Missionary Day in French Polynesia, locally known as "Gospel Day" or in Tahitian, "Arrivée de l'Évangile", is an important religious and cultural holiday celebrated annually on March 5th. This day commemorates the arrival of the first Christian missionaries to the region.

History:

• Missionary Day marks the arrival of Protestant missionaries from the London Missionary Society on March 5, 1797.
• The ship "Duff," under Captain James Wilson, carried these missionaries to Tahiti.
• Their aim was to spread Christianity among the islanders, which led to a significant transformation in Polynesian culture and society.

Traditions:

• Religious services are held to honor the day. Churches across French Polynesia hold special sermons and gospel readings.
• Traditional hymns and prayers are a significant part of these services.
• Reenactments of the missionaries' arrival sometimes take place.

Activities:

• Families often gather for large communal meals featuring traditional Polynesian food.
• Cultural performances including singing, dancing, and drumming are common festivities that showcase Tahitian heritage.
• Public events may include parades or exhibitions that reflect upon both religious significance and cultural identity.

Missionary Day serves both as a time for spiritual reflection among Christian Polynesians and an opportunity to celebrate their rich cultural history influenced by missionary encounters.