THE GUILD 9

by Miss Jessie Fullerton

It must be assumed that sometime previous to the records which we have been able to locate, the Ladies' Guild was in existence. This assumption arises from the fact that the Annual Report of the Church for 1903 states the Guild was re-organized in 1902.

The work of this society embraced almost every activity of endeavour amongst women and children. At all times its members were available. When a request came from the frustee Board, for example, they could be depended upon to respond with all possible speed.

This particular group seemed to thrive on service. Included in its membership could be found capable and willing leaders for all group functions within the church. In addition, many of its members were prominent in all worthwhile community activities. It is not unusual to read that members of the Guild took a keen interest in educational matters and in students' interests. They sponsored numerous lectures by well—known speakers and specialists. Some of the lectures were illustrated by slides, which never failed to attract a large audience.

It would be well nigh impossible to enumerate all the happy events sponsored by the Guild. One humorous report seems worthy of mention. "On one occasion, after the Hallowe'en Tea, a candy pull was held for those who assisted and their friends."

War Effort

The 191h918 war effort of the Guild was most significant. Members of the Kirk whovere in the services were constantly in the thoughts of these women. All sorts of comforts were supplied as the need arose. One Christmas, sixty boxes containing necessities, sweets, and smokes were sent to our lads in France. One former Kirk Sunday School pupil, a prisoner of war, was supported by the Guild on one occasion. Before a contingent of men left for overseas, this organization entertained them at the Armories.

In 1917 an S.O.S. call came from the Red Cross for socks to be sent overseas. The Guild provided 180 pairs in record time.

Looking back over the history of this organization, it wouldzppear that the members went about seeking ways in which to furnish necessities of the Sanctuary. In 191A, they refurnished the Minister's vestry and presented the minister with a new gown and .pulpit Bible. They undertook the responsi- bility of having flowers placed in the church weekly. They placed the Honour Rolls on the walls, and they assumed the cost of radio broadcasting for some years. This was the group that, during the Christmas season, undertook the making of wreaths and garlands of spruce with which to decorate the church.

In 1931, in order to provide a generous donation of money to help the Trustees finance the extensive alterations of the church, i.e., the rearrangement of the seating and the relocating of the organ and the pulpit, the Guild held several moneyhmaking events, and as a result contributed $300.