The Henson Journals

[1]

Easter Day, April 1st, 1923.

But Easter Day breaks! But

Christ rises! Mercy every way

Is infinite, – and who can say?

Is this 'the victory that hath overcome the world, even our faith'? Is anything more possible now?

A dull rainy morning, very depressing to heart and mind.

I celebrated the Holy Communion in the Chapel at 8 a.m. There were 12 communicants, including William & John. Ashton, the Park–keeper, with his wife and daughter came also.

I motored to S. Helen's, Auckland, where I preached & celebrated the Holy Communion at 10.30 a.m. There were 152 communicants, almost all very young men & women. In administering the Elements, after using the full formula at the start, we merely said the opening words:– 'The Body of our Lord Jesus Christ which was given for thee.' This arrangement was expeditious, and appeared to work without irreverence.

We all motored to Durham for Evensong in the Cathedral. I sate in the Throne, & pronounced the Benediction. Immediately after the service we motored to Kirk Merrington, where we had tea in the Vicarage before going to church for Evensong. I read the lessons and preached. The church was filled with a congregation remarkable for the large proportion of young men which it included: & they were all very attentive. We returned to Auckland after the service.

---