OPENING OF A MAORI CATHOLIC CHURCH.

New Zealand Tablet, Volume XXIII, Issue 29, 15 November 1895, Page 11

OPENING OF A MAORI CATHOLIC CHURCH.

(Translated from the Maori.)

The opening of tbe Maori Catholic Church at Kai iwi (Feilding) took place last Sunday. This church is really a credit to the tribe. It was built by Raika, son of the much eiteemed chief Kereama Paoe. It has a large ves'ry and graceful little spire. The painting inside and decorations of flags, bannerettes, and pictures make the church look charmimg. Beautiful Maori mats, made by Mereaina Kereama coverthesanctuary. The Stations of tbe Cross have been given by Mrs C. Pascal. The Maori wahine9 gave this generous lady a hearty welcome, and Teara Takana, the well-known chief taineßS, presented her with huia feathers and a precious mat, The opening was to have taken place a week earlier, and the Maoris have been during that time diminishing their great store of food, bnt ample remained- His Grace the Archbishop was greeted by lusty welcomes and " Haere maite manuhiri Ka ora Ka ora." — "Come and bless us." His Grace the Archbishop, accompanied by the Rev Fathers Meln and Patterson blessed the building, and congratulated the natives upon showing their faith by building this altar to God. It was then dedicated to St Peter and St Paul. Ine holy Sacrament of Confirmation was administered to fifteen natives. The building was far too small for the numerous visitors, who were regally entertained by these oppn-handed peop'e. The natives will gladly show visitors over the church. Kai iwi is about three miles from Awahuri.

The Archbishop's arrival had been hailed by song of welcome (powhiri) of which the following is a translation.

Welcome, noble visitor coming from Heaven 1 it is our youngchild (the Church) who has fetched you from the other side of the land. Welcome ! welcome ! welcome ! welcome 1

Welcome, your Grace, the bright star sent by God I Come and bless the resting place of tbe sheep gathered into the flock by your priests. Welcome I etc. etc.