Atiu marks Te Arikianga o te Evangelia –200 years of Christianity

Two centuries ago on July 19, 1823, the Gospel made its way to the shores of Enuamanu/Atiu, forever changing the lives and culture of its people.

The people of Enuamanu rose in the early hours of yesterday morning to start “Te Arikianga o te Evangelia – Arrival of the Gospel Bicentennial” celebrations with the sounds of tangi kaara echoing throughout the land.

The festivities included a series of events which started at 4am with the tangi kaara, the unveiling of plaques, prayer gatherings and a special service at the Ziona Tapu Cook Islands Christian Church (CICC).

Over 500 visitors from Rarotonga, the Pa Enua, Aotearoa New Zealand and Australia are on the island to witness and participate in the historic event.

The official opening of the celebrations began on Sunday with a church service held at the Ziona Tapu church by Reverend Yakilia Vairoa.