We have had another mission, which has done much good, conducted by the Rev. C. Bodington, of Lichfield. He came with a colleague, at the invitation of the Bishop, for several months' work in the Diocese. We have had the benefit of two long visits from him, a man of real power, keenly in earnest. It is a great privilege, in these uttermost parts of the earth, to have visits from such men, not only for the people but the clergy, who can see little of each other, though in one respect we are better off than our brethren at home, as every parish can count on an annual visit from the Bishop. It will be long before Bodington is forgotten in Timaru.
Owing to the generosity of Mrs. Luxmoore, we have now a good site in the suburb of Sandytown, and a substantial wooden School Church, used for Services and Sunday School. We have also instituted Parish Festivals, as I had them in Hokitika, but on even a larger scale, as they are very popular. It means much work and organization, and is most effective in bringing people together.
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I have let some time elapse before continuing this letter, which I can now do with a light heart, for the "days of adversity" are ending, and those "of prosperity" are at hand again. In August last we were able to consecrate the completed nave of St. Mary's, with a temporary chancel, sanctuary and vestry. Before describing it, let me tell you how this came about. New Zealand, with its small population,
