BAY OF PLENTY.

Waiapu Church Gazette, Volume I, Issue 1, 1 July 1910, Page 13

BAY OF PLENTY.

The great event m these parts m Church circles has been the coming of the new Bishop of the Diocese. Fortnnateiy it was fairly good weather, though late m the season for traveling, so he was able to fulfil all his engagements. On Tuesday, April 19th, he presided at the annual meeting of the Archdiaconai Maori Board of Tauranga, held at Te Pahou, Whakatane. After celebration of Holy Communion, m which about thirty partook, the Board met. There was a fair attendance. Many interesting matters were discussed. A motion of sympathy was passed to the widow and family of the late Rev. George Maunsell, CM. B., who laboured m these parts for many years. It was rather interesting and amusing to hear the members plying the Bishop with some old-time questions, with a view to a more favourable answer than had hitherto been given. It goes without saying that the new Bishop was quite equal to the occasion. We trust some useful work was done. On the following day (Wednesday) the episcopal party went to Euatoki, The native chiefs invited the Bishop to the large Pa Tauarau to receive their welcome, which was given m the usual hearty Maori style. In the evening a goodly number of Maoris, mostly young people, attended aervice, which was held m the school. The native rendering of the hymns was

good. Holy Communion was celebrated early next morning for the workers. As a direct result of the Bishop's visit, two young and promising natives were sent to the Gisborne Native College with, a view to preparation for ordination. On the return of the Bishop from the Coast, he visited Matata, where an English service was held, which the Maoris also attended. Te Puke was the next place visited, arriving there on Ascension Day. Divine service was held m the evening, and three were confirmed. On Friday evening a welcome was tendered to His Lordship by Europeans and Maoris, when speeches were made by all and sundi'y, including three Maoris. On Saturday, May 7th, Tauranga was reached. The visit here was greatly interfered with by the news of King Edward's death. Memorial services were held on Saturday evening and on Sunday, with large attendances. The Archdeacon preached to the Maoris at Maungatapu, the Bishop preaching also at 3 p.m. In conclusion, great interest is evinced m His Lordship's visit m November next.