An important function in these celebrations, however, was the jubilee banquet on Saturday, June 4, at which 350 present and past members sat down to a sumptuous meal, presided over by the minister, Rev. D. C. Rogers.

Present at the banquet, and responsible for representative speeches of congratulation were the Mayor of Hastings, Mr. Ron Giorgi; chairman of the National Council of Churches at Hastings, Captain Cross; representing Napier Baptist Church, Rev. Rex. Goldsmith; previous ministers of the church, Rev. H. B. Hughes, of Mangere (the first minister); Rev. Hayes Lloyd, of Hamilton; and Mrs. N. R. Wood, representing her husband Rev. N. R. Wood, Puriri Street, Lower Hutt.

Numerous telegrams and messages of congratulations were received from past ministers and members of the church, who were unable to attend.

Mrs. Nicholls, wife of the late Rev. E. H. Nicholls, a past minister of the church, cut the golden jubilee cake, which was a highlight of the occasion.

Immediately following the banquet a pageant was staged, portraying the inauguration of the Hastings Church in 1909, and its progress and development over the past 50 years.

A very enjoyable and interesting evening was brought to a close by those present singing the doxology, and the pronouncement of the benediction by Mr. Rogers. Next morning, Sunday, June 5, the original minister of the church, Mr. Hughes, spoke to a full congregation bringing to remembrance past events. In the evening, to an equally full church Mr. Lloyd delivered a challenging jubilee address and evangelical message.

After the evening service a social hour was held, when an opportunity was given for present and past ministers and members to meet and renew acquaintanceships.

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