with smoke and the borer was attacking the manse; the deacons were to stand for the dedication of the offering; and there was a suggestion of a change of name for the church, say, St. David's or something similar. Such was the expansion of North Invercargill and so great the demands on the time and strength of the minister that urgent consideration was given to means of meeting the situation. After considerable discussion the Session requested the Deacons' Court to consider the practicability of appointing a deaconess, and the minister and Mr. Leadbetter were requested to bring the matter before the congregation. The Deacons' Court drew attention to the practical factor of finance in a special, very comprehensive report on church- giving under a number of headings. The congregational meeting gave the 47 idea support in principle and in due course Miss Helen Dewar was invited to take up the position of Deaconess to the North Invercargill Presbyterian Church. Miss Dewar accepted. Miss Dewar's arrival was delayed by illness but she was ultimately welcomed on 14th April, 1948, when Revs. Robertson, J.A. Thomson and C.J. Tocker officiated. After a six months probationary period Miss Dewar's ordination and induction was conducted by Rev. Dr. J.D. Salmond and later Sister E. Campbell presented the new deaconess with her badge of office. This year saw further increased giving both in cash and by envelopes, and the Ladies Guild made another donation of £50. North Church was placed on the roll for broadcast services in the next year. The matter of Church Union came to the fore and a congregational vote showed that Presbyterians, of North Invercargill, at least, were by no means unanimous. The Boys' Brigade, which had been in recess, was to be restarted. It was decided to shift the organ and to raise both it and the choir seating. Hearing aids were installed. A bicycle was purchased for the Deaconess's use, The conduct of the Y.M.C.A. young people's dances came in for considerable discussion and criticism. Discussion as to the form of the War Memorial took place and an illuminated plaque inset in the west wall was recommended. The strength of the Bible Classes again in 1949 focused attention on accommodation; there were five Y.M.B.Cs. and five Y.W.B.Cs., and it was suggested that the Sunday School be divided into two by curtains, and two rooms erected at its west end. Sundry repairs were necessary after a fire had caused damage to the kitchen in the Sunday School, the manse was "boracured", but alterations to choir and organ arrangements were held over pending a solution to the "blower" problem. The War Memorial plaque recommendation was approved and the finished memorial was unveiled on Sunday, 23rd April, 1950. The inadequate size of the communion table inspired the generous gift of a larger table by Mr. and Mrs. T. Wilson, in memory of their son, Lindsay. An innovation in the 1949 Annual Report was the reproduction of photographs of the Session and Deacons' Court. In view of the rapidly changing personnel of the Courts, as well as their numerical size, it might well be repeated for the benefit of the equally changing church membership . Church Extension in the Waverley area commenced in real earnest in 195O. Late in 1949 the Assembly's Church Worship and Architecture Committee had been approached for plans to suit the requirements. There was an anonymous gift of £500 towards the future building at Waverley. A 48 survey of the area was initiated and the sections fenced. It was decided that the time had come for building and a two thousand square feet building, to cost approximately £4,500, in the form of a hall which could be used as a church, was envisaged. Sister HeIen Dewar was appointed to take particular oversight of the Waverley area. Domestic affairs were not neglected. A book display shelf was approved for the church vestibule; the heating of the Sunday School by gas was considered; an electric mower was purchased; and rough plans for the alteration of the front of the church were displayed. A £100 Willina Fraser bequest was earmarked for improvements to choir seating and alterations to the pulpit. The New Life Survey in 1951 showed that there were, in the parish, many Presbyterian families with little or no church connection. The New Life Fund received promises of £5,027, and £1,560 was actually handed in; £1,000 of this latter sum being forwarded to the General Treasurer of the Presbyterian Church in Wellington. Book of Order changes authorized the compiling of church rolls in three categories (i) Church Members; (ii) Adherents; (iii) Presbyterian families in neither (i) or (ii). Waverley occupied much of the time of both church Courts. Architects' plans were submitted but only one, that of Miller, Whyte and Dunn of Dunedin, was subject to alterations by either Deacons' Court or committee, and so it was accepted subject to the scrutiny of both. The cost appeared to be going to be between £5,000 and £6,000, but promises amounted to some £5,000 so arrangements were considered to execute a mortgage and to apply to Synod and to Presbytery for grants of £500 and £50 respectively. At the same time a provisional building permit was applied for in order to permit of the calling of tenders. Waverley was, at that time, thought of primarily as a youth centre, but fortnightly services, not to clash with Methodist services, would probably be commenced, and arrangements were made to commence Sunday School work in a private home. The Ladies' Guild forwarded a cheque for £200 to the Deacons' Court for improvements to the pulpit end of the church; this had been a recurring problem for quite a few years in both church buildings, and, though apparently solved from time to time, came up again like the hardy perennial it developed into. The matter of Sunday School heating by electricity seemed to be the only satisfactory method but it. was held over in favour of gas in the meantime any way. The church heater was found to be in bad repair and it was decided to consult with the City Electrical Engineer regarding electrical 49 heating for the church proper. Just for good measure Chas. Begg and Co. reported that the organ was not in very good condition and a committee was set up to consider the purchase of a new organ; this, too, was to develop perennial characteristics. Lastly, the choirmaster was very exercised about the lack of support for the choir; he considered that it was less than adequate for a congregation the size of North Church. This may have influenced Mr. A.H. Partridge's resignation from the position of choirmaster in 1952. He had held the position since 1947- The accommodation situation at North Church was causing concern. This problem was met in two ways. The first of these was the establishment of two morning services and the second involved structural alterations to include in the church proper two small rooms at the east end of the building. There was considerable discussion on both these matters in view of the extension in Waverley but Rev. Robertson assured the Courts that, as only about twenty people attended North Church from the east of Abbott Street, there would be little appreciable effect on North Church itself, and so discussions continued. One church member made a donation of £1,000 with the proviso that at least some of it should be used to provide additional seating in the church. A committee was set up to investigate the problem and suggest a solution with the costs involved. This committee reported that to increase the seating by an additional seventy seats would cost between £2,000 and. £3,000, but there was difference of opinion regarding the placing of choir, organ and pulpit. It appeared that there would not be room for a manse on the Waverley site so approval for the purchase of a site at the corner of Herbert and Ward Streets was sought. Plans and specifications for the Waverley Church had reached the stage where tenders could be called. The North Church New Life Fund had received a further £2,312 of the amount originally promised. Again £1,000 was forwarded to Wellington, but £1,000 was set aside for Waverley. The chairman of the Waverley Extension Committee suggested, about the beginning of 1952, that building costs would go down in twelve months time and counselled against undue haste, but Rev, Robertson was of the opinion that urgent needs should not be offset against finance. However, the fiancial climate tightening up the money market and a decreased rate of building towards the end of the year decided the Courts to invite Rev. A.D. Horwell, the General Assembly's Director of Home Ministry, to meet them the following February, and to be guided by his advice. The organ problem was still in the melting pot. The Dunedin expert, a

50 Mr. Alden, disagreed with Chas. Begg and Co., reporting that an expenditure of £70, would put the organ into good shape for a number of years and that with regular tuning it would not need a major overhaul for at least ten years. The Deacons' Court took him at his word and engaged him to tune the organ regularly. At the same time they recognised another matter was coining along when they decided to set up a fund to provide for new heating.

Before the 1957 Alterations

1953 saw the purchase of a Waverley manse site, another £1,000 New Life Funds forwarded to Wellington and a £100 donation from the Ladies' Guild to be divided equally between the Organ and Heater Funds. It also saw a definite interest in Waverley by the Presbytery Church Extension Committee. The planned visit of Rev,, A.D. Horwell took place in March, 1953, and, in his inimitable way, Mr. Horwell discussed the New Life Movement from many angles, giving much information and advice. He reported that since 1949 some twenty three new parishes had been established and he gave numerous examples of details and prices of buildings. He was of the opinion that church effectiveness in a built-up area was about half a. mile in diameter. It appeared that associate ministers were not always satisfactory and, in fact, the Assembly had been requested to withdraw its regulations regarding the same. His considered opinion, with particular regard to the Waverley position, was to build a manse, then put a man into the new area

