The Dunedin City Council's new pavilion at St Clair,
officially opened by the Mayor, Mr J. Wilson, on November
23. - Otago Witness, 4.12.1912.
The matter of the use of Sunday for military purposes was
again before the Dunedin Presbytery yesterday morning, when it
was decided, after discussion, to appoint a deputation to place
the Presbytery's views before the Minister of Defence as soon
as possible.
The Rev R. R. M. Sutherland introduced the subject in
connection with the report of the Sabbath Observance
Committee. He had been out of town the previous Sunday, he
said, but he had been told that a number of Senior Cadets had
been drilling on the High School ground during service hours
last Sabbath morning.
He did not think that was a thing that should be encouraged
or allowed if the Presbytery could do anything to put a stop
to it. He had six boys of his own, and he would like everyone
of them to be thoroughly drilled and trained in the use of
arms, so that if the need should arise they might play their
part in the defence of the country. But, if this kind of
thing was to be allowed it would mean very serious trouble
for the whole military movement. He thought the wisest thing
would be for the Sabbath Observance Committee first of all to
find out who was responsible, and whether it was done with
the knowledge and authority of the officer in command of the
district; or if it was simply the military ardour of some
young lieutenant or officer who had more military ardour than
good sense and Christian principle.
The Rev J. Kilpatrick said the Presbytery had discussed this
matter very often, but so far it had failed to do almost
anything. He moved that a deputation be appointed to wait on
the officer commanding the district, and if he happened to be
on the deputation he would say what he had to say to him with
the greatest freedom. The Rev A. W. Kinmont seconded the
motion. Mr P. G. Pryde suggested the deputation, instead of
interviewing the officer in command of the district, should
interview the Minister of Defence. Mr Kilpatrick agreed to
alter his motion in accordance with Mr Pryde's suggestion.
The Rev A. Gray said he wished to enter a word of caution.
This matter had been brought up almost ever since he came to
the Presbytery. He knew it was against the regulations to do
any drill on Sundays. The authorities were thoroughly with
them in trying to raise the moral tone of the cadets, and he
did not think they would be helping the authorities or their
own influence by making too much of some sergeant or other
officer, perhaps, going out with no authority at all.
The Rev R. E. Davies said there was no doubt about the facts.
He had evidence himself which was sufficiently strong to
warrant their moving. The motion was carried, one dissentient
voice being heard. - ODT, 4.12.1912
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