IS MEMORY OF MARSDEN.

Marlborough Express, Volume XLI, Issue 61, 13 March 1907, Page 5

IS MEMORY OF MARSDEN.

CROSS ERECTED AT THE BAY OF ISLANDS.

UNVEILED BY THE GOVERNOR.

[PBESS ASSOCIATION.]

rru *x AUCKLAND, March 13. ._ ±ne Marsden Cross was unveiled at Kangihora, Bay of Islands, by the Governor, to-day, before a large attendance of Europeans and natives. . lhe monument is one of the most .interesting in the Colony. It is erected on the site of the first Christian service held, in New Zealand, and conducted by the Rev Samuel Marsden -nearly 100 years ago. The ceremony passed off with the success befitting an event of such national interest.

[• The Governor said that he felt it a j great privilege to be permitted to take Spart m honouring a New Zealand pioneer. It was often remarked nowadays that Christianity was not makangthe progress it should, but with the before them they would be ;:aMe to draw courage by remembering Marsden, and the difficulties and dangers which he surmounted The monument is in the form of a Celtic cross, 20ft. Bin in height It was constructed in Melbourne of bluestone, and bears the inscription- "On Christmas 1814, the first Christian service m-New Zealand was held on this spot% the Rev Samuel Marsden »