CATHOLIC MISSIONS

New Zealand Herald, Volume LXXI, Issue 21859, 23 July 1934, Page 11

CATHOLIC MISSIONS

SOLOMON ISLANDS WORK A short outline of the history of the lonian Catholic missionary movement in the Solomon Islands and a comprehensive survey of the movement to-day ■ftas given by Father J. McHardv in an illustrated lecture following last night's service at St. Patrick's Cathedral. Dealing with the history of the missions, Father McHardv said the SoloWon Islands were discovered by a Spanish expedition from Peru in 1567, there being four priests with the company of adventurers, which was commanded bv I)e Mendana. However, little progress was made in active missionary work, although four natives returned' with the expedition to become Christians. In 1816 Bishop Kpalle visited the islands, accompanied by seven priests and six lay brothers, and four more priests arrived later. Ihe activities now being carried on by the Roman Catholic Church in the islands began in 1898, and the missionary field ""'as divided into two territories, north and south. Au endeavour was always made by the missionary workers to gain the goodwill and friendship of the chieffe, said Father McHardv, referring to the Work of the movement to-day. Intelligent young' natives were trained as catechists and were sent to carry on the work in various districts. They Were sincere and earnest workers and Supplied reports every month. They built their own chapels.