drew from us those of their own communion wlio formerly worshipped with us, yet we are glad to be able to report that their places have been so filled up by others that at present there are only three unlet sittings in the church, while several families want seats which we are unable to provide. Notwithstanding the many additional Sabbath Schools opened in the city by our co-operating Christian brethren, in the success of which we do rejoice, we are glad to be able to say that the number attending the various schools under the care of this church has not diminished. At Wakari, North-East Valley, Pelichet Bay, and this church are congregated an aggregate number of scholars averaging about 300."
It having again been resolved to employ the services of a congregational missionary, the Rev. Peter Anderson was engaged in April 1865, He laboured with much acceptability and success till his last illness. He died in January 1868. The following is the minute of the Session in reference to Mr Anderson's decease:—"The Session record with deep regret the death of the Rev. Peter Anderson, who has. been employed by this congregation as missionary since April 1865, and who departed this life on the 5th inst., deeply regretted by all who knew him. His calm resting in the simplicity of faith on the finished work of Christ was refreshing to those who had the pleasure of listening to him. His last articulated words were those which had been frequently on his lips, 'Blessed Lamb of God!' He was twenty years a missionary in Jamaica. After his health had compelled him to leave that field, he acted as missionary to the cabmen of Glasgow till he left for Otago, where he arrived in September 1864. In connection with this congregation Mr Anderson preached alternately at North-East Valley and Wakari on Sabbaths, besides officiating weekly at prayer meetings, and visiting from house to house, especially in North-East Valley, Pine Hill, and the northern part of the city. His labours were highly appreciated."
In July 1865 the Deacons' Court appointed Messrs W. T. Glasgow, R. Chisholm, and R. Gillies a committee to take the preliminary steps for the formation of a Young Men's Christian Association in connection with the church and congregation. A month afterwards it was reported to the Court that an Association had been organised with every reasonable prospect of success. This Association, which is now
