RATANA'S CALL.

Shannon News, 23 August 1921, Page 3

RATANA'S CALL.

TOUR ENDING AT CHRISTMAS. t The, Rev. Piri Munro, of Ohinemuui, who accompanied Ratana during the latter’s tour of the South Island Mauri settlements, addressed a crowded gathering on “The Healer’s Life and Activities." He said that last May a definite intimation was received by Ratana through the Celestial Being that he was to visit natives all over the North, South and Chatham Islands, and go to whatever settlement invited him. He set out on his tour. At his first meeting 500 natives publicly declared their faith in the Holy Trinity, and said they would renounce the old go'ls of their forefathers.

Mr Munro explained that Ratan a asked him to continue with him in the mission as they worked in harmony, and the bishop’s consent having been obtained, he remained with the healer and came south With him. His own duty was to speak to assemblages and create a proper spiritual atmosphfere. He understood the Maori mind. His great grandfather was one of the last of the high priests, and the oracles, of Maori paganism had been passed on to him by his grandfather, who had brought him up. “Knowing the Maori mind,” he said, “I watched Ratana closely, and I have never once seen in his work the slightest indication of ‘Maoriism.’ It may be asked why should Ratana net treat Pakehas also? 1 think Ratana is being used to free the native mind from the influence of ‘Maoriism’ or Tohungaism,’ and his gift of healing is only given to impress the people. I never realised before how steeped our race' is in ‘Maoriism.’ It is often disheartening to see 'native boys and girls, after receiving a good education and being well placed in the world, suddenly go wrong and make a mess of the whole thing. Their failure must be attributed to the Maori mind, which some time or other takes charge of the psychological position and diverts the steps. We Maori clergy have failed to overcome the handicap of the Maori mind, but Ratana has been raised up by God to do so. It has been indicated to him that his Itinerary through the Maori settlements must cease next Christmas. He does not know if he is to continue in the mission of healing after that, but a great gathering of natives will be held at liis place next Christmas Day.”