| The E-Newspaper of the Episcopal Diocese of Hawai'i Reporting on the events & activities in our Diocese and beyond...
August-October 2018
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Bishop's Calendar
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*** OCTOBER ***
October 5
Chapel: 'Iolani School
October 7
Visitation: Holy Apostles, Hilo
October 14
Visitation: Holy Nativity, Honolulu
October 20
Governance Meetings
October 26-27
Education Day and Annual Meeting, Kailua-Kona, Big Island
*** NOVEMBER ***
November 2
Chapel: 'Iolani School
November 3
Celebration of New Ministry: The Rev. Andrew McMullen, St. Michael's, Lihue
November 6
Chapel: St. Andrew's Schools
November 8
Staff Retreat
November 11-15
Bishops Course for new ECP Bishops, Philippines
November 17
Governance Meetings
November 18
Visitation: St. Timothy's, Aiea
November 20
Chapel: St. Andrew's Schools
November 21
Chapel: 'Iolani School
November 25
Service: St. Andrew's (Feast of the Holy Sovereigns)
*** DECEMBER ***
December 1-2
Visitation: Grace, Moloka'i
December 5
Chapel: 'Iolani School
December 5
Non-Sunday Visit: St. John's By-the-Sea, Kaneohe
December 8
Ordination: The Rev. Christ Bridges, Holy Nativity, Honolulu
December 9
Visitation: St. John the Baptist, Waianae
December 11-26
Vacation
December 22
Ordination: The Rev. Jasmine Bostock, St. Peter's, Honolulu
December 24-25
Services: St. Andrew's (Christmas)
View the Bishop's Calendar on the web
HERE.
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Stay Informed!
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Connect directly to the
Diocesan Website:
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The Bishop's Report to the 50th Annual Meeting of the Convention of The Episcopal Diocese of Hawai'i
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Introduction
As I begin my report to the Convention, I must thank you again for calling me to be your Bishop. This is my twelfth report as your Bishop for an Annual Meeting of the Convention. Fifty years ago, the first meeting organized the new Diocese to be inaugurated at the turn of the new year in 1969. That is why we will celebrate 2019 as the golden anniversary of the Diocese of Hawaiʻi. It is a rare honor to be Bishop as we celebrated two major milestones, both the sesquicentennial of the founding of the Church in Hawaiʻi (2012) and now look to the 50th anniversary of becoming a Diocese of the Episcopal Church (2019).
In 2017, we completed a major three-part review of our common life as a Diocese: 1. Mutual Ministry Review. 2. Bishop's Professional Performance Review. 3. Strategic Initiatives. Our consultant through this has been Dr. Kim Payton, an organizational psychologist. The following are my reflections on that work and on how it impacted this past year.
I.
The Mutual Ministry Review
brought to consciousness some important insights. In the past ten years (my tenure as Bishop 2007-2017), the Diocese has had three strategic plans. The consultant noted that while we dutifully fulfilled our goals, we weren't always as clear on how our goals would fulfill our vision of a vital Diocese. We reduced the Diocesan assessment of each congregation's operating income through the years from 26% to 18%. This happened following the economic crisis of 2008. In reality, however, the actual income from the assessment income saw no loss in any year. Giving and other income continued to increase to offset the rate reductions. The size of the Diocesan Council (corporate board) was reduced from 21 to 12 members. We also reduced the number of committees and commissions. Until 2017, we maintained a Diocesan ASA of about 3,000 for the past decade. We dipped just below that last year with the losses being largely attributed to deaths and moves. An important learning was that some of the historically strong congregations are declining, but that other key congregations are growing. We can learn from those congregations. In the past ten years, we significantly increased outreach ministries throughout the Diocese. We were exactly not clear how all the actions noted above necessarily fulfilled our goal to encourage a vital Diocese.
There were some learnings of note: (1) There seemed to be no conscious connection to "outreach" and "faith". (2) Lay members desire greater community and interconnection as Episcopalians across congregations and within their own congregations. (3) There is the desire for deeper faith and meaningful personal spirituality. (4) There is significant pride that the Diocese has ordained more Native Hawaiians and "local" clergy in the past ten years than at any point in its history. (4) There is some fear: of aging congregation members, the loss of younger members to the "mainland" (usually attributed to the high cost of living), and that events on the "mainland" will negatively impact life in the Islands. (5) On the whole, folk are comfortable, appreciate their clergy (and their Bishop), and want the Episcopal Church to be known as the "progressive" and "inclusive" church in the islands (albeit while being somewhat conflict avoidant).
From our conversations, I concluded that the Episcopal Diocese of Hawaiʻi is grounded in three adjectives:
- Hawaiian: Our very founding is defined by the invitation from King Kamehameha IV and Queen Emma. It is extremely rare that a Church showed up by invitation anywhere - not as colonizers, but as welcomed guests. Though historically, we have been too often connected to the Aliʻi in history, we are of the Islands and it is our kuleana, entrusted to the Church by the Monarchs, to care for the spiritual well-being of the people and the land. If you haven't seen it, please watch "Grace and Beauty: 150 Years of the Episcopal Church in Hawai'i" (https://vimeo.com/50794332). We take pride in our history.
