The Pamphlet Collection of Sir Robert Stout: Volume 84
Mothers' Meetings
Mothers' Meetings.
There are now four of these meetings in connection with the Association.
The meeting at Newtown is conducted by Mrs. Boxall and Mrs. Mansfield, and, as the following report shows, has kept up its numbers during the year;—"There are twenty names on the book, with an average attendance of eleven. The mothers enjoy these meetings, and also value the second-hand clothes which from time to time they have opportunities of buying. During the year £3 16s. 6d. received for these has been expended in helping families in need of assistance. Twelve of the mothers pay into the Shoe Club, and are very thankful for this help, as it enables them to provide their children with comfortable boots. Most of these children attend Sunday-school. We feel conscious of many defects, but while the women evince such a deep interest in Bible and other readings, we are encouraged to continue the work, praying God to crown our feeble efforts with great success."
Herbert Street.—This is presided over by Mrs. and Miss Costall. There are eighteen members, but the average attendance is only six, as several mothers have young children, and consequently cannot attend regularly. There is a marked improvement in those attending. Clothing is made at the meetings, and sold at the cost of the material, which is a great boon. The interest taken in Bible and other reading is very encouraging; also, the Library is much valued, books being regularly taken out and read.
Webb Street.—This meeting is under the superintendence of Mrs. Wright, Mrs. Gill, and Mrs. Galway. It was commenced on the 13th October, 1885; it now numbers twenty-one members, with an average attendance of eleven. There have been twenty-one meetings held up to date.
Molesworth Street.—Mrs. Dumbell and Miss Bennett take charge of this meeting; there is an average attendance of from ten to twelve, many attending regularly, and seeming to value the meetings.
Tea Meeting.—A mothers' united tea meeting was held on the evening of the 2nd February, at the Girls' Club. This was quite a success; about eighty were present, and a very enjoyable evening was spent. These social gatherings tend to give a stimulus to the weekly meetings. Our thanks are due to the ladies who provided the tea on such a liberal scale that we were able to send a supply of the good things to the mothers who were not able to be present.