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THE REV. C. VOLKNER'S MARTYRDOM. GISBORNE, March 9. The restoration of "Volkner's Church," at Opotiki, promises to be a work of national interest, owing to the old building's exceptional historical associations. Built in 1862, by the Rev. C. S. Volkner, it was afterwards the scene of tragical and stirring scenes. Mr Volkner was powerless to stem the tide of rebellion in the district, and was seized, and by Kereopa's orders put to death. The details of his martyrdom caused a thrill of horror through the country. After hanging Mr Volkner on a tree, his body was taken by the fanatical rabble to the church, where it was horribly mutilated. The blood was drunk from the Communion chalice, the eyes were gouged out by Kereopa, and the severed head placed on the pulpit and treated with derision. The bloodstains are still plainly visible after fifty years. Subsequently the fragments of the body were secured . by friendly natives, and were buried in the churchyard at the east end of the building. On the arrival of the expedition under the command of Major Brassey, sent by the Government to avenge the murder of Mr Volkner, the clyirch was taken and garrisoned. A redoubt was built, and the church was loopholed for guns. During Te Kooti's raids it was a haven of refuge for the isolated families throughout the district. When peace was again established, and as the country became more populated, the Government handed over the church to the settlers for Divine worship. It was then consecrated by Bishop W. Williams, first Bishop of Waiapu. and called the Church of St. Stephen the Martyr. The building has now fallen into a condition of disrepair, but it has been decided to add a chancel to the memory of the Rev. C. Volkner, missionary and martyr. This chancel will enclose the grave, the position of which will then be immediately before the altar, and a memorial tablet will be inserted over the spot where the martyr' 6 remains lie buried,
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https://paperspast.natlib.govt.nz/newspapers/MS19100314.2.56
Bibliographic details
Manawatu Standard, Volume 9165, Issue 9164, 14 March 1910, Page 6
Word Count
340A LINK WITH THE PAST. Manawatu Standard, Volume 9165, Issue 9164, 14 March 1910, Page 6
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