- Progressive: The Episcopal Church has been at the forefront of social issues for decades in the Islands. This has included supporting plantation workers on Kaua'i during labor disputes, the fight for marriage equality, the drive to eliminate homelessness, working for prison reform, and advocating for Hawaiian land rights. There are many ministries in the Diocese today seeking to have a positive impact on communities - there's "A Cup of Cold Water" on Maui, laundry ministries, feeding ministries, food banks, sheltering folk, shower ministry, etc. We take pride in being inclusive and engaged.
- Catholic: We were founded under the influence of the Oxford Movement with Queen Emma's Church of England connections being very High Church. In fact, the first name of the Church here was "The Reformed Catholic Church in the Kingdom of Hawaii." Now, we are decidedly sacramental. We want the Holy Eucharist to be celebrated in our churches every week. We have longed for more local candidates for ordination and that has come to fruition in the past decade. There is a certain pride in being the "'local,' inclusive catholic Church in Hawaiʻi".
On the whole, we are stable, but there is concern about the future.
II.
The Bishop's Professional Performance Review was very important to me. The Consultant's final report came to over twelve pages (single-spaced) and was delivered after last year's Annual Meeting of Convention; it has been shared with the Standing Committee. I wanted to share some important personal learnings.
The report noted that the "... traditional role description [for the Bishop] assumes that the Bishop's ministry is in a particular relationship with the Gospel of Jesus Christ and the People entrusted to his care. The Church is in transition, which means it is in a state of dangerous opportunity. The Church is in need of significant change. A Bishop is not exactly a CEO of a business, but a Minister of the Gospel within the particular structures of the Episcopal Church. Beyond the historic functions, however, the Bishop must be able to navigate in a society and Church that is changing significantly and will require great adaptability, and in that way the Bishop must act like a CEO in the 21st century serving as a change agent being nimble to respond to evolving needs."
The surveys and interviews found that I am "seen as an ethical, hardworking, committed leader who understands the organization and the business, is good at judging talent and engaging in constructive dialogue and setting priorities."
The report noted that perceptions of me as the Bishop fall into two categories: "1. He is seen as a caring and supportive pastor by those who have interacted directly with him in relation to situations where pastoral care was required. 2. He is seen by others who have seen him ignore situations where pastoral care was needed." In a follow-up interview for the report, I admitted that there are times when I just do not recognize a need, and that I need for others to let me know that a need exists and to help me find a way to respond. It was noted that this has been significantly alleviated with Canon Graham in place as the Canon for Congregational Life and Leadership.
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Family Sickness and Pono
A Reflection by The Rev. Cn. Alexander Graham, Canon for Congregational Life and Leadership
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 I have often heard Bishop Bob remind clergy that responsibilities to spouse (or family) come before responsibilities to the Church. It follows the old axiom of priorities:
God, then Family, then Work. This can get muddled, of course, when your work is in the Church; a calling from God - but family is likewise a calling from God (and those of us who are married also made vows before God regarding those relationships).
The Bishop's reminder comes to some as a gentle reminder and to others as a bit of a shock to the system. Family comes first. It is a good reminder to us all that work/life balance can be not only a difficult struggle in the Church, but also somewhat of an existential crisis. We might not always strike the right balance, but we need to always have in mind the priorities of
right relationship. We know instinctively that although relationships to siblings, spouses, friends, and strangers are all to be based in Love, those loving relationships are each unique. Having things in
right relationship (whether people or material items in our lives) is at the heart of the biblical concept of
righteousness. I think that synchronizes rather well with the concept of
pono.
[A few weeks ago], as many of you know, Bea Fitzpatrick had a health scare and spent most of a day in the hospital (have no fear, all is well). It was a clear decision on Bishop Bob's part to leave that evening's Episcopal Asiamerica Ministry (EAM) liturgy, Presiding Bishop Michael Curry, and other dignitaries in the capable hands of the Cathedral and EAM staff, and to cancel his trip along with Bishop Curry to Guam in order to stay with Bea. When Bishop Bob met with our staff, he said simply, "Bea comes first." Our response? "Of course she does."
I got to witness, in that moment, the Bishop take his own advice; to practice what he preaches. I witnessed our staff's unwavering support of the Bishop and his family. I later reflected that most don't have this unique window into the life of this office, and thought this scene too important to keep to myself.
When we internalize the priorities, when we have a good sense of
right relationships, we gain clarity even in difficult circumstances - whether or not our work is in the Church, whether or not other important events or important individuals are involved, the decision becomes clearer -- in our individual lives, in our life together as a community, and our life as the Body of Christ.