51 and leave him and his office bearers to their own initiative. In a position such as obtained he saw no difficulty in obtaining a Synod grant for the new manse. In his opinion North Church was being very fair to Waverley in giving it £5,000. He stressed "not to spoil the child" by giving Waverley everything it seemed to require or to want. Finally, he advised to go ahead with the scheme, build the church and the manse, then get a minister to do the work; but he did suggest consideration of a site for the church further north in the district. As a result of this conference and further discussion, tenders for the Waverley Church were called. That of Gray Brothers, for £7,975 was accepted and the same firm was asked to draw plans for a suitable manse. The North congregation authorised the financial arrangements, the Waverley School Committee was approached for the use of a room until such time as the new building would be ready. Consideration was given to the matter of releasing Sister Helen Dewar for work in the Waverley area exclusively, the actual services to be taken by supply except for once a month when Rev. Robertson would officiate. Waverley people, naturally, wished matters to proceed without delay. Another innovation, this time in the 1953 Annual Report, was the publication of a sketch of the proposed alterations to the front of the interior of the North Church, the main object being to provide additional seating accommodation. As mentioned before this involved the demolition of the two small rooms at the east end of the church and the incorporation of the space so obtained into the church itself. The choir was to be to the north side, the organ to the left, while a window on the north side was to be replaced by a door. This left the pulpit slightly in front of the organ. The congregation agreed to the alterations although there were some misgivings about having the choir and the organ on opposite sides of the church, but the matter was delayed on account of investigations into the best type of heating. Ultimately the Assembly's Church Worship and Architecture Committee recommended tubular heating and an installation quote for £330 was agreed to subject to favourable reports from other churches using the same system. All was in order for the alterations to be put in hand at the start of 1954. By the middle of 1954 the New Life Fund had swelled to between £5,000 and £6,000 with only something over £10O still to come in. The proposed alterations and the electrical heating system were started; but the Flower Show, which had become an annual event bringing in an average of

52 about £150, was abandoned. The alterations necessitated that services were held in the Sunday School Hall for only a couple of Sundays in July and August. A new pulpit was a very fine gift from Miss R. Henderson and her sister in memory of their mother. The Waverley matter was proceeding at speed to its natural conclusion - an independent charge with a minister of its own. The new Waverley Church Hall was formally opened and dedicated at 7.3O p.m. on 15th July, 1954, the Interim Session being Rev. T.M. McDonald, Messrs. D. McMillan and J.B. Cutt. This ceremony was very well attended and many were the comments on the fine arrangements and set-up of the hall. First Church and St. Paul's respectively presented a large music hymn book and a pulpit Bible. North Church provided communion ware. Later North gave quite a number of folding chairs, kitchen crockery and cutlery, to the value of between £60 and £70, and followed these up with a communion table and three elders' chairs. The Waverley manse site was purchased and a contract let to build the manse for £4,000. On 2nd February, 1955, Rev. Robert Wilson, M.A.,B.D., was inducted to the Waverley parish which from that date became an independent charge. There remained only the formalities which included transfers of members - North Church transferred over seventy - and of title deeds and other papers. North Invercargill Presbyterian Church, in its turn, had been abe to participate in the establishment of another centre for worship in this rapidly expanding north-eastern part of Invercargill. To quote a cliche, "The wheel seemed to have turned the full circle". Matters at North Church itself had been occupying the attention of all concerned in spite of the naturally heavy demands involved by the inauguration of Waverley. One of the rather sad occasions was when Sister Helen Dewar ceased to be deaconess. Ever since her appointment and ordination and induction in 1948, Sister Helen had proved her worth in many directions. The 1948 Session Report in commenting says: "The congregation took perhaps the most significant forward step of its history when it appointed Miss Helen M. Dewar its first deaconess. It is fitting that this advance in faith should have been made in the centennial year of Otago and Southland when the faith of the pioneers of the church was commemorated. Miss Dewar was welcomed at a gathering where the warmth of the congregation's welcome and a spirit of expectation were clearly evident. Already her work among the Youth Departments, and her visits to the homes of our members have won for her our esteem and affection. Session

53 members would congratulate her on all she is doing and the congregation on its choice". And in 1949. "Just over a year ago we 'moved forward' in faith; and feeling the needs of this growing area called Sister Helen Dewar to be its first deaconess. God has set His seal on this; for we have been abundantly blessed in her work with us ,..." In 1951. "... The wisdom of appointing a deaconess, and of the particular appointment made, has never been in doubt. It is more than ever confirmed each year". In 1954. ".....Until her transfer to Waverley, at the beginning of this year, she was associated with a number of Church organizations and was a much appreciated visitor to those who, for various reasons, were confined to their homes. She is now rendering the same valuable assistance at Waverley ...." And, finally in 1955- "With the formation of Waverley as a separate charge, Miss Dewar tendered her resignation to Session, and now is busily engaged as P.S.S.A. deaconess in Dunedin. We were most fortunate in having had Miss Dewar as our deaconess for more than six years; her devotion to her work and her association with the many activities of the congregation won for her the affection and esteem which were in particular evidence on the occasion of her farewell in December. Session has already recorded its appreciation of Miss Dewar's work, and would ask the congregation to remember her in prayer as she carries through her new responsibilities". North Church was indeed fortunate to have had Miss Dewar as a co-worker for those years. North Church, however, was more than obviously inadequate for the numbers who wished to attend worship, particularly in the Sunday mornings, and this in spite of the additional seating provided by the alterations. Consequently the Session considered, and finally approved an additional morning service at 9.30 a.m. This commenced in October, 1955 Further, youth accommodation was proving quite inadequate. Just to complicate matters the manse was badly in need of renovations and repairs, so much so, that about the end of 1954 the Ladies' Guild had given the Deacons' Court £145 "to make the manse look respectable" and this donation was followed about a year later by another £50. There was nothing for it but to face up to the situation and consider what could be done. The Deacons' Court went into the matter in detail and came up with several suggestions. An architect had suggested building in the area between the church and the Sunday School but this apparently did not appeal. So the idea of turning the manse into a youth block was investigated. This would involve costly alterations and the renting of a temporary manse until a new one could be erected. A further possibility was in the form of additions to the present hall to make it into an adequate and suitable youth 54 block., The Court recommended to the congregation that the Sunday School buildings be enlarged and added to and that the manse be repaired and modernised. This was approved and authority given to raise a mortgage of £8,000 for the work at the manse arid part of the Sunday School extensions; Presbytery was approached arid gave its permission. It is interesting to note that the ladies raised the question of the size and siting of the kitchen arrangements and they rightly requested that adequate arrangements should be provided. Of further interest is the decision that indoor bowling equipment not being used should be disposed of to the best advantage; that clerical assistance should be provided for the minister, and that a suitable Rosedale section should be acquired for ultimate extension in that area. There was some discussion regarding the single envelope system versus the duplex system. Session set up a committee to investigate and report on the evening services and the suggestions brought forward included : - films, play-reading, dialogues on vital issues, hymn singing, drama, musical evening, still pictures, silent pictures with tape recordings, Bible Class conduct of services, visiting missionaries, with or without film illustrations. The most important event of 1956 was undoubtedly the first Stewardship Campaign to bring before the congregation the idea of using their talents, time and money to the best advantage in the service of the church. This campaign, under the Chairmanship of Mr. D. McMillan, was very thoroughly organised and must be regarded as having been eminently successful. The office-bearers entered into the matter whole heartedly and attendance at public worship and numbers received into communicant membership, showed marked increases, as did the financial side of church affairs, offerings rising from about £2,000 to approximately £7,000. Of course, stewardship means giving voluntarily rather than answering appeals for funds. The improved state of the finances following the Stewardship Campaign resulted in the congregation giving approval and authorising the Deacons' Court to make the necessary additional financial arrangements, a further short-term mortgage of £5,000 and, in March, 1957, the whole of the proposed alteration and extension work commenced. Owing to the pressure of Sunday School and Bible Class accommodation needs it was arranged that the work should be done as expeditiously as possible. On 5th October, 1957, the new buildings were officially opened and, on the Session's decision, the middle hall was named the "John Collie Hall" with a tablet as follows :-

55 John Collie Hall this hall, dedicated and opened on 5th October, 1957, is named after the Very Rev. Prof. John Collie, M.A., the first minister of this Church, 1914-1925. The whole of the Sunday School was now transferred to the morning with an improved attendance of about a third on the very first day. The Session set up a committee to go into the matter of restarting the Boys' Brigade. The "Treasury" method of receiving the offerings was instituted; this method means that members place their contributions in a suitable container as they enter the church. This supersedes the method whereby office-bearers hand round collection plates and it also saves time for other parts of the service. The matter of organ replacement was still not resolved. It is recorded that an "inspection was to be made of a reasonably priced and readily available organ, but a further entry acknowledges receipt of a letter describing an electronic organ. No firm decision was taken, however. About this time the Southland Times is reported as having inquired of the Deacons' Court its intentions regarding large stocks of blank duplex envelopes. Apparently the Times had, at the Court's instigation, imported tens of thousands of blank duplex envelopes. Quite a number had been suitably printed and used by North Church but there was a larger balance of blank envelopes on the firm's hands. Neither the printed nor the blank envelopes had been paid for. This matter, due to some oversight probably, was successfully concluded by the Court discharging its indebtedness to the Times and then selling the blank envelopes to the Church Bookroom in Christchurch. The Deacons' Court did not make money on this transaction, but it cleared the matter up and disposed of a great number of locally unwanted envelopes. North Church had, by this time, adopted the single envelope system for all purposes. The Boys' Brigade was successfully re-started with Mr. C.V. Shirley as captain and Mr. Alan Cross as lieutenant. Clerical assistance was provided for the minister, and a new duplicator was purchased. The Indoor Bowls mat was sold for £25 and, it is recorded, two "Keep Clear" signs were to be obtained for use at the church on the occasion of weddings and funerals.

