Opening of a Maori Catholic Church.

Feilding Star, Volume XVII, Issue 99, 23 October 1895, Page 2

Opening of a Maori Catholic Church.

(Contributed from Native translation.) The opening of the Maori Catholic Church at Kai iwi (Feildmg) took place last Sunday. This church is really a credit to the tribe. It was built by Raiki, eon of the much esteemed chief Kereaina Paoe. It has a large vestry and graceful little spire. The painting inside and decorations of flags, bannerettes, and pictures make the church look charming. Beautiful Maori mats, made by Mereaina Kereama cover the sanctuary. The Station of the Cross has been given by Mrs C. Pascal. The Maori wahines gave this generous lady a hearty welcome, and Teara Takana, the well-known chiefteiness, presented her with huia feathers and a precious mat. The opening was to hnve taken place a week earlier, and the Maoris have been during that time diminishing their great store of food, but ample remained. His Grace the Archbishop was greeted by lusty wel comes and " Haere raai mnnuhiri, Ka ora, Ka ora." — " Come and bless us." His Grace the Archbisfcop and the Kev. Fathers Melu 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. The Holy Sacrament was administered to fifteen natives. The building was far too small for the numerous visitors, who were regally entertained by these open-handed people. The natives will gladly -show visitors over the church. Rai iwi is about three rniles from Feilding.