After three months of labour intensive renovations the Arorangi Cook Islands Christian Church (CICC) will open its new doors tomorrow for its anticipated Dedication and Reopening ceremony.

Named Ziona (Zion), the church has historic significance.

It is the fourth church constructed for the Arorangi congregation which was originally completed in 1849 by Tinomana Enuarurutini Ariki (dcd 24th October, 1854) and his tribe, with some assistance from Rev. William Gill of the London Missionary Society (now the CICC).

Tahitian missionary Papehia (Papehia Teato) who was one of the first missionaries to live and preach the Christian Gospel in the Cook Islands, is buried in the centre of the church graveyard.

Renovations began in early March to prepare for ‘Te Arikianga o te Evangelia’ 200-year Bicentennial Celebrations for the Arrival of the Gospel next month.

This is the first renovation of its kind and the Arorangi Ekalesia have overcome many challenges including financial constraints to have the rebuild completed on time.

Okirua Teokoitu, the Ekalesia secretary said he had approached Murienua Member of Parliament (MP) Teariki Heather and T&M Heather Ltd who willingly accepted to come on board to assist with the renovations.

The vainetini group led by Vaine Teokoitu, Mata Kelly and Maota Gosselin, mobilised a dedicated group of women who provided a hearty lunch for the workers every day.

The Dedication ceremony will start at 5pm tomorrow Thursday, 22 June.

Guests will be seated in front of the Ziona Tapu grounds and welcomed by Emcee – Tiakono Teariki Purua.

The Arorangi Ekalesia Reverend Tinirau Soatini will conduct the opening prayer followed by the unveiling of the plaques for the new doors and windows.

Guests will then be seated inside the church for the Dedication Service followed by refreshments in the Aroanui Hall.