56 1958 was in its third quarter when Rev. Robertson, at a special meeting of the Session, intimated that he had accepted the position of Director of the Auckland P.S.S.A. He preached his .Last sermon at North Church on 19th October, 1958, and, on 28th October, a farewell social was tendered to him,

Rev. A.D. Robertson B.A. Rev. Hugh. Graham 1947 - 1958 1939 - 1946

Sister Helen Dewar 1948 - 1954 57 Mrs. Robertson and family. The Sunday School Hall was packed to the doors and, after a number of items, various speakers referred to the work of both Rev. and Mrs. Robertson and presentations were made to both of them. Presentations were also made to Alwyn, their youngest son, who had signified his intention of studying for the ministry, and to Margaret. The Session drew up a special minute, quite lengthy, for submission to the congregation which endorsed it unanimously. It extolled the zeal and enthusiasm of both the minister and his wife, their dedication to the work of the church and their untiring energy in all things pertaining to the work of the church. In the 1959 Annual Report the Session is on record as follows :- "During his relatively long ministry of eleven years, he served his Master and this congregation faithfully, zealously and vigorously, and at a time when the congregation and the district was rapidly developing." "Special features of the work in this parish during his ministry may be recalled and include :- 1. The launching of the New Life Appeal within the parish, resulting in new life within the parish and the raising of sufficient contributions to commence building operations for a new hall at Waverley, as well as sending an amount in excess of the New Life assessment of £3,850 for the wider extension work of the Church in other parts of New Zealand and overseas. 2. The establishment of the new charge at Waverley -one of the outstanding New Life areas of the Church, Waverley's membership is over two hundred members and is still growing, and the charge has been self-supporting for the last year or two. 3. The appointment of a deaconess in 1954, the appointment continuing until Waverley was established as a separate charge. 4. Substantial alterations to the interior of the Church building resulting in additional seating accommodation, and a vastly improved worshipful atmosphere. 5. Considerable additions to the Sunday School Hall, giving many additional classrooms, the provision for the sub-division of the Main Hall when needed, a new kindergarten room, the John Collie Memorial Hall, and the extension of the kitchen

58 facilities. 6. The renovation and modernising of the manse, which has brought the manse in keeping with the other parish buildings. 7. The launching of the Stewardship Programme in 1956, as a part of the natural development of the New Life Movement throughout the Church. This has resulted in much greater concern for the people within the parish area, and much greater visitation within the district by officebearers and members of the Women's Group." "In all these developments Mr. Robertson was very much to the fore, and it is indeed due to his consecrated enthusiasm that so much was accomplished. In all his work and leadership, Mr. Robertson was helped by the untiring enthusiasm and support of Mrs. Robertson." Some statistics of this eleven year period bear witness to the increased church activities in North Church. According to the Assembly's Blue Books the number of people under pastoral care increased from one thousand one hundred to two thousand one hundred and seventy five; attendance at public worship from five hundred to nine hundred; communicant membership from four hundred and seven to five hundred and seventy-one; and Bible Class from eighty-five to one hundred and thirty-eight. The Sunday School, for some reason was down from two hundred and seventy five to two hundred and forty-one. The Session was strengthened from nineteen to thirty-five, while the Deacons' Court remained at sixteen. Offerings, envelope and loose cash, in 1947 amounted to just over £760, which, with £127 sustentation, cave a total of approximately £9OO. In 1958 the offerings amounted to £7,300, loose cash £723 and envelopes £6,577, while sustentation decreased to £25. This remarkable increase was due to the Stewardship Campaign conducted in 1956; the pattern of giving was also changing, approximately nine tenths of the total being contributed through the envelopes; sustentation, from this time ceased to be a factor in the church finances. The "Lady of the Manse" of this period, Mrs. Robertson, arrived in North Invercargill with a family of four young sons at a time when the parish was developing rapidly and so her time was very fully occupied. There was considerable rejoicing when Margaret was born. Not only was this little lady a first daughter, she was also the first, and the only child, in North Church's fifty years, to have been born to a North manse family. Mrs. Robertson was particularly involved in the Stewardship Campaign when her enthusiasm and

59 long hours of clerical work had much to do with its successful outcome. She was also Interested in the women's organizations and largely due to her foresight the whole pattern of women's work changed to a "Caring-Sharing" mission for those in need. In North Church was developed the pattern for what was some six or seven years later to become, at the General Assembly's direction, throughout the Dominion, the Association of Presbyterian Women. North Church had passed through a period of rapid development not only in itself internally, but also in the wider sphere of church extension in connection with the establishment of the Waverley parish. That the efforts of the congregation in these directions met with signal success was due to God's goodness and to the dedicated service rendered by both Rev.and Mrs. Robertson, and, while she was at North, Sister Helen Dewar. CONSOLIDATION. AND THE TEAM MINISTRY. Revs. R.S. Anderson and A.J. Huston Rev. W.J. Fellow of First Church was appointed Interim Moderator of North Church, but his transfer to Seatoun, Wellington, resulted in Rev. K.D. McRae of St. Paul's taking over his moderatorial duties at North. Mr. McRae discharged his task with distinction. North Church was indeed fortunate in having, for the period of the vacancy, continuous supply from Rev. R.M. Paterson, M.A., B.D. In 1958, Mr. Paterson finished his course in the Theological Hall, Knox College, Dunedin, being awarded the Adam Begg Scholarship for further training at Princeton, U.S.A. — Mr. Paterson later took up this scholarship. It was something in the nature of a herculean effort, especially for one so young and naturally shy, to undertake this task of supply. His pulpit work was carried out with distinction. He was zealous in his visiting of the sick, the elderly, and the bereaved and won the profound appreciation of those concerned. His association with the youth work gave mutual respect, joy and affection. The congregation were indeed privileged to have him with them even if for only six months. Finance was a paramount consideration for the church Courts during the first half of 1959 and the Deacons' Court published a letter to all members and adherents, in which they listed all the main items for which North Church was financially responsible during the coming year - a budget. The details are of interest :-

