Spheres of influence
p. 69 · Read in the full issue
influence
Missionaries of the Gilbert and Ellice Islands have virtually come to a “gentleman’s agree ment” over religious influences in the colony. The Sacred Heart Mission (Roman Catholic) dominates the Gilberts and the Protestant Church (formerly London Missionary Society) dominates the Ellice atolls.
Protestant influence is also strong on the southern Gilbert atolls of Aoroae, Nikunau and Tamana.
Dr. Hiram Bingham, of the American Boston Board of Foreign Missions, introduced Christianity (Protestant-style) to the Gilberts in 1857.
In 1870, Reverend J. S. White, of the LMS, extended Christ ianity into the southern Gilberts and Ellice atolls. Catholicism arrived in the Gilberts in 1888.