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New Zealand » Tourist Attractions in New Plymouth » St Mary’s Pro-Cathedral |
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| St Mary’s Pro-Cathedral |
St Mary’s Pro-Cathedral is the oldest Church made of stone in New Zealand. The architecture is of early Gothic style. St Mary’s Pro-Cathedral was opened to public for worship on a St. Michael's Day on 29th September, 1846. It is a must visit spot of sightseeing in New Plymouth.
It is a house, having multi functions and is used for worship, teaching and fellowship. The mission of the church is to be “Christ” to the community and follow his teachings as earnestly as possible. This is one of the eminent tourist attractions in New Plymouth, for its great cultural and religious aspects.
The construction of the first part of the church started in March 1845. The land of the church has been acquired by Bishop Selwyn from the Plymouth Company of New Zealand. Bishop Selwyn is still remembered for his legendary journey around his Diocese, on foot, for establishing new settlements for the community.
It was Selwyn and his vicar William Bolland, who decided that the entire church will be built in stone. The building was designed by Fredrick Thatcher. The local settlers contributed their labour, when they could not give monitory support. The Bishop and his relatives gave 400 pounds towards the cost of 1095 pounds.
At that time it was just being converted into a Parish church. But the church underwent a set back when the Vicar Bolland died at the young age of 27. After this, Bolland's cousin Reverend Henry Govett succeeded him. His regime continued for the next fifty years and in the mean time the generous help from the family had much contribution in the making of St Mary’s Pro-Cathedral. Now it is under the Taranaki Archdeaconry.
The Land Wars of 1860 affected the church. The tombstone in the church yard, the memorials in form of hatchments are silent reminders of the past. The “Friendly Maori”, a memorial to the Maori is also housed by the Cathedral. These all bear evidence to the troubled times.
Gradually the community grew and various changes took place in the building. The Gathering Space, The Hatherly Hall office meeting rooms, kitchens on the two levels of The St Mary’s Pro-Cathedral in New Plymouth are new additions.
For more information on St Mary’s Pro-Cathedral visit travel.mapsofworld
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