Another Step in the Wrong Direction.—Sheriff-Principal Mercer has confirmed the Glasgow Corporation’s by-law allowing the playing of golf on the Sabbath on Glasgow’s public golf courses and also on Linn Park and Deaconsbank which are under municipal control though outwith the City. The Sheriff recalls what he said last year when he pointed out that the ratepayers could make their will known in a constitutional way. “That opportunity, so far, has been disregarded by the objectors,” he adds, “but, if their averment that the amended by-law runs counter to the convictions of the vast majority of the citizens of Glasgow be well-founded, the by-law need not be long-lived.” Unfortunately those who would wish to see it otherwise are faced with the chilling indifference of the masses. Still it is to be hoped that the citizens of Glasgow will bestir themselves and make the new by-law short lived. At one time Glasgow looked in other directions than pleasure for prosperity when her noble motto was: “Let Glasgow flourish by the preaching of the Word.”
Another Blasphemer.—In this world of sin and rebellion God is too often openly defied to His face but at times that defiance reaches a height that is almost incredible. This was brought home to us in reading an account of the life of an American negro who daringly claimed to be God the Father. The poor blasphemer has a large following and his cult has got a footing even in England. He and his poor dupes were evidently given over to a strong delusion so that they might believe this lie.
The Australian Presbyterian Heresy Case.—The notorious Dr. Angus case is likely to be re-opened in the Presbyterian Church in New South Wales, Australia. Previously it had been before all the church courts without satisfaction. The matter has now been brought before the Sydney Presbytery in the form of a definite charge of heresy against Dr. Angus by the Rev. A. J. Carter. The Presbytery of Sydney must now squarely face the issues and we await the decision with interest though, if we are guided by what so often happens in such cases in these days, not without misgivings.
Is it actually so?—What is described as the Presbyterian Fellowship Party composed mainly of Scottish ministers paid a visit recently to Canada and the United States. In an interview given by the Rev. Alexander Spark, St. Matthew’s-Blythswood Church, Glasgow, to R. E. Knowles of The Toronto Star Weekly (11th July), the following is reported—”Has the Church of Scotland,” I renewed, “retained its old place, of separate distinction and pre-eminence, in the life of the people?” “Yes, I think so. But we are making a distinct effort to develop closer relations to the other churches.” “Like the Anglican Church?” I queried. “Yes. But more especially, with the Catholic church. Not with any ‘union’ designs at all—but to foster the fraternal relationship that ought to prevail. And, so far, we have been delightfully successful. The chief undertow, that holds us back, is the influence of the Irish element; there are tens of thousands of Irish in Glasgow.” How many, we wonder are making this “distinct effort” in the Church of Scotland to develop closer relations “more especially with the Catholic Church?” That there should be even one ordained minister making such an effort to develop closer relations with the Church of Rome at one time would be incredible.
A Strange Way of Raising Church Funds.—The following appeared recently in the press and as no contradiction has appeared, as far as our knowledge goes, we may take it for granted that it is correct: “A garden party in aid of the funds of Oban Free High Church was held last week by Miss MacDonald, Craig House. Rev. A. M. Ross presided, and the proceedings opened with the singing of the 100th Psalm by the assembled company, this being followed by prayer, offered by Rev. Joseph Whyte. After tea which was served at little tables on the lawn an interesting programme was rendered. The vocalists were Mrs. Loynd, Mrs. Morrison, Mr. MacNicol and Mr. Neil MacLeod; there were violin selections by Rev. John MacDonald, Baptist Church; piano selections were played by Miss Bayne, L.R.A.M., a niece of Miss MacDonald; and young pupils of Miss Margaret Mair, in fancy costumes, gave a number of picturesque dances. Miss Munn provided the accompaniments for the various performers. The function proved a great success and a sum of about £30 was realised.” In a subsequent issue of the paper from which the foregoing was taken the following advertisement appeared: “Kilmelford Parish Church. A Sale of Work, Cake, and Produce (in aid of the Fabric and Congregational Funds) will be held in the Kilmelford Hall. . . . Concert and Dance on Friday, 28th August, at 8 p.m., for the same object.”
Vimy Ridge Memorial.—The unveiling of the memorial to the Canadians who fell in the War was carried through by His Majesty the King on a recent Sabbath. It is but becoming that the King should pay this tribute to the noble sacrifice made by the Canadians but it is most regrettable that it should have taken place on a Sabbath. The amount of Sabbath breaking involved which even the most careless Anti-Sabbatarian could scarcely find an excuse for on the ground of necessity and mercy went beyond all bounds. This is the second public occasion on which our King has grieved many of his most loyal subjects by using the Sabbath in a way that neither the claims of mercy nor necessity demanded. It is as far as we know a break in the public conduct of British sovereigns of recent years in peace times at any rate.