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The New Zealand Evangelist

Auckland

Auckland.

The Rev. George Panton, Presbyterian Minister, arrived in Auckland by the Duke of Portland. We rejoice in the increase of Evangelical Ministers in these Islands. We are most happy to congratulate the Presbyterians in Auckland, on the cheering prospects that have opened upon them, and pray that their minister's labours may be abundantly blessed among them. We copy the following gratifying intelligence from the New Zealander:—

“On Sabbath morning, the Reverend G. Panton, the pastor so long and anxiously desired of the Presbyterians of Auckland delivered his introductory sermon, at the Court House, which was completely filled upon the sacred and interesting occasion.

“The Rev. gentleman selected for his text, the supplication of St. Paul to the Thessalonians—“Brethren pray for us.” From this slender theme, he pronounced a discourse of much and fervent practical piety, such as could not, we imagine, fail to convince his hearers that their Minister is not only a disciple fully versed in all the solemn obligations that pertain to a faithful servant of the Lord, but one, likely from the earnest anxiety of his manner, zealously to fulfil the high and holy duties upon which he has so satisfactorily entered.

“Most cordially do we congratulate our Presbyterian fellow citizens upon this auspicious accomplishment of their ecclesiastical desires; for, if Mr. Panton prove only as faithful (which we question not he will) in the performance of his duties, as he is clear and explicit in their exposition, they will have acquired a teacher of much price, and religion an interpreter worthy of being honoured.

“Evening service was resumed at 5 o'clock, when another crowded attendance ensued, Mr. Panton preaching from the text, “Blessed are the poor in spirit, &cc.' The collections of the morning and evening amounted, we are told, to nearly fifty pounds.

page 215

A meeting of the congregation and friends of the Scotch Church will be held this evening in the Mechanics’ Institute, to consider matters connected with the erection of their place of worship.