Ua Mau ke Ea o ka 'Āina I ka Pono (The life of the land is perpetuated in righteousness)
"You must understand this, my beloved: let everyone be quick to listen, slow to speak, slow to anger; for your anger does not produce God's righteousness." - James 1:19-21
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DIOCESAN NEWS
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2018 has proven to be a challenging year for many in Hawai'i. Floods, volcanic eruptions, brush fires and continuing storms have caused unprecedented damage and heartache. Some of our congregations have been affected more than others, but the generous hearts and hands of our members have reached out to to assist those affected not only in Hawai'i, but around the world. Like the previous Chronicle, this is a belated double issue that reflects a Diocese full of activity, resilience and the faithful!
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Episcopal Church Women
Reporting on the 49th Triennial ECW Convention
Louise Aloy Honored at Luncheon
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| Members of Province VIII ECW take a moment between activities for a photo. Hawai'i delegates were Louise Aloy at far left, sixth from left is Sandy Leialoha, and third from right is Laurie Lee. |
The Episcopal Church Women's 49th Triennial Meeting was held in conjunction with the General Convention of the Episcopal Church in Austin, Texas, from July 5-12, 2018. Representing Hawai'i were Louise Aloy, President of ECW in Hawai'i and Province VIII, Sandy Leialoha, and Laurie Lee.
 One of the highlights of the event was the Distinguished Women's Luncheon where women from all nine provinces of The Episcopal Church were honored for their work in their communities and throughout the Church. Among those recognized was our very own Louise Aloy, who has served as ECW Hawai'i's President for many years, and in numerous positions both in the National ECW, the Diocese of Hawai'i, and in her home church, Good Shepherd on Maui. Her service and leadership are widely-known throughout the Diocese, and Bishop Robert Fitzpatrick attended the luncheon to help celebrate Louise's achievements and the well-deserved honor.
The following are excerpts from Louise Aloy's report to the Diocese, along with reports and reflections from Sandy Leialoha and Laurie Lee.
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ECW Triennial Meeting 2018 Report to the Diocese
By Louise Aloy, President
This is my sixth time to experience General Convention and the ECW Triennial Meeting. The overall experience each time is an overwhelming one filled with joy, laughter and so much knowledge about the Church, missions and ministries.
I am always in awe being among my sisters and brothers in Christ at these gatherings, and am many times moved to tears when the Holy Spirit comes upon me, whether at a Eucharist service, a late night hearing, or an event outside of the convention center.
Each night, when I returned to my hotel room exhausted from the day's activities and Texas heat, I thanked Jesus for filling me with his never failing love and grace. I thanked Jesus for allowing me the opportunities to network with other women and to grow in my faith journey. I thanked Jesus for meeting old acquaintances and for making new friends along the way. My cup runneth over... Jesus strengthens me to continue to be of service to others for him.
Here are some of the highlights of my participation this year:
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 From July 2 -5, I attended a CPC (Church Periodical Club) conference as the newly elected Province VIII Representative to the CPC National Board. The incoming board was installed by Presiding Bishop Michael Curry.
- From July 5-11, I attended the ECW Triennial Meeting as a delegate from Hawai'i and part of Province VIII. Presiding Bishop Michael Curry presented each of us with our Triennial 2018 cross at the opening celebration.
- Attended five Plenary Sessions, listened to keynote speakers on Social Justice, heard UTO Grant announcements, discussed Bylaws and Resolutions, voted for the incoming ECW National Board and witnessed the installation of the 2018-2021 NECW Board.
- On Sunday, July 8, I was honored as the Diocese of Hawai'i's Distinguished Woman at a luncheon which Bishop Bob attended. It was truly an honor and I am forever grateful for this acknowledgment.
- From July 8-10, I attended numerous workshops including Faith and Environment/Greening Congregations; Food, Faith and Fellowship; Listening: A Sacred Art and a Spiritual Practice; Wake up! See! Hear! Share! The Episcopal Community
- On Monday, July 9, at the Province VIII Annual Meeting and Installation Breakfast, my three-year term as ECW President of Province VIII ended and VP, Evita Krislock, from the Diocese of Spokane, became the new President for the term 2018-2021.
- On July 11, the closing Celebration and Eucharist was a very special one. Until we meet again in Baltimore in 2021, we bid our farewell to all. It was another great Triennial Meeting for ECW.
It is an honor and privilege to serve the women from the Diocese of Hawai'i as their President and delegate to this Triennial Meeting. I am grateful for the opportunity to serve and to be of service to Christ.
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Reflections from Sandy Leialoha
The theme was GO! Share the Word: Every Day, Comunicamos, EveryWhere. The ECW Triennium is always a time of worship, sharing of ministries, gratitude, and friendships. We had a number of keynote speakers that explored the factors of how we as Christians in this modern world can have some impact on human frailty, mission and reconciliation.
