THE MAORI AND THE CHURCH

Taranaki Daily News, Volume LIII, Issue 261, 25 March 1911, Page 4

THE MAORI AND THE CHURCH

OFFERINGS TOTAL £742 i Tokomaru Bay, March 23. The triennial Maori Synod of the diocese of Waiapu has just finished its session at Waiomatatini, the headquarters of the Ngatiporau tribe, and the chief settlement in the Waiapu Valley from which the diocese received its name. Representatives from all parts of the diocese attended, and on Sunday 1000 people were present. The necessary organisation for the reception and entertainment of the visitors were in the capable bands of the Hon. A. T. Ngata, and the success of this remarkable gathering is due mainly to his efforts. A great welcome was given to the visitors in true Maori custom on Saturday afternoon. In the evening the great tribal meeting-house called Porourangi held a congregation of 000, while 300 more stood outside. The Bishop of Waiapu delivered a stirring address, his remarks being interpreted by the Rev. F. Bennett. On Sunday services were held in the open-air. On Monday morning the meetings were opened with a special service for clergy and laity at 7 a.m. At 1) a.m. the offerings of each tribe were collected and amounted to the magnificent sum of £742. The Hon. Ngata handed over £SOO to the Bishop for the Hukarcro Girls' School (which amount is to be subsidised £ for £ by Mr. J. N. Williams), and £l5O to "Archdeacon Williams towards the Manutuke Church Fund, the balance going towards the expenses of the gathering. This is probably the largest Maori church gathering for the last sixty years.