The journey of faith and religion in the Cook Islands – from Tangaroa to Rongo, from Christianity to Pentecostalism – has always been marked by resistance, writes Thomas Tarurongo Wynne.

In 1821, Christianity was introduced by the London Missionary Society (LMS), led by Reverend John Williams and Tahitian teachers Papeiha, Vahapata, and Tiberio. While some embraced the new faith, others clung to their spiritual customs, resisting what they saw as an imposition. The draconian Blue Laws, banning activities such as walking with a woman at night, tattoos, or drinking kava, created divisions within villages.

In 1894, the Catholic Church made its mark when Father Bernardin Castanie arrived in Rarotonga from Tahiti. He established St. Joseph’s School in 1895 despite strong resistance from Protestant communities, who viewed Catholicism as a threat to their dominance. Catholicism gradually expanded, reaching Manihiki in 1922. By 1966, the Diocese of Rarotonga was officially established, solidifying its presence.

The Seventh-day Adventist Church (SDA) arrived in 1891, brought by missionaries aboard the Pitcairn, who visited Mangaia, Rarotonga, and Aitutaki. Their focus on medical missions, led by Dr. Joseph Caldwell, gained acceptance by addressing critical health needs. However, their emphasis on Saturday Sabbath observance met resistance from traditional leaders accustomed to Sunday worship. Despite opposition, the first SDA church in Titikaveka was completed in 1904, supported by local members and Australasian Sabbath Schools – with Papaaroa school built not long afterwards.

By the 1920s, new denominations brought further spiritual diversity. The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS) began efforts in the late 19th century, with sporadic visits by missionaries. In 1942, Carl Fritz Bunge-Krueger, ordained in Auckland, returned to Rarotonga to establish the church. Early converts like Mii Henry and Samuel Glassie faced opposition, but by 1958, purpose-built meetinghouses marked the growth of the LDS Church. By 1996, the LDS celebrated 50 years in the Cook Islands, honouring pioneers who persevered despite challenges.

The Bahá'í Faith arrived in 1953, followed by the formation of its National Spiritual Assembly in 1966. While its universalist message resonated with some, others saw it as outside traditional frameworks. Over time, acceptance grew, supported by land and a hall gifted by Ariki Pa Terito Ariki.

Pentecostalism also gained momentum in the mid-1900s, driven by leaders like Pastor Tukua Tangaroa and Bishop Tutai Pere. The Assemblies of God (AOG) movement, led by Pastor Tangaroa, initially faced resistance for its charismatic practices, such as speaking in tongues and faith healing, which challenged established norms. The founding of Imanuela Akatemia further integrated Pentecostalism into the community. By the late 20^th century, leaders like Bishop Tutai Pere brought Apostolic Pentecostalism into the mainstream, with the New Hope and then Pastor Johnathan Cargill at Celebration and Pastor Kapo Kapo at the Dream Centre.

Nonetheless, resistance continues as our nation grapples with making room at the table for a new religion – this time, one outside the fold of Christianity. And, as with anyone who comes and sits at the table, of our country, we must consider what they bring and whether their spiritual offering aligns with who we are and how we see ourselves, not only now but also into the distant future.

Some say, but “God is love” and this is true, but to reduce Him solely to three human letters would be simply dishonest.

As parents, we quickly learn that love is not just saying yes to our children but knowing also when to say no. Protecting them from the dangers that they cannot yet see or understand – God is no different.

So again, we pray for wisdom, that our leaders may discern when to say yes to a seat at the table of our country – and when to say no. Our constitution as it stands is clear on this matter, as the invitation for submissions goes out to hear also from the voice and wisdom of our people.