MARSDEN CENTENARY

Greymouth Evening Star, 9 August 1938, Page 5

MARSDEN CENTENARY

MAOR I PA RTICI PAT lON

[PEE PBESB ASSOCIATION.]

AUCKLAND, August S’

A visit to the historic church of St. John, at Parramatta recently by a party of 36 Maoris, headed by Bishop Bennett, in honour of the Rev. Samuel Marsden, pioneer of the ('Jiiirch in New Zealand, was described by the Rev. AV. Panapa, who returned from Sydney by the Niagara to-day. It was the centenary of Marsden's death and a piece of greenstone taken from New Zealand was unveiled by Bishop Bennett.

As a further link between the Maori race and Marsden, Mr. Panapa. who assisted Bishop Bonnell in the memorial service, said the Maoris also visited numerous places possessing Marsden associations. The Parramatta Church was built by Marsden, Next Thursday a Maori confirmation service would bo held in that church before Bishop fJennett and the Maori party returned to Now Zealand. ‘'The people of Sydney gave us a wonderful reception and showed groat interest in the eoniemiry celebrations," said Mr. Panapa. "The Bydtioy Town Itall was crowded throughout the wook and the New Zealand court, which was in the most prominent position, attracted a groat deal of attention, Concerts wore given by Hie Maoris ami on each occasion the ball was packed,"