VOLKNER'S CHURCH

Taranaki Daily News, Volume LII, Issue 343, 19 March 1910, Page 10

VOLKNER'S CHURCH

Great interest is being taken in the Bay of Plenty district in a project lor the rebuilding of St. Stephens' Church, Opotiki, otherwise known as "Volkner's Church," built in in 1862 by the Eev. Carl Cylvius Volkner, of the Church Missionary Society. It was an important centre of missionary activity. Kr. Volkner personally worked at the erection of the building, aided by hfs natives, the timber having been pit-saiwn in the adjacent bush. At the beginning of 1865, in consequence ofthe Maori war troubles, Mr. Volkner took the precaution of taking his wife to Auckland, but returned immediately to his post, hoping that his -influence might bring about a condition of quietude in the settlement. When he reached Opotiki, however, it was to find the place in the possession of Kereopa, the notorious rebel, who had arrived from Taranaki with a large following. Mr. Volkner was power;ess to stem the tide of rebellion in the district, .and was seized, and by Kereopa's orders put to death, the details of his martyrdom causing a thrill of horror through the country. After hanging him on a tree, the body was taken down hy the fanatical mob to the church, where it was horribly mutilated. The Wood-stains are still plainly visible after fifty years. Subsequently the fragments of the body were secured by friendiy natives, and were buried in the churchyard at the east of the building. On the arrival of the expedition under the command oi Major Brassy, sent by the Government to avenge the murder of Mr. Volkner, the church was taken and garrisoned, a redoubt built, and the church was loopholed for guns. During Te Kooti's raids it was the place of refuge for the isolated families through the district. When peace was again established, and as the country became more populated, the Government handed over the church to the settlers for divine worship. It was then consecrated by Bishop W. Williams, first Bishop of Waiapu, and called the Church of St. Stephen the Martyr. The building has now fallen into a condition of disrepair, tat on all sides the wish is expressed that if restoration be at all-possible this historic building with its valuable associations should be spared demolition. Expert opinion has been obtained and a satisfactory report given. The timber for the most part is excellently preserved, and the matter of restoration is quite possible. It has been decided, therefore, to proceed with ihe work, •and to add to the present building a chancel to the memory of the Rev. C. S. Volkner, missionary and martyr. This chancel will enclose the grave, the position of wnich will be immediately before the altar, and a memorial tablet will be inserted over the spot where the martyr's remains are interred.