60 £ 1. Southland Savings Bank interest and repayment of principal. 1,846 2. Stipend, Salaries and Travelling Expenses. 1,425 3. Missions at Home and Abroad. 1,834 4. Southland P.S.S. Association 500 5. Presbytery and Assembly Assessments. 130 6. Rent, Rates, Insurance, Repairs, Stationery, Telephone, Light and Heat, Sunday School Supplies. 825 7. Manse furnishings, Church sound system, Student Assistance. 568 8. Debit in accounts, 30th June, with special bank provision. 420 TOTAL £7,548 The insurance valuations of the various church properties had been brought up to date and were as follows s— Manse 8,000 Church 20,250 Sunday School and Hall 20,500 Contents of Church 2,500 Contents of Sunday School Hall 1,250 TOTAL £52,250 The annual collections for the previous financial year were, in cash £722.19-5. and in envelopes £6,577-13-8., a total of £7,300.13.1. The general account handled £7,752.18.9., and this figure does not include some New Life moneys and the amounts of loans on mortgage, a total debt of £12,027. £559 had been given to the P.S.S.A. and £1,211 to Assembly budget schemes. From the Assembly Blue Book it appears that there were some two thousand one hundred and seventy five persons under pastoral care, an average attendance at public worship of nine hundred, with a membership roll of five hundred and seventy one. Admissions and disjunctions just about balanced each other for the year. The Bible Class roll stood at one hundred and thirty eight and that of the Sunday School at two hundred and forty one. To attend to all the business of the church there were thirty-four elders and five deacons. From the foregoing it will be seen that North Church had grown in 61 every way from its small beginnings and it was to such a church that Rev. R.S. Anderson, B.A., of Naenae, Wellington agreed to accept a call about the middle of 1959. Before entering the ministry Mr. Anderson worked as a law clerk. However he studied at the Theological Hall, Knox College and Otago University and gained his B.A. as well as training. for his chosen profession. He spent four years on home service work during the war years and was ordained and inducted to the charge of Mangaweka in the Presbytery of Wanganui in 1949. He moved to Naenae, Lower Hutt, in July 1954. He has had experience on a number of Assembly Committees, being convener of several. Mr. Andersen's induction took place before a very large congregation on 30th July, 1959. At the subsequent social gathering Mr. Anderson likened the position to that of the marriage between Isaac and Rebecca who, although they had never seen each other, were happily married. Allowing for the figure of speech, this has indeed proved to be the case. Early in 1960 Mr. C.W. Francis indicated that he wished In resign from the position of Session Clerk, which he had held since 1932. His long and devoted service was suitably recognised. Mr. Francis continued as a member of the Session. The new Session Clerk was Mr, C.M. Broad. A second Stewardship Programme was inaugurated and successfully carried out under the chairmanship of Mr. J.B. Cutt supported by an enthusiastic committee. It was agreed that the Session should be increased from thirty two forty eight to meet the increasing demands of the situation. To ease the accommodation problem the Deacons' Court found that North Public Hall WAS available for church use on Sunday mornings and on one week-night. It was decided to advance the time of the first morning service from 9.30 a.m. by half an hour. An introduction which enabled the congregation to take a much fuller part in the communion service was the provision of order of service cards for members. Of interest was the calling of a meeting of all interested in the formation of a church indoor bowls club. Once again the matter of a change of the name of the church was discussed by the Deacons' Court but the Session decided to take no notion. Then, once again, that by now, hardy perennial, the organ, was brought forward into the discussion of the Courts. A matter to have quite far-reaching effects was the consideration of the desirability of obtaining an assistant for the minister. It was felt that the continually increasing duties were becoming too much to expect one man to be able to cope with. The Deacons' Court were requested by the Session to 62 examine the financial aspects of this. Their report suggested that the first requirement was a house, rented to start with, as buying would require a deposit and it was preferred to repay the existing short-term mortgage to the Southland Building Society before incurring further indebtedness, It was also suggested that the appointment of an assistant minister would increase general interest, but taken by and large the Court did not feel that the financial implications of the appointment of an assistant minister could be met before March, 1962. It was interesting that the organ problem should be brought into this discussion. A recommendation was made that the existing instrument should be replaced with an organ to cost between £1,500 and £2,000 and investigations were authorised. The interest mentioned concerning the appointment of an assistant minister would assist, it was suggested, in financing the new organ. The interest in indoor bowls had apparently revived with considerable enthusiasm and the Deacons' Court was asked for the use of the Sunday School Hall on two nights a week and for a grant to cover two sets of bowls and mats. Only four years previously the indoor bowls mats had been sold for £25. The Deacons' Court acceded to the requests and gave assistance in nail- punching and sanding the floor. A most important matter of general church administration seems to have cropped up and to have been discussed by both the Session and the Deacons' Court separately and together. The genesis of the problem arose as deacons were continually being ordained and inducted as elders and thus became members of the Session and the actual number of deacons was thus being continually reduced. As all elders were members of the lower Court there appears to have developed an overlapping in the functioning of the two bodies. The Session made a suggestion that the two Courts should be combined, all deacons to become elders, and the various aspects of church work to then be divided into subcommittee responsibilities. This suggestion was rejected as being too cumbersome a body for efficient discharge of the duties involved. It would seem that a Court consisting of forty eight elders and twenty two from the Deacons' Court, some seventy in all, would almost qualify as a congregational meeting, so the rejection of the suggestion appears to have been reasonable. Then, too, the Deacons' Court worked under a three year term of office, whereas the Session had no such limit although quite a lot of thought had been given to a term of office for elders without any final decision being reached. The Deacons' Court was finally left

63 with a membership fixed at twenty four members. Amongst the miscellaneous items of passing interest were the offer by an anonymous donor to provide robes for the junior choir; the decision to purchase a new pulpit Bible; a meeting with the representative of an Auckland firm and the placing of a tentative order, to be confirmed later, for a new pipe organ. This year, 1961, also saw an important move forward in the election of women to the church Courts, Mrs. C.W. Francis to the Session and Mrs. W.S. Campbell and Miss H. Clark to the Deacons’ Court. The new Bible was duly obtained and put into use, but the colour of the edges of the pages as seen from the congregation was commented on and steps were taken to see if it could be altered; it seemed impracticable to have the colour of the page edges of this particular volume changed, and a replacement with a more acceptable appearance would have been twice as expensive with the present book difficult to dispose of, so matters were allowed to rest. During 1961 some unusual, if not abnormal, person appears to have been collecting organ pipes at the expense of various churches throughout the country. North Church was one of the churches visited. It was about a year before the missing pipes were replaced, but the matter of replacement was thus brought to the fore and a Deacons' Court resolution concerned the purchase of a new pipe organ at a cost of £3,500 to be raised by the end of 1963, subject, of course, to the confirmation of the tentative order and for delivery by the end of 1963. By far the most important business taken in hand during 1961 was the matter of assistance for the minister. As mentioned previously the Deacons' Court felt the finance could not be coped with before early in 1962. However, the Session decided that the matter was urgent and therefore started preliminary investigations. It felt, too, that the idea of a Parish School was essential and, to be successful, this would really need the services of another full-time worker. The hour of meeting for the Sunday School was set at 10.00 a.m. as a step towards the inauguration of the Parish School idea. The Session's investigations included enquiries locally in New Zealand and overseas„ One prospect was a man at the time in India. Then an approach was made to a visiting American professor regarding the availability of someone from the United States. The Session gave the matter a great deal of thought and the ultimate decision, after discussion again with Rev. A.D. Horwell, Director of Home Ministry Committee, and two other ministers, members of the Christian Education Committee, and with Presbytery 64 approval, was to form a team ministry. Congregational approval was obtained and about mid 1962 Rev. A.J. Huston was approached and at the end of the year his name was inserted in a formal call. An interesting first took place early in 1962 when representatives from four North Invercargill Churches, Anglican, Baptist, Methodist and Presbyterian, met for round table discussions. No actual decisions were sought or taken but the participants felt that the meeting had considerable value, so much so that similar meetings should be held in the future. A memorable occasion for many North Church people was the mission conducted in mid 1962 by Rev. G.D. Falloon M.C.,B.A., of Timaru. Outstanding services for a period of a little more than a week were attended by a total of almost 2,500 and were of great inspiration and benefit to many. The Indoor Bowls Club was flourishing and going from strength to strength but the Deacons' Court was unable to accede to a request that they should level the Sunday School Hall floor for the club. Later, however, the club was given permission to proceed with the levelling themselves the Deacons' Court returning to them £50, half their donation to the Court. The Courts were somewhat exercised about finance and held a combined meeting at the end of 1962 to consider the whole position which included the inauguration and maintaining of the team ministry and, as well, the purchase of a new organ, to say nothing of the normal outgoings as shown in the 1959 "budget". By early 1963, however, matters were satisfactorily organised, and the Deacons' Court set about obtaining a second manse. As a result the property at 43 Catherine Street was purchased from the estate of the late J.T. Rubber for £5,000, and the Court placed on record its appreciation of the assistance from the trustees which resulted in the church getting such a suitable manse so ideally situated. To those who observe the little things about the church and I its services a comparatively unimportant custom was introduced about the middle of 1962, when at a morning service, Rev. Anderson drew the congregation's attention to the coloured bands or book-marks in the pulpit Bible. He mentioned that these would be of different colours at different seasons of the church year, purple being used during Advent and Epiphany, white for Christmas, Easter, Pentecost and Whitsunday, and green for Lent and Trinity Sundays. In Anglican churches black bands are also used for Holy Week - the week before Easter, Saturday to Saturday, at which time there are no flowers in the church. perhaps this custom, together with several other

