THE RE-OPENING OF KAIK CHURCH.

Otago Daily Times, Issue 4685, 22 February 1877, Page 3

THE RE-OPENING OF KAIK CHURCH.

In reply to an invitation from a deputation of Natives to be present at the opening services of the above church, the Rev. l>r Stuart forwarded the subjoined letter to Mr Lucas, the teacher at the Kaik, with the request that it might be read to the Natives. As there is no mention of its having been read Dr Stuart requests its publication: - Mr Lucas, Teacher, Kaik, Otago Heads, Dear Sir—Allow me to say, through you, though I cannot see my way to be present at the re-opening of the Maori Church, that I feel grateful to the Natives for the courtesy of asking iub by a deputation. My reason for decljning the invitation is my dissatisfaction with the manner in which the Presbyterian Church has been treated in the matter of the new minister. That Church has always taken a warm interest in the spiritual state of che Maoris, and was the first to welcome the excellent Reimenschneider, and the first to mourn his death. Having ascertained by direct communication with the Bremen Society, by which Reimenschneider was supported, and Mr Wohlers, of Ruapuke, that there was no intention of continuing the mission, on the ground that Otago was studded with Christian Churches, the Synod, on the suggestion of said society, and at the instance of the Presbytery of Dunedin, resolved tn obtain another missionary. In carrying out thig resolution large expenses were incurred. Mrs R. was com pensated for outlay on premises, the manse was put in thorough repair, Mr Blake was brought from Home and supported till the health of his family required a change. But with a view to the spiritual well being of the Maoris, one of the best arid ablest of the Natives was at once appointed Cateohist at a small salary, and Mr Blake was instructed to visit the-Kaik at stated seasons for superintendence and administration of ordinances. In these circumstances I am vi opinion that my zealous friend Bishop Nevill should have shown in connection with the introduction of a minister a grain or two of Christian courtesy to the Church which has for years done its best for the Natives of the Province. From my knowledge of che Presbytery of Dunedin and the Mission Committee of the Synod I am sure, had the Bishop intimated hij ability to make better provision for their religious instruction, that these bodies would have readily retired. It is in order to show my disapproval of such ways of doing good by a Church which I respect that I declined your invitation. But as one who has done his best during 17 years to provide religious ordinances for the Natives, do me the kindness to read this letter at the meeting on Tuesday.—l am, &c, D..M. Stuart.