The Henson Journals

[201]

Sunday after Ascension Day, Thursday, May 17th, 1931.

A grey morning, and very warm, with doubtful promise for the day.

I celebrated the Holy Communion in the Chapel at 8 a.m. We numbered 9 commts, including our two American guests.

I wrote to William, and to Frank Pember, consenting, though with reluctance, to preach in All Souls on All Souls Day.

The Americans & Ella went with me to Hartlepool, where I dedicated the restored Galilee, & preached a sermon. Car&oumle;e was there, & expressed great approval of my speech, but, as it included a compliment to himself, I cannot attach much importance to his opinion. However, I think the congregation, (which was mostly composed of the Freemasons who had defrayed the cost of the restoration of the Galilee) was interested, & possibly also edified. I took occasion to emphasise the difference between the Freemasonry of England, & that of the Continent. Also, I explained the probable meaning of the name ‘Galilee' as applied to a church porch. After the service we all returned to Auckland, bringing Car&oumle;e with us. The weather was sunless, but fine & warm. The Church now seen in its full proportions looks magnificent.

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