The ECW had morning meditations and music in addition to joint worship with the members of the General Convention. The Rev. Cathy Boyd was the chaplain that led us through the meditations. She used the theme to explore how we are always on a spiritual journey to God. We may stumble, but God always welcomes us to begin again. She used a number of our church heroines as models and guideposts for our own journeys and her first guidepost was our own Queen Emma. We followed Queen Emma's journey that began at home being raised by four parents, and the "stumblings" she faced with the outbreak of the smallpox epidemic and deaths of her beloved husband, King Kamehameha IV, and son, Prince Albert, but still she returned home doing good work for the church, her home, and her people.
Workshops were held throughout the triennium and I participated in ministries of affiliated groups such as the
United Thank Offering
and
The Girls' Friendly Society
. I also attended sessions for developing new ministries, where women shared the many challenges they faced. Often there were obstacles with developing new ministries including some created by the church, but the women persevered with the end result being that of evangelism. My favorite workshops were those that helped us with our own spiritual development. We explored spiritual tools for a healthy relationship with God similar to tools for healthy eating for our bodies.
It is a tradition for the ladies attending Triennium to share in the ministry of the diocese where the event is held. The Trinity Shower Ministry (of Trinity Center) in Austin and the Community First! Village in Central Texas, were the ministries that were chosen. The Trinity Shower Ministry provides a safe place for homeless women to shower without having to worry about losing their belongings. The ECW prepared packages of toiletries and gave financial gifts for the ladies helped by the shower ministry. For the recipients, it is like a weekly trip to the spa. The Community First! Village is a community in Central Texas with various types of housing for the disabled and chronically homeless.
Pictured above from left: A
makeshift shower was set-up with the names of donors written on blue paper water droplets and taped to the curtain. Toiletries, washcloths, socks, & insect repellent were collected to make kits to give away for the shower ministry; the second and third photos are birdhouses that were made to collect donations for the Community First! Village, and at far right, a picture of one of the many types of affordable permanent housing that support disabled and chronically homeless in Central Texas. (Photos and captions by Laurie Lee)
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Reflections from Laurie Lee
My week in Austin began on Thursday morning, July 5, when I attended the Opening Eucharist for the General Convention. The service was well attended by Bishops & Deputies from both Houses, ECW Triennial delegates, and many others.
Presiding Bishop Michael Curry's sermon centered around "The Way of Love: Practices for Jesus-Centered Life."
He encouraged all Episcopalians to "throw yourself into the arms of Jesus... always talk in the manner of love...and b
efore you do anything, meditate on the life & teachings of Jesus." In his sermon, he reminded us to "Keep your eyes on the prize! Keep your eyes focused on this Jesus, on his teachings, on his spirit, abide with him, dwell with him, live in him, when you live in him guess what? He'll start living in you!"
The theme reminded me of the 1990s phrase, "What Would Jesus Do (WWJD.)" We all need to reflect our Heavenly Father with our words and with our actions. Show love and compassion to all.
Amene
After traveling 14 hours to get from Honolulu to Austin, I came away from the service energized and looking forward to the week's activities. "Thank you Jesus!"
On Saturday, July 7, I attended the Revival Worship Service at the Palmer Center. Pictured above left, bus rides were provided. There were some protesters along the road leading to the Palmer Center, but that did not deter the spirit inside the center. It was a wonderful time of music, singing and worship. Presiding Bishop Michael Curry continued God's message of love by sharing the Gospel of John.
I recall a part of his message at the revival "...the opposite of love is not hate. The opposite of love is selfishness, and hatred is a derivative of selfishness... and love is the cure..."
Workshops were held in the afternoons and I was able to attend Faith & Environment/Greening Congregations; Food, Faith, & Fellowship; Listening: A Sacred Art and a Spiritual Practice; and Welcoming the Recovery Community in Our Churches.
The closin
g Triennial celebration & Eucharist was held on July 11, which included the commissioning of the new ECW Board. At the end, several ladies went around the room and anointed each one of us with oil and the laying on of hands, and said a prayer before we returned back home. It was such a powerful and wonderful way to end our time together.
Thank you Heavenly Father for the opportunity to serve as a delegate to the Triennial. It has been an honor and privilege to serve ECW of
Hawai'i.
In case you missed it, the Special Edition E-Chronicle covering The General Convention of The Episcopal Church may be viewed HERE.
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Diocesan Annual Clergy Retreat on Maui
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| Above is a group shot of our clergy taken at Holy Innocents in Lahaina where Eucharist and dinner took place on the first day of the retreat. (Photo by Bruce DeGooyer) |
This year's annual Clergy Retreat took place on Maui, August 27-29, 2018, at the Ka'anapali Beach Hotel. The guest speaker was Rosa Say, a workplace culture coach and author of the book Managing with Aloha. Despite the threat from Hurricane Lane, the retreat forged ahead, and attendees enjoyed a memorable time together. The following are excerpts of accounts and reflections from four of the clergy who attended.
