Induction of The New Vicar Of Conisboro’ By The Archbishop Of York.

A service at which the Archbishop of York and the Rev. W. A. Strawbridge, M.A., attended, was held in the Parish Church, Conisborough, on Wednesday afternoon, for the purpose of admitting the new incumbent into his new office. A large number of clergymen in the district were present. There was a large congregation, many people coming from Masbro’ which living the Rev. W. A. Strawbridge has just vacated.

The hymn, “Ye servants of the Lord,” was sung as the processional hymn. The oaths and declarations were taken and signed by the new incumbent, and His Grace the Archbishop of York, in delivering a charge to the new incumbent and said he came amongst them as the chief minister in the diocese. Their newly appointed vicar came not of his own seeking, and they must regard him as a minister of Jesus Christ. He goes about in the name of Christ, and carries on the work of Christ. He hoped they would receive him kindly. St. Paul considered himself very weak, but the people received him kindly. He hoped that was the way they would receive their vicar, as a messenger from God. St. Paul said they received him as Christ Jesus, so they must receive their vicar; just as if Jesus came himself. It was his work ministers were appointed to carry on.

It was God’s great goodness that he allowed them to take part in his work. They must remember that their vicar was there, not for himself but for the Master, and they must be careful not to judge him hastily. It was a terrible thing for the Lord Jesus Christ when people spoke lightly of the ministers he has chosen to take part in the ministry of his truth. On the other hand, the people weren’t to worship ministers and set them up as idols. A safeguard against that was to remember their vicar was the master’s servant. He came on the Master’s business, and they had to receive what he gave for the sake of him that sent him.

In conclusion be earnestly solicited the prayers of the congregation for the new vicar.

A collection was taken in aid of the York Theological. Students’ Fund, for the purpose of assisting candidates in their preparations for holy orders, or other diocesan objects.