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Religion

In Polynesia, the great majority of the population is extremely religious. As early as 1797, the first Protestant missionnaries arrive in Tahiti to evangelise the people of Oceania. In less than 30 years, all five archipelago convert to Christianity. Catholic missionaries, arrived later around 1830, settle first in the Gambier Islands. From there, they spread throughout all of Polynesia. Mormons, Sanitos and Adventists arrived at the end of the 19th century. Today, Protestants make up 50% of the population, far ahead of the Catholics (35%), the Mormons (5%), the Sanitos (5%), the Adventistes (3.5%) and the Jehovah Witnesses (1.5%). Nevertheless in the Marquesas Catholics are a strong majority.  

The often justified interference of the (Protestant) Evangelical Church in the islands' socio-economic life generates many contoversies. Its vehement political stands often inhibit the local authorities who, cautious not to loose votes, do not try to argue with it. Thus the Protestant Church took stands against French nuclear testing and the evils of "progress at any price" while basing itself on the faith of its members. It is also true that more than half of Polynesian political men (and women) sharpened their skills on the pews of the many local churches, learning the art of charisma and rhetoric. Nevertheless, do not miss to attend an evangelical religious office on Sunday morning, at the Paofai or Taunoa churches in Papeete, as well as in the outer islands.

Captivating singing, attires worn for the circumstance (hats and white dresses for women, dark pants and light color shirts for men) and exceptional fervor are waiting for you. In small islands, religious offices are always a major event in the tropical tranquility. A fascinating experience not to be missed.

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