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The Rev. Irene Tanabe, Epiphany, Honolulu, O'ahu
Clergy, on a retreat? What's that all about? The word "retreat" in Merriam's' Dictionary reads: "an act or process of withdrawing especially from what is difficult, dangerous, or disagreeable." So maybe you are wondering what is so awful that the clergy must withdraw as a group! Well, let me assure you there is more than one definition, and you will find that a "retreat" is "a period of group withdrawal for prayer, meditation, study, or instruction under a director" and that's just what we did when we gathered on the shores of Kana'apali in Maui.
Our Eucharist was held at Holy Innocents Church in Lahaina, followed by dinner at the beachfront rectory. Our time of formal instruction was held over three days with time in between for our "homework" and to read, reflect, and gather with our fellow clergy. The instruction was on "Managing with Aloha," with Rosa Say, author of the book with this title, and founder and coach of Say Leadership Coaching.
Rosa Say's mission is to bring an awareness of the concept of aloha -- the outpouring and receiving of the spirit -- and its effectiveness in managing and leading organizations. She challenged us to identify our core Hawaiian values that would form our ministry. Over three days, we looked at what it means to live into the values of aloha and ho'ohana (to work with intent and purpose), to connect with our sense of place and belonging, and to see what leading with aloha looks like in practice.
Our work was made easier because we were staying at the Kana'apali Beach Hotel, arranged for us under the attentive eye of our own Louise Aloy. The hotel has fully embraced "managing with aloha." Some years back, the hotel employees participated in a workshop on Hawaiian values, which led to the drafting of the
hotel's mission statement. The mission statement represents the employee's values embraced by the hotel: Aloha, Ho'okipa (hospitality of complete giving), kokua (spirit of generosity and self-sacrifice), lokahi (balance, collaboration and cooperation). These values guide the hotel management's decision making. While many, if not most properties, are managed by objectives, Kana'apali Beach Hotel manages by values.
A most memorable moment occurred in the afternoon following Rosa Say's instruction on "Sense of Place." This value had us looking at the source of abundance in the place you find yourself. Our assignment was to discuss our "sense of place" with one another. That afternoon, we were given an opportunity to choose a Hawaiian activity or craft, and a few of us chose to go out and paddle an outrigger. Since the canoe had been taken apart and stored ahead of Hurricane Lane, we began with instruction on "how to rig a canoe." It was apparent that our two watermen were not just showing us how to rig, they were showing us Hawaiian values such as ho'ohana (working with intent and purpose), kuleana (responsibility), po'okela (excellence) and so much more.
We then paddled out to Pu'u Keka'a, a point on the beach that tourists call "Black Rock." We stopped the canoe as our guide explained that the ancient Hawaiians believed that when a person died, their spirit went to this cliff to jump off and join their ancestors. Our guide had taken this on as his kuleana, the sharing of this sacred story, to people who were ready to receive this "sense of place." In that moment, all of us in the single canoe, being held up by this beautiful blue green water, kissed by the warmth of sun, embraced by the gentleness of the wind, anchored by the land... experienced the outpouring and receiving of the spirit in a truly aloha moment.
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The Rev. Daniel Leatherman, St. Timothy's, Aiea, O'ahu
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Eucharist and dinner at Holy Innocents (Photos by Moki Hino)
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There is a richness to be found in the gathering of clergy, in praying together, sharing in the fellowship, exchanging ideas and learning together. I was able to meet newer clergy as well as renew and strengthen friendships that I often only see at Diocesan Convention, but this year was different. When I returned to the Diocese in 2005 to work at ʻIolani School, I had been unable to attend because it conflicted with the start of the school year. This is unfortunate, and I hope that more can be done in the future to include clergy serving in our Episcopal Schools.
That said, I really enjoyed the topic and the setting this year. The Kaʻanapali Beach Resort was a wonderful and relaxing venue. Auntie Louise (Aloy) and the staff there took very good care of us. The Aloha spirit was truly at work and everyone greeted you with a warm and genuine "Aloha!"
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Rosa Say (Photo by Moki Hino)
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I would like to reflect on the topic and our speaker, Rosa Say and her book,
Managing with Aloha,
a work I am familiar with and have been reading in conjunction with my D.Min. studies. It is always a unique opportunity to meet with the author. Values such as Aloha, Mālama, Pono and Hoʻohana are among the 19 she identifies as being key to effective management of people and organizations. These Hawaiian values do not exist in a vacuum but are understood the way they are because of where we live. In our short time together, Rosa invited us to explore not only WHO we are and the values we hold dear, but WHERE we are -- that is, our sense of place. If we are willing to open ourselves to a wisdom already present, the ʻaina and the people of these islands have much to teach us. I am still "digesting" what Rosa had to say and although we might critique her context as being rooted squarely in the hospitality industry, living with a heart of aloha lies central to our lives in the faith.
