Maori Memorial Unveiled

Chronicle (Levin), 12 April 1949, Page 3

Maori Memorial Unveiled

At a simple but impressive ceremony at Poutu Maori Pah yesterday the Rev. Paora Temuera, of Otaki, conducted the unveiling service of a memorial headstone on the graves of the late Mr. Mark Downes, who passed away on June 26, 1942, and his wife,- the late Mrs. Pareaururan^i Downes, who died on May 16, 1946L % The eeremony was opened with hymn, "Jesu, Lover of My Soul," after which Mr. Temuera spoke ofi the excellent work done ,by Mri Mark Downes and his wife during their lifetimes. Although he had lived as a pakeha, he had never forgotten the Maori people, and his work for the Ngati Whakatere tribe would always be remembered. Mr. Temuera went on to say that the headstone had been erected in the memory of two beloved people, but this meant nothing, as their true memorial was the memory of the great work which they had done. Mr. Temuera then appealed to the gath&rihg to continue the .work sfearted by: .and Mrs. Dovmes, statini;;h|hat| those |>r^ent though%p;thehi'as they didsdii the day of ' jpie deremony, they- would carry on their work and make their dream come true. This would then be a more fitting memorial. Mr. Temuera then called upon Mrs. TeTomo, Senr., to unveil the memorial, after which the headstone was blessed. The singing of the hymn, "Peace With God," hrought the service to a close. Incorporated in the memorial is the name of Strauss Keriona, son of Mr. -Jafiies Keriona, and his late wife. Following the service a ceremonial hangi was held at the pah. Relatives of Mr. and Mrs. Downes were among the visitors.