OTAKI.

New Zealand Tablet, Volume XXXI, Issue 32, 6 August 1903, Page 20

OTAKI.

There was a very large congregation present in St. Mary s Church, Otaki, on Thursday, July 30, when a Solemn Requiem Mass for the repose of the soul of the late Pope was celebrated by the Rev. Father Melu, Rev. Father Delach being also present. A considerable number of natives (say's the local • Mail ')"were among the congregation. The church was appropriately draped in mourning, numerous folds of black, relieved by bows of white, being displayed in various directions. The whole of the draping had been carried out most effectively by the Sisters of the convent. The chanting and singing of the choir was most effectively rendered. The Rev. Father Melu expressed pleasure at the large number who had assembled to testify to their deep love and devotion for the late Holy Father, and specially thanked the choir for the excellent services rendered by them at so short a notice. He also addressed the Natives present, reminding them' that though the Rope was dead the Church was alive, and urging them to adhere to its teachings.

As the congregation dispersed the Dead March in 1 Saul ' was played on the organ. Previous to the celebration of Mass an ancient Native, Piripi te Ari, chanted a Maori waiata in memory of the late Pope, and a large number of Natives who were present said prayers for the repose of the soul of the departed Pontifi. The native women, in accordance with their usual custom on such occasions, wore tauas, or bands of greenery, round their heads, in token of mourning.