Nuku Hiva, July 5, 2017--Cathedral

By Pearl

This post is on church, but first David wants to update folks on our plans:  

Turns out the immigration office is closed today.  One person wanted to go on vacation and the other person wasn't back from hers so the office is closed.  We've been told by French sailors that this sort of approach is typical in France, with the exception of the Paris area, where folks have a better work ethic and see themselves as carrying the rest of the country. 

As this relates to us,  not only is our clock ticking, but the good weather window we've been hoping to catch is closing.  Five boats left today to take advantage of it and so arrive in the Tuamotus in good weather.  Our arrival weather is now likely to be a bit more challenging.  Is there anyone who loves bureaucracy?  Argghhh!!

So church...you may recall that I texted a couple of times about attending mass at the Catholic church.  Both were beautiful and interesting in different ways.  Always the music is spectacular. 

I wanted to include some pictures of the church before we leave Nuku Hiva, which we hope will be soon!

The view approaching the church, with this verdant shrine.

The huge carved doors.  Most of the statuary was locally carved and reflects Marquesan art forms.

The interior

The pulpit.  The carving is amazing.  I could recognize some of the symbolism, but I have no idea what the meaning of the eagle-like bird on top might be.  

Everywhere are garlands of fragrant flowers.  There must be thousands of individual blooms for the decoration for each Sunday.

Most of the liturgy was in Marquesan.  This is what the written form looks like.

White is clearly the preferred color for church attire.  

A family group gathered for photos in front of one of the shrines.

Going home through the beautiful gate

A cross faces you as you leave the church road look out across the bay.