THE MARSDEN MEMORIAL.

Rangitikei Advocate and Manawatu Argus, Volume XXXI, Issue 8762, 13 March 1907, Page 2

THE MARSDEN MEMORIAL.

Per Pi ess Association Wellington, March 13. The Marsdcn Cross was unveiled at Ransihoua, Bay of Islands, by the Governor. There was a large attendance of Europeans and natives. The monument, one of tiie most interesting in the colony, is erected on the site of the first Christian service held in New Zealand, conducted by the Rev. Samuel Marsdcn, nearly 100 years ago. The unveiling ceremony passed off with the success befitting an event of such national interest. The Governor said he felt it a great privilege to bo permitted to take part in the ceremony. It was often remarked nowadays that Christianity was not making the progress it should, but from the monument before them they would bo able to draw courage by remembering Marsdcn and the difficulties and dangers he surmounted. The monument is in the. form of a Celtic cross, 20ft Sin high, and constructed of Melbourne Milestone. It bears the inscription—" On Christmas Day, 1814, the first Christian servico in Now Zealand was held on this spot by the Rev. Samuel Marsdeu.''