65 similarly inconspicuous matters, is by way of some small movement towards the day when church union becomes a reality, a day when Presbyterians will probably have to give and take in the matter the form of their service of worship. Many Presbyterians can remember when the only active physical part they took in church worship was in the singing of the hymns and in placing their offering in the plate. Rev. A.J. Huston, B.A., was inducted on 31st January, 1963. Mr. Huston was in the teaching profession for nineteen years before taking up the ministry. For part of this time he was on the staff of the Normal School, Christchurch, and Associate Director, under Dr. T. Vernon Griffiths, of Christchurch Training College Music Classes; he was also interested in the affairs of the New Zealand Educational Institute, being a branch chairman on two occasions. He attended both Canterbury and Auckland Universities and graduated B.A. He took his divinity training at the Theological Hall, Knox College, Dunedin and was ordained into the ministry at Auckland in 1945, being on the staff of the Assembly's Youth and Christian Education Departments from 1940-1949 and again from 1958-1963. He was inducted to Otahuhu, Auckland, in 1949 and remained there until 1958. Since the beginning of 1963, Mr. Huston has shared the burden of work which had threatened to overwhelm Mr. Anderson. Mr. Huston has capitalised on his experience in Youth and Christian Education Departments and has done much to bring into operation the parish school with its Sunday morning meetings of adults in private homes and in the church buildings. He has also done a great deal of work with the youth of the church. Mr. Anderson and Mr. Huston have definite parish districts but both are always readily available to any who wish to consult them. They share in all the official duties of their office and, on occasion, are able to be of considerable assistance in other parishes and in numerous other directions when such assistance is desired. Very different physically, and in many other ways, the two ministers are using their often complementary talents in a manner to make the "Team Ministry" work very well indeed as far as North Church is concerned. The expansion of district, however, still persists and it is a matter of no little moment for just how long North Church and its two ministers will be able to serve the continually developing area with its ever-rising population. It may well be that the team ministry has but postponed church extension in a north or north-easterly direction. Two points, mentioned previously, may be called to mind; the first, the Rev. Horwell's opinion "that church

66 effectiveness in a built up area was about half a mile in diameter"; and second, the decision of the North Church Courts that a suitable Rosedale site, suitable for church extension, should be acquired, if possible. Everything points to increasing development and population in Invercargill North. North Church, perhaps with assistance from Waverley, will, sooner or later, have to face up to a further essay in the field of church extension. To keep up with modern trends a new still projector was bought for £130, a projection box erected at a cost of £30 and an amplifier purchased for £60, just a few of those "recurring, non-recurring expenses" not very great in themselves but when .superimposed on all the other miscellaneous expenses involved In the church finance caused some financial concern again. As a result, in mid 1963, the Deacons' Court decided to make a Debt Reduction Appeal with a target of £10,000 by the end of 1964. Some insurance figures give evidence of the magnitude of church business the Court was administering: George Street Manse and contents, £7,925; Catherine Street Manse and contents, £7,300; contents of Church, including office equipment, £4,170. Further insurance figures have been referred to previously. The decision to hold this appeal was further influenced by a falling off of income, particularly from envelopes. This whole matter concerned the Courts greatly and was the subject of comprehensive reports and a great deal of preliminary discussion. Mid 1963 saw the setting up of a Jubilee Committee to consider the holding of suitable celebrations in 1965. By mid 1964 this committee had arrangements in hand for holding the functions in March, 1965. The suggestions were for a Young People's Evening, a Garden Party, a Dinner, Special Services, both morning and evening, on the Sunday, with an Informal Gathering at the Church on the Sunday afternoon. In addition an historical booklet was to be prepared. On 3rd June, 1964, the whole congregation was shocked and saddened to learn of the passing of Mrs. Anderson, the "Lady of the George Street Manse". The unexpectedness of Mrs. Andersen's death only served to emphasise the sense of loss felt by everyone and the heart-felt sympathy extended to Mr. Anderson and his family. The kindness and graciousness of Mrs. Anderson will always be a fragrant memory. Her support of Mr. Anderson in all the aspects of church work, particularly in the Women's Group, in choir, and with young people generally has left a lasting impression. The whole congregation was deeply moved and greatly strengthened by the manner in which Mr. Anderson and his family bore

67 themselves at this trying time. The Outlook of September, 1964 mentions. "It is interesting that North Invercargill found the use of conveners for departments such an effective means of organization, which has proved itself over the past six years; and we are grateful for their willingness to share their experience with those who are seeking to establish the Association of Presbyterian Women in other parishes". It is necessary to go back some eight years in order to appreciate the full meaning of the above quotation. Following the 1956 Stewardship Campaign and the Courts' decision that finance raising was the concern of the whole congregation - that a worthy offering be given regularly each Sunday - the women's organizations, always, as mentioned from time to time, well to the fore in raising money, had more time for other aspects of church work such as mission work at home and abroad, parish evangelism, social service in the church district and further afield; in other words a "sharing and caring" mission wherever there was need. To accomplish this, to obviate overlapping and to bring in many who were not actively engaged it was decided to combine the various groups, which, at times, had involved as many as eleven women's meetings in one month. So, in 1957, the women's group, known as North Presbyterian Women, came into being. At first there were doubts as to the wisdom of the move, but it has been found that unity is strength and many women have found real satisfaction in the generally broader outlook. There are conveners for the various departments of church work, viz., Missions, Social Service, Sewing, Visitation and Prayer and Study. It is interesting that over a year ago the General Assembly gave as a directive that the merging of women's organizations should take place and "The Association of Presbyterian Women" was constituted with five departments under separate conveners. Mrs. Huston, the first "Lady of the Catherine Street Manse", has shown a keen interest in the work, of the parish, the community in general, and also further afield. She has brought deserved distinction to herself and honour to her church by being the first president of the newly constituted "Southland Presbyterial", the Presbytery component of the "Association of Presbyterian Women". For most of its fifty years existence North Church has advertised its Sunday Services in the daily press, but for quite a few years, any special events were advertised on notice boards of various types in the grounds and

68 the condition of these pieces of equipment and their replacement from time to time almost developed into one of the hardy perennials of Deacons' Court agenda. The latest development is a very attractive notice-board and does nothing to detract from its surroundings, in fact, rather the reverse. The robes for the Junior Choir, after consultation with an American firm of suppliers and after a conference between the donor and the Session Clerk regarding colour, were dedicated at the early service on 26th April, 1964. The donor subsequently offered to present an additional six gowns and caps, making twenty six in all. These gowns are stored in a special cupboard costing £27. There can be only favourable comment on the appearance of the Junior Choir at the 9-00 a.m. services, where their singing, under the direction of Mrs. Scott, adds materially to the worshipful atmosphere. The Junior Choir is also a potential recruiting ground for the Senior Choir which, after quite a number of years of varying fortunes, appears to be coming back slowly to a place in the church services. Under the energetic leadership of Mr, E.M. Russell as convener, the Debt Reduction Appeal which was mounted in 1964 had received £8,553.7.8. by the end of the year and there appeared still to be moneys to come in. As a result the indebtedness was reduced to £2,020.0.7. 1965, the Jubilee year! It was some fifty years since North Invercargill had become a fully sanctioned charge and sixty years since the Presbyterians of North Invercargill first worshipped in their own building, the first wooden church at the corner of Antrim and King Streets. The Jubilee Celebrations took place as had been arranged from the evening of Friday, 12th March, until the evening of Sunday, 14th March. The first function, the Youth Dance, was held in the Sunday School Hall. There was a fine spirit in evidence and with music and supper both of a high order, it was felt that this type of function could profitably be held more often. At the Garden Party and Picnic, held amidst the pleasant surroundings of Anderson Park, all the ingredients for an excellent function were present. The weather was kind, a fine, sunny day, lovely locale and entertainment, including items by Boys' Brigade, Girl Guides and Scottish Country Dance Groups, all conspired with the willingness of all present to renew old friendships and to make new ones, to make the day a happy one and one to be remembered. To round off quite a full day, the Jubilee Dinner, held in the Southland Boys' High School Assembly Hall, provided a fitting climax. The School Hall

69 with its lofty ceiling, the old school atmosphere about it, was a fitting setting for a very good meal and the speeches that followed. Mr. A.M. Weir, an office-bearer of North Church since 1940, was in the chair and performed the duties of toast-master. After the Chairman's welcome, the toast to North Church was proposed by Rev. John Greer, Vicar of Holy Trinity Church and His Worship the Mayor of Invercargill, Mr. N.L. Watson. Rev. R.S. Anderson replied and in doing so gave some interesting facts of the church's history. The toast to the Presbyterian Church of New Zealand was proposed by the Very Rev. S.C. Francis, President of the Southland Branch of the National Council of Churches, and replied to by the Moderator of the Southland Presbytery, Rev. S.W. Campbell, of First Church, Mr. C.W. Francis, Session Clerk of North Church from 1932-1961, had the honour of proposing the toast to St. Paul's and Kindred Churches. The replies to this toast were in the hands of Messrs. A.D. Grant, Session Clerk of St. Paul's; H.V. Norris, Holy Trinity Anglican Church; J.R. Wesney, North Methodist; D.A. McCalman, North Baptist, who caused some smiles when he referred to the fiery times both North Presbyterian and North Baptist Churches experienced some fifty years ago, the Baptist Church fire following the second at North Presbyterian some time after the Baptists had made their building available to the Presbyterians; and last, but not least, N.M.K. Speirs, Waverley Presbyterian, Mr. Speirs being an office-bearer at North before Waverley was established. The final toast was that to the Ministers and Office-Bearers of North Church, both past and present. Mrs. George Osborne, the only lady speaker of the evening, gave a somewhat detailed speech in proposing the toast, referring to the various ministers and their office-bearers throughout the years, with particular reference to the Clerks of the Courts and the Church Treasurers. She made particular reference to the work of Sister Helen Dewar who was actually present at the functions. The replies to this toast were given by Rev. A.J. Huston and Mr. G. Skipworth, an office-bearer of North Church since 1927 with one or two breaks. A pleasant evening was brought to a close with the singing of Auld Lang Syne. Various musical items were very well received but one of the minor highlights of the occasion was undoubtedly the combined Menu and Toast List. Presented to each diner on arrival, this attractively produced programme was embellished with a multitude of quotations from the whole field of English literature, obviously the work of someone quite widely readin that field. It was the source of much interest in the intervals of such an occasion and formed a souvenir just so much different.

