Pre-Sessional Work.

The biennial conference of the New Zealand Christian Unions was held at Oamaru from January 21st to 28th, at which our union was represented. Though the number of delegates was below the average of previous conferences, nevertheless good work was accomplished. Papers bearing on the various phases of our work were read, and these were generally followed by useful discussions. Some well-known speakers also addressed us on subjects of general interest.

- - - -

The Universal Day of Prayer for students was observed on Sunday, 11th February. A meeting was held in St. John's class-room. W. Gillanders (ex-president) presided, and gave a short outline of the progress of the World's Student Federation during the past decade. Addresses were delivered by Bishop Wallis on the Missionary Movement, and by the Rev. Gibson Smith on Intercessory Prayer.

- - - -

The handbook was as usual issued by the union at. the opening of the session.

Sessional Work.

Bible study circles, live for women, and three for men, have been formed and meet weekly.

A Mission Study Class has also been formed, and has commenced the study of "Missions in China."

page 46

On Thursday, 5th April, a meeting was held to bid farewell to Miss A. W. Griffiths, who was leaving for India, having been appointed first New Zealand settler in connection with the Missionary Settlement for University Women. Miss Griffiths gave us a very interesting address, illustrated by magic lantern views, of Mission Work in India. We sincerely wish her success in her future sphere of labour.

Religious Meetings.

The first ordinary fortnightly meeting this term was held on 28th April. Professor Kirk gave an address, taking as his subject "Two Parables from Nature." He first showed that as chlorophyl is essential for the nourishment and life of plants, so faith is essential for the happiness and peace of the soul. As his second parable, the Professor took the example of fibro-vascular tissue, by means of which a plant expands and develops, and showed that every Christian has within himself a means whereby to develop, to expand, and to allow his religion to permeate his whole life.

- - - -

On the 12th May the Rev. T. H. Sprott, M.A., delivered an exceedingly able address on "The Atonement" to a large meeting. He pointed out that the theory of the Atonement is not final, but quite true so far as it goes. That the Atonement signifies salvation from evil, or that which tends to hinder fullness of being, self-realisation, and happiness.

- - - -

On 26th May, W. Gillanders read a paper on "Paul's Missionary Methods in relation to Modern Missions." He dealt chiefly with the fact that although Paul did not establish permanent missionaries, as is the method of to-day, he never left a place without being confident that he could keep his hold on it. An interesting discussion followed. Mr. D. A. Budge, of Montreal, who was present, gave an address on the Y.M.C.A. of that city.