"Nānā I ke kumu" means to "look to the source." For Say and for many in the Hawaiian community, that means looking to our kupuna, our elders, with their manaʻo and the wisdom of their years. But as a Church and for us as faithful witnesses of the gospel, this means looking to the source of our faith, namely Jesus Christ. We look deeply into the heart of God telling our moʻolelo our story of how God is at work in the world and of the hope that the risen Christ offers. Does the Church need clergy who are managers? Perhaps. Does it need faithful ministers? Absolutely. But every institution, including the Church needs to connect and reconnect with the values that lie at the heart of our faith.
Ka lā hiki ola is "the dawning of a new day" and it symbolizes not only a new chapter in my own ministry but also the optimism, hope, and promise of something new. I left Maui with such hope and a profound sense of gratitude for the ʻohana that we are. I am grateful for the shared laughter and wonderful conversation with the Revs. Jazzy Bostock and Diane Martinson of St. Peterʻs, Honolulu, and the Rev. Paul Lille (fellow outrigger and SUP paddler). I am equally grateful to have the chance to know my brothers and sisters who share in the varied ministries of our congregations and schools in Hawaiʻi and Guam and Saipan. ʻAʻohe hana nui ke alu ʻia -- No task is too big when done together by all.
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Kerith Harding, St. John's, Kula, Maui
I was delighted to participate in our recent retreat with Rosa Say of "Managing with Aloha." Says' illumination of a number of Hawaiian values was helpful as I reflected on them both for myself personally, and as they relate to the culture of my parish. Most interesting to me was our discussion on "sense of place." Mrs. Say put into words the sense I've had at various times in my life, whether at home or while traveling, that a place just "fits." It seems this sense is a universally human one, and I realize now how many stories I've heard from parishioners and visitors where "sense of place" explains why they are with us at St. John's. I am hoping to spend some sermon time on this idea, and will likely construct our annual meeting around it. Mahalo to Rosa Say for this and the many other gifts she shared with us
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The Rev. Mahi Beimes, St. Matthew, Waimanalo, O'ahu
 This year's Clergy Retreat was the third consecutive annual gathering which I have had the pleasure and privilege of attending in as many years as I have been ordained. I have enjoyed each of the three and have been especially fortunate to experience firsthand the distinct and special "sense of place", promise and purpose, which each of these three retreat sites had to offer: Camp Mokuleia in 2016, Kaua'i Marriott Hotel in 2017 and Ka'anapali Beach Hotel on Maui this year.
So the very notion of a "retreat", or withdrawing or pulling back from one's everyday tasks and duties, to a time and place with no evidence or reminders of one's kuleana (responsibility) and hoʻohana (lifework and duties) is by itself such a makana (gift) to clergy in our diocese.
This year's gathering on Maui included three days of "Managing with Aloha" training by author and kumu, Rosa Say. We discussed Hawaiian values and ethics such as alaka'i (leadership and initiative); ho'ohana (working with intent and purpose); kuleana (sense of responsibility); mālama (stewardship) and pono (rightness and balance). The principles Rosa shared have direct correlation to fundamental Christian ethics and are applicable to our daily life and work.
A special bonus activity for me this year was helping to rig, launch and paddle in the hotel's outrigger canoe. Oh what FUN it was to paddle in unison with the other clergy members, (Sandy Graham, Heather Hill, Dan Leatherman, Paul Lillie, Irene Tanabe) as well as the alaka'i, who called out the strokes and changes. I just turned 70 this year and it has taken me this long to paddle and ride in an outrigger canoe for the very first, but, hopefully, not the last, time! GOD is GREAT and GOD is GOOD! Mahalo nui loa, e Ke Akua!
(Photos contributed by the Revs. Moki Hino, Mahi Beimes, Irene Tanabe and Daniel Leatherman)
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Episcopal Asiamerica National Consultation in Hawai'i
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Hawai'i was the site of the Episcopal Asiamerica Ministries (EAM) National Consultation, which took place at the Ala Moana Hotel in Honolulu, from September 27-October 1, 2018. The National Consultation occurs every three years, and brings together seven ethnic convocations:
Chinese, Japanese, Korean, Filipino, Southeast Asian, South Asian, Pacific Islanders, and this year, its eighth and newest convocation, youth and young adults.
EAM is led by the Rev. Cn. Dr. Winfred Vergara, Missioner for Asiamerica Ministries, charged to "
enable, equip and empower ministries among Asian immigrants and Asian-Americans and help build bridges to Asia and beyond." The ministry was developed to assist dioceses start new Asian congregations, strengthen existing ones, and advocate for Asian empowerment at all levels of the church: seminarians, women, youth, clergy, and lay leaders.
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Above from left: The Rev. Irene Tanabe with Rev. Cn. Fred Vergara; Rev. Cn. Moki Hino poses with Gay Clark Jennings, President of the House of Deputies, and Presiding Bishop Michael Curry; Fane Lino and Rev. Merry Chan Ong; Rev. Kaleo Patterson serving as a panelist at the Creation plenary session (Photos from the EAM Facebook page)
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The Diocese of Hawai'i was in a unique position to take part in and bring awareness to our own members about this ministry where fittingly, the majority of Hawai'i's population (38.6%) identifies as Asian. This year's event involved many of our own clergy, lay members and churches, who took part in worship, served as speakers, sat on or moderated panel discussions, and hosted groups and activities. It was also a great opportunity for people within the Diocese to take part in an event that might otherwise be cost-prohibitive.
