Gospel Day draws an assembly from each of the Cook Islands Christian Church (CICC) Ekalesia on Rarotonga to perform gospel dramas or “nuku” to commemorate the Arrival of Christianity to the Cook Islands.

The Gospel Day, popularly known as Nuku Day, is a public holiday observed on October 26. This year, since the date falls on a Saturday, the public holiday will be observed on Monday, October 28.

This year’s Nuku Day will be hosted by the Ngatangiia Ekalesia at their mission church grounds in Avana.

Ioteva Kirikava, secretary of the Ngatangiia CICC, says Monday’s Nuku programme will start at 9am with an appearance from all the Ekalesia – Arorangi, Avarua, Matavera, Ngatangiia, Nikao and Titikaveka, marching into the grounds.

The Ekalesia will each perform vibrant acts based on the theme “David and Goliath”.

Visitors are welcome to watch the popular annual gospel event.

Last year, the Titikaveka Ekalesia hosted the event. It was particularly special with a two-day celebration in Rarotonga for the commemoration of 200 years of Te Arikianga o te Evangelia/The Arrival of Christianity. Nga Pu Toru islands of Mitiaro, Mauke and Atiu also celebrated their gospel bicentennial celebrations.

This year the island of Mangaia celebrated their 200 years of Te Arikianga o te Evangelia in June.