NEW MAORI CHURCH

Dominion, Volume 6, Issue 1721, 11 April 1913, Page 3

NEW MAORI CHURCH

„ OPENED BY BISHOP AVERILL. To Awaliou, across the lako from Rotorua, was the scene of great activity on Sunday (writes the Rotorua correspondent of tho Auckland "Herald"), when the now Maori church was opened by the Bishop of Waiapu. The congragation was far too largo to be accommodated in the building, and it was therefore arranged that most of the service should be conducted in the open air. The Bishop was assisted by six of the Maori clergy, and about ten of tho licensed Maori layreaders from the Bay of Plenty and Rotorua districts. After tho morning service outside, tho Bishop conducted a confirmation service, when seven candidates were presented. A Native chief named Emtra Karaka was formally inducted as a licensed lay-reader. A sumptuous dinner was provided by llio Natives. Tho first relay was provided for the pakchu visitors, of whom about SO or 90 .sat in tho special dining apartment provided, and enjoyed the rich things provided by the hospitable Natives. After dinner tho formal presentation of Native offerings was begun. A representative of a tribe came forward and presented tribal offerings, which had been raised in each settlement, the total amount being .£l2O. Tho Bishop expressed his gratitudo at seeing many' indications of a revival of spiritual life amongst tlio Native congregation throughout the Bay of Flinty and Rotorua districts. To open four churches, and confirm such large numbers in one tour, was a matter of thankfulness to all who took an interest in tho spiritual welfare of tho Native people.