Salamaua’S First Church

THE first church to be erected at Salamaua, the port of the New Guinea goldfields, was opened on July 12. It was built by the Luth eran Mission.

The church was designed and con structed by Mr. H. Miers, of the Luth eran Mission, assisted by native Mis sion workers. The building is 64 feet long and 24 feet -wide, with walls 10 feet high. It has 15 windows and there is a two feet space above the walls, which makes It cool inside on the hottest day. The church has a decorative belfry-—quite a landmark from the sea.

With the exception of uprights and some roof timbers, all the wood used in the construction was obtained loc

ally. It included quila, kaihop, kae tang and kasang.

The Lutheran Mission Pastors en tertained the European population of Salamaua at the opening service. This was followed by a delightful luncheon party in the newly erected accommo dation houses on the beach. Superin tendent Lehner, from Pinchafen, and Rev. Lechner, from Malolo, were the hosts. Mrs. Lechner received the vis iting ladies.

Rev. Zahn conducted the native shell band, which gave an excellent performance. The music was similar to that from an organ.

A very fine address was given by Pastor Pietz, touching on “European Example and Prestige.”

The native choir chanted in the Jabem language, the harmony and “balance” being perfect.