70 The Sunday celebration commenced with a well-attended Communion service in the Church at, 8.OO a.m. followed by a Family Service again in the impressive surroundings of the Boys' High School Assembly Hall. In the afternoon there was an informal get-together. Photos of interest showing congregational life and activities through the years were on display. There was much conversation, and quite a few people, now away from Invercargill, were present and were doing their best to catch up on developments of all sorts. They were ably assisted by present North Church people. The evening service was mainly choral, the choir providing several items. Later in the Sunday School Hall, where a light supper was provided, Miss C. Garmson and Mrs. Eadie (nee Fraser) spoke of their memories of the early days of the parish. Miss Garmson also made a presentation of a photo of the first choir of which she was the organist. This photo is now hanging in the John Collie Hall as a memento of the occasion. Incidentally visitors were interested in the naming of the other halls after the ministers who had followed Rev. Collie. It was only about a year previously that the Session had decided so to perpetuate the names of Revs. Tanner, Graham and Robertson In passing, it is interesting to speculate on the possible future implementation of this policy. North Presbyterian Church embarks upon its second fifty years. The church Courts are not resting on their oars. That hardy perennial, the organ, is well to the fore. The replacement of the present instrument with a pipe organ has been estimated to cost about £3,500; not unnaturally the Courts have been investigating in other directions and a Baldwin 46C Electronic organ has been considered. Even this instrument may cost up to £1,300, but it is said to have the complete range of capabilities required of a church organ. The matter is still not decided. A piano for the church is also under consideration. In keeping with modern trends and to be independent, the Deacons' Court decided to purchase an Eiki 16 millimetre sound film projector at a cost of £315. This is used quite often at; the evening services when some very well produced films of great informative and thought-provoking nature have been screened. It is a far cry from the days of the old precentor with his tuning fork. Then, too, it does not seem so long ago when films were regarded as a close relative of the theatre, and the theatre had close relations with the devil. The church in general appeared to resist changes for many, many years, but, of recent times, there have been many changes and innovations In order to 71 keep step with modern developments and progress. North Church has not been slow to realise the value of many of these changes and is now quite well equipped to use various modern methods of presenting the Gospel story. Finance has always been a prominent feature of any church's life. Today, perhaps even more than ever before, finance is necessary for the efficient working of any church. Again the church Courts are making an endeavour to keep the income from all sources up to the many and often increasing calls made upon it. There is little doubt that the position will be coped with successfully as it has been so often in the past. It may be relevant to remember the text from which Rev. J.C. Jamieson preached, at the opening of the first church building, on 4h June, 1905, "Where there is no vision the people perish." North Church, and the ministers, office-bearers and people connected with it throughout the years, has had that vision and with God's help have come through to the position the Church now occupies in the district. To conclude this survey of the life and development of North Invercargill Presbyterian Church it is interesting to remember the motto, "Nec Tamen Consumebatur", particularly with reference to the church’s early years. And, looking back, and remembering the introductory quotation , it is quite obvious that North Church has travelled through the years with its hand in the hand God. May we all be thankful and may our knowledge of God's past goodness give us hope and courage for the future.

72 Deacons and Elders who have served on the North Invercargill Church Courts with the dates of their ordination and/or induction, but commencing with the Committee of the North Invercargill district as part of St. Paul's Parish. ORIGINAL NORTH INVERCARGILL COMMITTEE 21st February, 1905 Rev, Geo. Lindsay, J.S. Baxter, Fraser, J. McCurdy, A Gresham 7th July, 1905 Carswell 3rd April, 19O6 A. Inglis, W. Fraser, L. Fraser 31st October, 1906 A.J. Garmson 6th November, 1907 A. Murphy 5th October, 1911 Rev. H.W. Burridge 20th August, 1912 A. Bain, J. Hall, A.W. Anderson, J. Lindsay, T. Haining, A.J. Garmson, W. Fraser, J. Docherty, G. Buchanan, H.W. McDonald, A. Inglis, J. Baxter 30th August 1912 A. Officer, W. Blue 13th September, 1912 M. Fraser 4th October, 1912 T. Haining 16th June, 1913 Kelburn DEACONS - * 1965 Deacons' Court 2nd May, 1915 A.W. Anderson,.E. Eadie, W. Blue,J.M. Docherty, A.J. Garmson, R. McNarey, W.A. Sproat 9th July, 1916 D. Fraser, W. Foote, A.J. Kerr, A. Milne- 7th September, 1919 A.P. Calder, A. Shaw 22nd August, 1920 A. Fletcher, D.A. Clark, T. McFadzien, J. Sadlier, W.P. Smith 21st August, 1921 A. Roy, J.B. Mawson 19th August, 1923 A. Brash, J.R. Eadie. D. Officer 17th August, 1924 J.A. Fraser, W. Mackie, A.H. Whyte 22nd March, 1925 A. Henderson, T. Pert 9th September, 1926 J. Holland, .J. Furrie 28th August, 1927 D. Brash, H. Ferguson, C.W. Francis, G. Georgeson, Jackson, J. Pullar, G. Skipworth, J. Whitton, Wyllie 1st June, 1930 W. James, R. Martin, M. Macintosh, II. Me I nl.yrn, R. Mitchell, A.M. Sparks 73 11th October 1931 A.A. Craig, A.D, Paterson, R. Paterson, A.R. Officer, T. Wilson 10th October, 1933 G. Scandrett, V. Harris, H.J. Dunne, J. McAlister 29th November 1936 J.D. Bayne, J.H. Read 28th November, 1937 J. Botting, A, Campbell, E. Foster 10th November, 1940 L. Adamson, A.M. Weir, G. Osborne, D. McEwan, J.M. McKay, H. Mitchell, C. Meikiejohn, A.G. Harrington 14th April, 1943 J. Greer, I.H, Mathieson, G. Matthews, E. Dawson, A. Alien 17th December, 1944 *R.F. Blackmore, W. Campbell, A. Donald, H. Denton, S.D. Moore, K.E. McKinnon, G. Hucheson, E.M. McNaughtor, W.Tinnock, G.H. McLean 24th November, 1946 T.O. Manson, J.P. Milne, G. Herbiso9n, R.R. Tyrie, *F.T. Rumler, W. Nevis, H.R. Wood 4th April, 1948 L.R. Christie, N. Speirs, C.J. Blomfield, J.Kerr, I. Sim, *T.R. Stroud, H.S, Young 16th July, 1950 J.M. Ayers, T. Duerdon, J.S. Grieve, C.R. Imbs, J.F. Moore, *J.E. McClean, R.T. Maconie, E.M. Russell, J.R. Gilmour 28th March, 1951 J. Blampied, C.M. Broad, J. French, G.H. Drees, A.A. Lind, E. Mathieson, *W.J. Murray, J.S. Walker, D. Wilson 23rd March, 1952 I. Capitaneas 5th June, 1955 I. Gilchrist, R. Matheson, G.A. Robertson 5th July, 1955 W.J. Burgess, M. Smith 17 August, 1958 B.A. Chisholm, *A. Fraser, R.A. Fredric, B.W. Hayes, L.W. Hinkley, *D.M. Leckie 24 th August, 1958 *C. Mathieson, *G.E. Ramage 16th October, 1960 *L.E. Chapman, *R.M. Milley, * J. Pay, R.W. Pollock, E.G. Thomas, R.M. Weston 26th August, 1961 *J.H. Wright, R.E. Boyd, *Mrs. W.S. Campbell, *Miss H. Clark, *R.D. Allan, A.T.W. Parry, *C.V. Shirley 74 28th August, 1962 *Mrs. J.B. Cutt August, 1963 *D.J. Stewart 14th July, 1964 *I. Scott 26th August, 1964 *M. Gilmour, *R. Grieve, *C. Tapper 3rd July, 1965 *T. Adams, *B. Greaney, *N. Scheele ELDERS - * 1965 Session ** On Leave or Retired 26th July, 1914 A. Inglis, T. Haining, A. Officer 7th September, 1919 P. Shaw, W.A. Sproat , 72nd August, 1920 A. Calder, J. Officer 19th August, 1923 **A. Roy 17th August, 1924 J.M. Docherty, J.R. Eadie 9th September, 1926 H. Murray, A. Fenton 28th August, 1927 *J.A. Fraser, E. Eadie, T. Pert, A.H. Whyte 11th October, 1931 **J. Holland, *J. McN. Pullar, **H. Ferguson, J.C. Bates, *C.V. Francis 4th November, 1934 A.A. Craig, M. Mclntosh 28th November, 1937 J. Rollinson 10th November, 1940 C. Brownridge, J.A. Stirling, J.W. Fenton 14th April, 1943 **T. Wilson, *H. Mitchell, W.D. Mitchell, A. Anderson, *A.D. Paterson, *A.M. Weir 6th September, 1944 *F.A.C. Hughes 24th November, 1946 M. Leadbetter, J. Hall, W. Donald 4th April, 1948 *I.P. Milne, *J.G. MacDonald, *A.S. Thomson, E. McNaughton 16th July, 1950 R. Sim, *C.J. Blomfield, W.S. Campbell *J.B Cutt, *J.A. Cushen, J. Kerr, S.I. Roxburgh, J. Thomson 28th November, 1951 *F.H. Johnson, L.R. Christie D. McMillan, *G. Osborne, W Tinnock 5th June, 1955 D.C. Boyd, M. Gray, *E. Russell, S.T. Hunter 17th February, 1957 **J. Berragan, P. Beadle, W. Tinnock, *C.R. Imbs, J. Miles, J.A. McIntosh, *G.E. Mortimer, G.E. Whittaker 23rd January, 1958 C.M. Broad, W. Billinghurst, G.A. Robertson, **J.E. Young 75 13th June, 1960 *J.H. Beck, *H.T. Brown, *B.A. Chisholm, *R.A. Greenfield, *J.K. Herbison, *Rev. T.M. McDonald 13th August, 1961 *Mrs. A. Francis, *W.A. Dickie, *R.A. Fredric, *R.M. Weston, *J.W. McMechan, *S. Jones, *R.J. Mackie, J. Sutherland, I.R. Thomson 25th March, 1964 *A.A. Lind, *A.H. Printz, *L. Walker, *J.J. Wallace 21st February, 1965 *K.R. Balch, *R.E. Boyd CLERKS OF SESSION 1914 - 1927 A. Inglis 1927 - 1928 J.R. Eadie 1928 - 1931 H.E. Murray 1932 - 1961 C.W. Francis 1961 - 1963 C.M. Broad 1963 - J.B. Cutt

