More than 600 members from the six Ekalesia of the Cook Islands Christian Church (CICC) on Rarotonga came together on Nuku Day (Gospel Day) celebrations to commemorate and celebrate the arrival of Christianity.

The annual event, held on Thursday at Teimurimotia Park in Titikaveka, featured well-staged biblical dramas and joyous singing from the participants.

Ben Ken, secretary of the CICC Ekalesia executive committee, expressed that the biblical drama presentations, focused on the theme of “Te Oki Mai Nei a Iesu (Jesus is Coming Soon)”, were of a high standard.

Ken noted that after the bicentennial Arrival of Christianity celebrations in Nga Pu Toru and Rarotonga in July this year, the Ekalesia members wholeheartedly dedicated themselves to their performances.

“It was wonderful to see our children and youth pouring their hearts into their nuku performances,” he said.

Ben emphasised the CICC executive committee’s wish to preserve and maintain the tradition of Nuku Day Gospel Day.

“We would like our children and grandchildren to continue this legacy and keep it alive for future generations,” he said.

The weather was “perfect” and Nuku Day brought joy to both visitors and Ekalesia members, Ben said.

Reverend Panu Rouru from the Matavera Ekalesia declared the event open.

The Nuku drama acts were presented by: Ngatangiia – Parable of the Ten Virgins, Matavera – The Judgement of the Nations, Avarua – The Thief in the Night, Nikao – The Cloud Rider, Arorangi – The Second Coming of Christ, and Titikaveka (host) – The New Heaven and Earth.

On behalf of the CICC executive committee, Ben thanked the six Ekalesia of Rarotonga for their participation and effort in the event, the parents for their support, and the Titikaveka Ekalesia for hosting.

Next year, the Ngatangiia Ekalesia will host Nuku Day 2024.