Page:History of Knox Church Dunedin.djvu/157

Rh Christ. When service was begun among the tents in Stafford street, on ground given by Mr Henry Cooke—a sturdy Wesleyan—I was often accompanied by Major Richardson (Superintendent of the Province) and Mr T. B. Gillies as my helpers. And most willing helpers they were. One would read the lessons and the other would lead in praise or prayer, as directed. Hard things are sometimes said of these times, but I can say that the people were open-hearted and openhanded; neighbours helped neighbours, and were pleased to do so. When we asked the aid of our townspeople in connection with the building of New Knox Church the old liberality was again displayed, and as large a percentage of the people brought their stone to that noble cairn as assisted in building the first Knox Church. I for one can say I have found the people of mine own romantic city ever helpful and generous. The generation which I joined in 1860 is passing over the river, but, blessed be the Lord of all, their sons and daughters follow closely in the footsteps of their liberality and consecration. We are mortal, but Christ brings to His service a succession of servants who know that His church in her comeliness is the peer of all, in her charity the friend of all—too kind to be the enemy, and too affluent in spirit and resources to be the poor relation of any.'—(Applause.)

"The anthem 'Lift up your heads' was then sung by the united choirs of Knox and First Churches.

"Mr Colin K. Gordon read the following, address of welcome to Mr Davidson:—'We, the office-bearers of Knox Church, in our own names, and we believe as representing the feeling of the entire congregation, embrace the present opportunity for assuring you that we welcome you as our junior pastor with unreserved cordiality. You have shown a generous confidence in us in leaving your old home and an attached congregation, that in response to our call you might minister to us in sacred things, and by so doing you have laid us under obligation to receive you with loving trustfulness. We assure you that you will have our sincere sympathy and active support in the arduous and manifold duties which devolve on you as one of our pastors. We are specially anxious that the very beginning of your ministry among us should be brightened by the feeling that we regard you with enthusiastic friendliness. It greatly delights us to tell you that you have no hostility of any kind to overcome before you can win your way to our affections. You begin your ministry among us supported by the hearty