Marsden Cross

Picture / D. Plummer

“On Christmas Day, 1814, the first Christmas service in New Zealand was held on this spot by the Reverend Samuel Marsden,” is inscribed on the base of the Marsden Cross.

His text was Luke 2:10:

“BEHOLD I BRING YOU GOOD TIDINGS OF GREAT JOY.”

The Marsden Cross was erected on March 12th 1907.

On the 100th Anniversary (1914)

a special service was held at the cross.

On the 150th Anniversary (1964)

another service was held. The Preacher was the Reverend M. E. Marsden, great great grandson of Samuel Marsden. He came especially from England to preach.

Many, many Christmas services have been held since 1814 all over New Zealand.

Marsden Cross

Picture / D. Plummer

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See also Bicentennial Celebrations on this blog!