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Pictured above, Presiding Bishop Michael Curry takes a moment at the columbarium where the late Bishops Edmund Browning and Richard Chang are laid to rest; ready for the Opening Eucharist are Verger Roth Puahala, Acolyte Kamuela Puahala, Deacon Ha'aheo Guanson, Leilani Kaho'ana, Theone Vredenburg and standing in back, Rev. Keleawe Hee; at the altar, Dcn. Peter Wu, Bishop Allen Shin of the Diocese of New York, and the Rev. Cn. Moki Hino. (Photos from the Cathedral website)
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The Opening Eucharist took place at The Cathedral of St. Andrew. The pews were packed in anticipation of hearing Presiding Bishop Michael Curry, and he didn't disappoint, delivering a sermon full of energy, enthusiasm, humor and above all, powerful words on the love and way of Jesus.
In the Cathedral e-news, the Rev. Cn. Moki Hino spoke about
the Presiding Bishop's comments about the British royal wedding (where he was also the preacher) and how remarkable it was that two people in love could draw two billion people to their television sets. "Indeed, this speaks to the power of love in our lives," says Hino, "For me, the challenge is to embrace love and experience it in the midst of other distractions that may tempt me away from that notion-things like self-doubt, cynicism, defeatism, and the list goes on."
The Rev. Ray Woo was equally moved. "I feel inspired and motivated by Presiding Bishop Curry's sermon that the Way of Christ's Love is the Way of Life, for our mission and ministry to proclaim and share Christ's love in the Church and in the world." Woo
appreciated the friendship and fellowship as well as "the Opening and Closing liturgies, plenary sessions, workshops, the Cultural Night, and the friendly visitors from different countries and dioceses." On Sunday, September 30, EAM participants were hosted at different churches for Sunday liturgy and lunch. Below are the clergy and participants that came to St. Luke's to worship.
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Pictured above from left, the Rev. Ray Woo with the the Very Rev. Moses Yoo, Primate of the Anglican Church of Korea; the Right Rev. Peter Lee, Bishop of Seoul; the Right Rev. Allen Shin, Suffragan Bishop of New York; at center, celebrating the Eucharist; and at far right a group shot in front of St. Luke's. (Photos by Fran Kramer)
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The newest convocation of EAM, youth and young adults, was coordinated by Carolyn Morinishi, who has been a youth leader with EAM since 2011. Although her home church has been St. Mary's Episcopal in Los Angeles, CA, she and her husband now split their time between Kaua'i (where her mother has a home) and are actively involved in the Diocese of Hawai'i and church life at All Saints' in Kapa'a.
"The current EAM group was the largest joint group I've led," said Carolyn. "They were spirited and enthusiastic!" Their enthusiasm was so great that they have been offered funding to hold an EAM Youth Leadership camp in the summer of 2019, to help develop leaders for the next generation.
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Pictured above from left: The young group takes time to explore the island with a stop at the iconic Matsumoto Shave Ice stand. At center, they spent Sunday service at St. Mary's in Mo'ili'ili where Rev. Gregory Johnson delivered an inspiring talk. They also made toiletry bags to be distributed at the service center there. At far right, the group works hard at the Ka Papa Lo'i o Kanewai. (Photos from the EAM Youth Convocation Facebook page)
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Click
HERE
to read an article entitled Episcopal Asiamerica Ministries Looks to Raise Up New Leadership.
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Asiamerica Ministries National Consultation Underway in Honolulu
Story and photos by Lynette Wilson, Managing Editor, Episcopal News Service
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Pictured above from left, taking a selfie before the Opening Eucharist are Rev. Cn. Fred Vergara, the Rt. Rev. Allen Shin, Rev. Randy Albano and Rosa Galanto; center, Presiding Bishop Michael Curry delivers his sermon; Vergara addressing the packed Cathedral.
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The Asian diaspora isn't easily defined; "Asia" can mean anything from Chinese to South Korean to Filipino to Indian. Each ethnicity has its own rich cultural identity, with many having diverse dialects and cultures within that identity.
As evidenced by the opening Eucharist of the September 27-October 1 Episcopal Asiamerica Ministries National Consultation, many of those cultures and identities are present in the Episcopal and Anglican Churches.
"There are almost 300 people coming here from various Asian constituencies, not only in the United States, but we have representatives from Vancouver [British Columbia] who are inspired by the work of Episcopal Asiamerica Ministries," said the Rev. Winfred Vergara, the Episcopal Church's Asiamerica missioner and the consultation's co-dean. "We have formed an ACAM, Anglican Canadian Asian Ministries, and there's a representative from the Church of England and they want also to have a similar organization like we do in England. So, I'm really hopeful and excited about this.
