232 HISTORICAL SKETCH 0F PRINCE EDWARD ISLAND

the pews, and when the clock struck twelve, every seat in the vast structure was occupied. Pontificial High Mass was commenced immediately after twelve by His Lordship Bishop McDonald, assisted by Rev. Peter Curran: as High Priest; Rev. Dr. Monaghan, as Deacon of Honor; Rev. J. F. Johnson, as Sub-deacon of Honor; Rev. Dr. Curran, as Deacon of Office; Rev. P. C. Gauthier, as Sub-deacon of Honor; and Ignatius McDonald as Master of Ceremonies. The large sanctuary was brilliantly illuminated by myriads of tapers and electric lights, and when the officiating clergymen and altar boys took their respective places the scene was most impressive. After the first Gospel, the Rev. J. C. McMillan, of Cardigan Bridge, ascended the pulpit and delivered an eloquent sermon, taking for his text, ‘ And God so loved man that He gave His only Son.’ His discourse was listened to with profound attention and made a deep impression upon the large congre- gation present.”

“The following day being Christmas, the services in the Churches of Charlottetown,” said the Examiner of December 27th, “were of an especially bright and pleasing character, and were edifying to the large congregations assembled. The decorations were in keeping with the joyous season, and the sermons dealt with the important epoch in the world's history that was being celebrated."

ST. PETER’S.

“The Christmas decorations. this year, are tasteful and beautiful, though not so elaborate as in some former years. Holy Communion was celebrated on Christmas morning at 7.15, 8, and u o’clock. The music at the latter service was beautiful, reflecting credit upon the organist and choir, and the sermon by the Rev. James Simpson, M. A., was appro- priate to the season.”

FIRST METHODIST CHURCH.

“ The Christmas services in the First Methodist Church this year were of a high order of excellence. At the Saturday morning service the pastor, Rev. G. M. Campbell, delivered an able and eloquent discourse, befitting the occasion, and the choir rendered a choice programme in a splendid manner. The service on Sunday morning was taken by Rev. R. Opie, of