Rev. A. J. Huston 1963 Rev. R. S. Anderson B.A. 1959

76 CLERKS OF DEACONS' COURT Before 1915 A.J. Garmson 1915 1923 W.A. Sproat 1923- 1926 J. Officer 1926 1927 H.E.Murray 1928 1933 T.V. Wyllie 1933 1946 T. Wilson 1946 1954 E. McNaughton 1954 1962 G. Skipworth 1962 1965 C.V. Shirley 1965 R.D Allan TREASURERS 1915-1916 R. McNarey 1917-1922 J.M.Docherty 1923 J.M.Docherty J.B. Mawson 1924-1925 J.M. Docherty 1926 J.M. Dochorty D.W. Officer 1927-1928 J.W. Furrie J.M. Docherty 1929-1934 J. McN. Pullar J.M. Docherty 1929-1934 J. McN. Puilar 1934-1941 J. McN. Puilar (acting) 1942-1955 G. Osborne 1955 J.E. McLean CHOIRMASTERS 1914 A.E. Featherstone 1917 J.R. Eadie 1926 W.D. Burns 1930 R.S. Brown 1931 P. Tail 1935 J. Gray 1936 J.W. McKay 1938 L.S. Adam 1947 A.H. Partridge 1952 F.H. Johnson 77 1955 G.H. Drees 1957 Pywell 1957 G.H. Drees 1962 Mrs. D. Scott Mrs. Buxton, Asst. JUNIOR CHOIR 1961 Miss R. Manson 1962 R. O'Brien 1963 Mrs. Pay ORGANISTS 1906 Miss C. Garmson 1909 Miss Brown 1915 Miss Garmson 1916 Miss Garrard 1922 W. Ballantyne 1924 Miss Pert 1928 W. Ballantyne 1929 F.R. Tucker 1930 W. Ballllantyne Miss A. Waddell 1941 Miss D. McDougall 1956 Mrs. Berragan 1959 Miss J. Gilmour Mrs. Myron 1960 Mrs. J.W. McMechan Miss L. Stirling SUNDAY SCHOOL SUPERINTENDENTS Up to 1914 G. Hardie A. Inglis J.S. Baxter 1914 W.A. Sproat 1923 A. Calder 1923 A. Inglis 1925 J.R. Eadie 1934 A.H. Whyte 1942-1961 A.D. Paterson 1961 B.J. Wilson (Temp.)

78 Since this time the Sunday School has been administered by the Christian Education. Committee of the Session with the Heads of the various departments, but acting through the Secretary, Mrs. W.J. Murray . PRESIDENTS OF THE WOMEN'S GROUPS 1957 - 1958 Mrs. A.D. Robertson 1959 - 1961 Mrs. A.D. Paterson 1961 Mrs. S.I. Roxburgh 1964 - 1965 Mrs. G. Osborne 1965 - Mrs. A.K. Wilson

79 SOME INTERESTING STATISTICS

(From the General Assembly's Blue Books)

Roll Roll

Public Public

Elders

Roll of Roll of

Worship Deacons

Class Bible

Membership

Pastoral Care Pastoral

Attendance at Attendance Sunday School School Sunday Persons Under Under Persons 1915 - 200 85 - - 3 - 1916 350 180 97 - - 3 - 1917 350 200 104 - - 3 10 1918 350 180 115 - - 3 9 1919 400 260 115 - - 3 7 1920 400 200 131 - 4 8 1921 450 200 147 6 9 1922 400 220 175 6 9 1923 400 200 184 6 9 1924 450 200 199 5 9 1925 450 210 199 7 9 1926 500 350 208 7 9 1927 500 350 220 8 7 1928 500 350 245 - - 11 13 1929 500 350 244 - - 10 11 1930 1931 500 350 260 - - 10 14 1932 500 350 280 - - 14 12 1933 500 350 286 - - 13 11 1934 500 350 238 - - 10 11 1935 500 350 229 - - 12 8 1936 500 350 230 - - 11 8 1937 500 350 212 - - 11 8 1938 500 350 237 - 12 9 1939 500 350 237 - - 12 9 1940 800 600 318 - - 12 9 1941 900 650 379 - - 13 14 1942 900 500 409 - - 12 12 1943 1000 450 416 - - 20 11 1944 1000 450 447 - - 18 9 1945 1100 500 480 - - 18 15 1946 1100 500 440 84 239 18 14 80

Roll

Elders Roll of Roll of

Deacons

Membership

Pastoral Care Pastoral

Attendance at Attendance

Sunday School Sunday

Persons Under Under Persons Bible Class Roll Class Bible Worship Public 1947 1100 500 407 85 275 19 18 1948 1250 500 449 111 211 22 20 1949 2000 570 475 129 232 22 20 1950 2000 570 486 129 223 19 17 1951 2000 580 509 131 212 25 19 1952 2000 600 576 129 259 31 20 1953 2000 640 587 127 273 28 18 1954 2000 670 613 154 350 28 18 1955 2000 700 532 147 238 34 19 1956 2000 700 535 122 230 32 23 1957 2160 900 593 170 250 30 16 1958 2175 900 571 138 241 35 5 1959 2175 900 571 140 259 34 12 1960 2500 850 585 144 295 31 16 1961 2730 740 603 171 340 34 22 1962 2730 740 603 171 340 34 22 1963 2775 567 626 162 279 40 24 1965 Note : * 1965 was not yet available.

