[14] HOME MISSION.

Birmingham Gardens

OPENING OF CHURCH HALL.

On Saturday, 28th February, the week following the opening of the School Hall at Canowindra, . the Assistant Superintendent, Rev. H. J. Hillman, was associated with the Presbytery of the Hunter, in the opening and dedication of a re-erected Army hut as a Church Hall at Birmingham Gardens, in the Newcastle district.

The Presbytery was represented by Rev. W. Young, Interim-Moderator, Rev. J. Goudie, Clerk of Presbytery, and Mr. W. Henderson, Elder and member of the Presbytery's Building Committee. About 50 people were present when the Assistant Superintendent, on the invitation of the Rev. W. Young, who presided, opened the door of the Hall and invited the congregation to enter for worship. During the service which followed, the building was dedicated by Mr. Hillman, who also delivered a brief address. Mr. R. A. MacArthur, student in charge, and Mr. R. A. Caldwell read the lessons. The offering amounted to £8.

At the conclusion of the service the local ladies provided afternoon tea for all present.

The Hall, which has an overall measurement of approximately 60 feet by 28 feet, including vestry and platform, has yet to be completely lined and ceiled. The congregation, though a small one at present, is enthusiastic and progress is anticipated as there is considerable building activity in the vicinity.