The Rev. C. J. Keeler, of Rushden, who has just returned from seven months’ work amongst the troops in France, recommenced his ministry at the Independent Wesleyan Church, Rushden, on Sunday last when large congregations assembled at both services, the church being especially crowded in the evening, some being unable to obtain admission.
 In the morning the rev. gentleman gave an interesting talk to young people on the methods employed in caring for the sick and wounded men who have been incapacitated in the fighting on the Western front. He described the transport of the wounded from the firing line to the base hospitals, making special mention of the wonderful system of hospital trains.
Mr. Keeler also paid the highest possible tribute to the noble and self-sacrificing work of the sisters and medical staff.
At the evening service Mr. Keeler spoke on “The influence of home on the boys in France,” and related many interesting and touching incidents that he had personally witnessed during the past seven months, all showing the wonderful influence of mother, friends, and early associations in keeping the boys straight and true under trying conditions. The choir, under the conductorship of Mr. A. H. Lawson, rendered the anthem “How lovely are the messengers” (St. Paul), Mr. W. T. L. Flood presiding at the organ. The hymns were specially chosen as favourites amongst the soldiers in France, and included “Jesu, Lover of my soul,” “Sun of my soul,” “The Church’s One Foundation” and “When I survey the wondrous Cross.”
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