Coming of the Light

1 July

Coming of the Light is a significant Torres Strait Islander observance. It marks the arrival of representatives of the London Missionary Society and South Sea Islander evangelists and teachers at Erub on 1 July 1871, and the introduction and adoption of Christianity across the Torres Strait.

The day is celebrated through religious and cultural ceremonies in Zenadth Kes and by Torres Strait Islander Communities on mainland Australia. Activities should centre Torres Strait Islander understandings of the date, faith, history and cultural continuity.

Ways to mark the date

• Follow guidance and resources from Torres Strait Islander Community and Church leaders.
• Learn about Erub, the Torres Strait and the way Christianity has been understood and practised by Torres Strait Islander people.
• Avoid presenting Torres Strait Islander history as beginning with missionary arrival, and recognise the much older cultures, laws and spiritual traditions of Zenadth Kes.

Sources and further reading

This section is under development. More information, sources and further reading will be added as this page grows.

• Torres Strait Island Regional Council, holidays and celebrations
• Torres Strait Island Regional Council, our region

Related products and resources

We are developing carefully selected products and learning resources for this date. This page will be updated as suitable items become available.