BISHOP OF AO-TEROA

Hokitika Guardian, 3 December 1928, Page 3

BISHOP OF AO-TE-ROA

REV. F. A. BENNETT ENDOWED. (By Telegraph—Press Association). NAPIER, December 2. The Rev. Frederick Augustus Bennett was endowed with the office of Bisnop of Aoteron, at .St. John’s Cathedral to-day, in the presence of a large assemblage of Maoris and Europeans. The consecration performance was by His Grace the Archbishop of the Province (Dr Averill), assisted by six Bishops of the Province. It was an edifying and affecting ceremony. Its tenderness perhaps was the most impressive feature. Tt was unique in Church of England history, in that both races joined to witness the consecration mf the first Maori Bishop. This feature was emphasised during the singing of the hymns, which were sung in both tongues at the same time, with perfect haTinonv. Grouped on one side of the church were Maoris, and on the other puke has, between which was a spectacular procession of choristers, clergy, and Bishops, who proceeded to places allotted.

The Archbishop, si.ssi.-ted by the Bishops of Wellington and ( heist.church, conducted the early part of the service. Archdeacon H. Williams preached an inspiring sermon in both tongues. The Bishop-elect was presented by the Bishops of Waiapu and Wellington, and Rev. Bennett made bis declaration.

The litany was said in Maori, led by the Rev. Pine xamaliori. The examination of the Bishop-elect by the Archbishop followed, and then the Rev. Bennett donned episcopal robes, which was (followed by prayer and the consecration of the Bishop-elect, and the presentation ol a Bible. ibe Sacrament was then administered by the Archbishop, assisted bv the Bishops of Nelson. WTiiapu, and Dunedin.