81 FURTHER INTERESTING STATISTICS - COLLECTIONS From North Church Annual Statements of Receipts and Expenditure. Loose Cash Envelopes Sustentation Totals £ s. d. £ s. d. £ s. d. £ s. d. 1915 156.12. 3. 121.13. 0, 278. 5. 3. 1916 147. 7. 5. - 121. 4. 6. 268.11.11. 1917 136. 0. 7½. - 117.16. 0. 253.16. 7½. 1918 155. 3. 6. - 116. 9. 0. 271.12. 6. 1919 156. 2. 2. - 164.10. 1. 320.12. 3. 1920 197.15. 6. - 150.14. 0. 348. 9. 6. 1921 152.12. 6. 60. 9.10. 174. 2. 6. 387. 4.10. 1922 180.18. 2½. 58.19. 9½. 178.19.0. 418.17. 0. 1923 178.15. 9. 66.10. 3. 173. 9. 0. 418.15. 0. 1924 182. 5. 5. 70. 8. 9. 169. 4. 3. 421.18. 5. 1925 177. 4. 9. 66. 3. 2. 171. 3. 6. 414.11. 5. 1926 216.10.5. 61.10.11. 176.17. 0. 455.18. 4. 1927 280.12. 8. 48. 4. 3. 168. 6. 9. 497. 3. 8. 1928 303. 7. 5. 61.10. 9. 152.10. 6. 517. 8. 8. 1929 245. 7. 7. 158.19.8. 147.13. 6. 552. 0. 9. 1930 231. 3. 5. 136.12.9. 198.17.6. 566.13. 8. 1931 226.13.8. 128. 4. 3. 184.17.6. 539.15. 5. 1932 211. 5. 1. 126. 0. 4. 184.13. 1. 521.18. 6. 1933 191.18.0. 123.17.7. 148. 1. 6. 463.17. 1. 1934 Missing 1935 180.17.10. 120.16. 1. 122.12. 6. 424. 6. 5. 1936 209. 4.10. 118.14. 7. 129. 3. 0. 457. 2. 5. 1937 207. 3.11. 114. 0. 2. 132. 8. 0. 453.12. 1. 1938 221.18. 6. 140.10. 1. 127.10. 0. 489.18. 7. 1939 268.14. 0. 130.19. 0. 126. 2. 2. 525.15. 2. 1940 375-15. 9. 136.10. 3. 137. 9. 5 648.15. 5. 1941 439.13. 4. 132. 8. 1. 148. 5. 2. 720. 6. 7. 1942 374.13. 9. 287.19. 0. 141. 3. 0. 803.16. 3. 1943 350.18.10. 284.17. 4. 164.19. 0. 800.15. 2. 1944 385.13.11. 319.16. 3. 133.14. 7. 839. 4. 9. 1945 399. 15. 3. 394. 0. 4. 121. 1. 4. 914.16. 7. 1946 Missing 1947 376.19. 6. 387.10. 9. 127. 1. 0. 891.11. 3 1948 471. 5. 5. 584.14. 4. 135.14. 6 1191.14. 3. 1949 627.11.10. 609. 5. 2. 115. 5. 0. 1352. 2. 0. 82

Loose Cash Envelopes Sustentation Totals £ s. d. £ s. d. £ s. d. £ s. d. 1950 638.17. 6. 798.11. 4. 194. 4. 0. 1631.12.10 1951 634.12. 6 942.18. 5 260. 3. 0. 1837.13.11. 1952 695. 7.11. 983. 1. 1 269.16. 6. 1948. 5. 6. 1953 759. 4. 7 1019.16. 7. 182. 7. 0. 1961. 8. 2. 1954 765. 0. 0. 1050. 0. 0. 193. 0. 0. 2008. 0. 0. 1955 964. 0. 0. 1064. 0. 0. 131. 0.0. 2159. 0. 0. 1956 926.19.11. 1101.17. 2. 130.19. 0 2159.16. 1. 1957 1083. 3. 5. 5864. 3. 7. - 6947. 7. 0. 1958 722.19. 5. 6577.13. 8. 25. 1.0. 7325.14. 1. 1959 619. 0.1. 6123. 0. 0. - 6742. 0. 0. 1960 810. 0. 0. 6121. 0. 0. - 6931. 0. 0. 1961 874.15.11. 7249.16. 9. - 8124.12. 8. 1962 858. 2.10. 7508.14. 2. - 8366.17. 0. 1963 1001.16. 3. 7308.16. 5. - 8310.12. 8. 1964 1150.15. 5. 7547.16.10. - 8698.12. 3. Totals £21122.18. 8. £66190.19. 8½. £6270. 1. 6. £93583.19.10½. There have always been donations to Church Funds throughout the years but, whether it is coincidence or not is not clear, since sustentation as such ceased to be collected, donations have been far from inconsiderable. 1959 - £391. 0. O., I960 - £152. 0. 0., 1961 - £179.18.11., 1962 - £218. 5. 6., 1963 - £318.15. 6., 1964 - £403. 6. 9. The above figures do not include the £8553.7.8. response to the 1963-1964 Debt Reduction Appeal, with some moneys still to come In.

83 IMPORTANT DATES IN THE HISTORY OF NORTH INVERCARGILL PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH 16th June, 1902 Deputation from St. Paul's Session to the Deacons' Court to urge the desirability of doing something for North Invercargill in the way of getting a place for meeting. 4th June, 1905 Opening of first Presbyterian Church building in North Invercargill, at corner of King and Antrim Streets. Rev. J.C. Jamieson conducted the opening services. 9th August 1910 Dublin Street Mission Hall destroyed by fire. It had been used for services before the church was opened. 15th August, 1911 First North Invercargill Church Building destroyed by fire. 21st December, 1913 Opening of second North Invercargill Church building in Windsor Street. Rev. H.W. Burridge of St. Paul's presided, and preached. 17th July, 1914 Induction of Rev. John Collie, M.A. to North, a church extension charge. 11th February,1917 North becomes a fully sanctioned, self-sustaining charge. 21st May, 1926 Induction of Rev. W. Tanner. 7th December,1927 Laying of Foundation Stone of present church by Mr. A. Inglis. 18th April, 1928 Opening of present church by Mr. A. Officer. 28th March, 1939 Induction of Rev. H. Graham. 22nd May, 1947 Induction of Rev A.D. Robertsonf B.A. October, 1948 Ordination and Induction of Sister Helen Dewar, Deaconess 1950 Waverley extension commenced. 15th July, 1954 Opening of Waverley Church Hall.

84 July,  1954 North Church enlarged to provide additional August  seating accommodation. 2nd February,1955 Induction of Rev. Robert Wilson, M.A. ,B.D. to Waverley. October, 1955 Inauguration of additional morning service at North Church. June, 1956 First Stewardship Campaign. March  1957 Additions to North Church Sunday School October  5th October, 1957 Opening of John Collie Hall. 1957 Inauguration of Women’s Group 30th July, 1959 Induction of Rev. R.S. Anderson, B.A. 1962 Decision to form Team Ministry 31st January, 1963 Induction of Rev. A.J. Huston B.A. 12th March, 1965 Golden Jubilee Celebrations, 14th 

ADDENDUM to Page 43 It will be remembered that Mr, Inglis laid the foundation stone of the present church with a silver trowel presented to him by the architect, Mr. Lightbody. Mr. Inglis surprised those present with some historical details of the Church in North Invercargill. Perhaps this prompted the Session, late in 1929, to ask Mr. Inglis, then resident in Timaru, to compile a history of the North Invercargill Church. Some three months later the correspondence received included a reply from Mr. Inglis agreeing to the Session's request. Unfortunately many of the people intimately concerned have passed on, but exhaustive enquiries have failed to discover any trace of such a history.

85 The George Street Manse

The Catherine Street Manse

86 THE MINISTERS OF NORTH INVERCARGILL PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH

Rev. John Collie, M.A. 1914 - 1925 Rev. William Tanner 1926 - 1938 Rev. Hugh Graham 1939 - 1946 Rev. A.D. Robertson, B.A. 1947 - 1958 Sister Helen Dewar 1948 - 1954 Rev. R.S. Anderson, B.A. 1959 - Rev. A.J. Huston, B.A. 1963 -

This document was been scanned from “GOLDEN JUBILEE SURVEY - 1965” booklet by A.H.H. Webster which was produced for the Golden Jubilee Celebrations held at North Invercargill Church on the 12-14th March, 1965 This electronic copy has been produced using OCR software and the original font has been changed to a more modern one for easier reading on computers. This process repaginated the document so the Contents page numbering has been updated and the chapters hyperlinked. The opportunity was taken to reposition some of the photographs. The layout of the tables at the end of the booklet has been altered to make them easier to follow. Ian Joll (November 2014)

87