"Our theme is 'Piko,' the Hawaiian word for 'navel' or 'belly button,' which represents our interconnectivity with one another - Christ, creation and community," said Vergara. In a literal sense, he said, piko describes the belief that "creation started from the center of the earth and worked its way in all directions."
Registration topped 267 participants representing Asians from the United States, Canada, England, South Korea and the Philippines. During opening Eucharist, the Prayers of the People were offered in nine languages - Chinese, Filipino, Japanese, Korean, Indian, Karen, Tongan, Hmong and English - a representation of the diverse ethnicities present.
Presiding Bishop Michael Curry preached to a packed crowd during the consultation's opening Eucharist held September 27, 2018, at the Cathedral of St. Andrew. The Rt. Rev. Allen K. Shin, bishop suffragan in the Diocese of New York, presided. The offering went to the Philippine Episcopal Church's response to aid those impacted by Typhoon Mangkhut, a massive
storm that brought torrential rain and 165 mph winds to the island of Luzon on Sept. 15, 2018, killing upwards of 100 people and displacing hundreds of thousands of people from their homes.
READ MORE for the full article and to view a video of Presiding Bishop Curry's sermon.
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Brothers in Christ: Peter & Sandy's Story
By Sybil Nishioka, Editor
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In 1991, Peter Pereira, could never have known that the choice he made back then would have life-saving consequences over 25 years later. Back then, he admits he was ambitious and worked hard, with money being a driving force. For 16 years, he buried himself in work, and everything else took a back seat including his family and church... but there was a gnawing feeling growing inside of him that something was lacking in his life. So in 1991, he made a life-changing decision to leave his lucrative job in the private sector and work for a non-profit, thinking that perhaps working for a Christian organization might help fill that void. That Christian organization was The Episcopal Diocese of Hawai'i, where Peter has served as its treasurer for the past 27 years!
Flash forward to the eve of Thanksgiving 2016: Peter receives a call from his doctor telling him he needs to go to the hospital right now! The doctor informs Peter that routine blood tests revealed that his kidneys were functioning at 14% and he was in stage 5 renal disease -- in other words, his kidneys were failing and death imminent without treatment or a transplant. Shocked and confused, he reluctantly left Thanksgiving preparations, thinking it had to be a mistake..after all, he felt fine!
It was no mistake. By the time Peter started dialysis a few months later, his kidneys were functioning at only 5%, and the fight for his life had begun. Dialysis was brutal. He chose a process that could be done in the privacy of his home, but it entailed an intense daily regimen that involved a stomach tube, a highly sterile environment, and devoting hours of each day to his treatment. Peter's wife was at his side and for "heavy lifting" since he was instructed not to lift anything more than 10 pounds, but the side effects and struggle during this time could only be described as a living hell.
"It was torture," said Peter during my phone interview with him. With dialysis cleaning out everything from his blood including important minerals and vitamins, he experienced excruciating cramping almost daily; there were episodes of itching throughout every square inch of his body "even in my eyes" and it was driving him crazy! Thoughts of suicide crept in, and life as he knew it was a miserable existence, even when supplements eventually helped ease the symptoms.
Yet during those darkest hours, Peter thought of Job from the Old Testament, whose suffering made his own, pale in comparison---and it gave him hope.
And the hope was real! Although there were over 500 people on the list for a kidney transplant in Hawai'i, 17 people stepped forward as potential donors for Peter. At the top of the list were his two brothers, and friends from work and church including four Episcopal clergy. Unfortunately, both of his brothers did not pass the preliminary testing, and as doctors went down the list, donors were being eliminated one by one. Peter's hopes were beginning to wane.
Meanwhile, the Rev. Cn. Alexander "Sandy" Graham, who had been called to serve as the Diocese's Canon for Congregational Life and Leadership just a few months before Peter learned about his failing kidneys, had himself signed up to be tested. As fate would have it,
exactly one year later, on the eve of Thanksgiving 2017, Peter received a call that would once again change his life. Sandy was a match! The transplant would take place towards the end of January 2018.
Not only was Sandy a match, but he donated what doctors described to Peter as a "super kidney!" During the surgery, Sandy's kidney immediately began functioning in all aspects, and vital tubes that are usually left in place for two weeks to a month, were removed in a day. When doctors told Peter how lucky he was, he responded that it was not luck, but the power of prayer.
A couple weeks later, "Super Sandy" was back in the office sans one kidney, going about his busy schedule. The only thing holding him back were instructions from the doctor not to lift anything over 10 pounds for about a month, and not to fly for two months, which meant visits to neighbor island churches and attending conferences were out. He even participated in the Hapalua half-marathon on April 8, that in retrospect, he admits was a mistake. Doctors told him that it could take 6 months to a year to be back at 100% energy, but he is "super" afterall!
And the pain? Aside from the anticipated aching and discomfort, he remembers telling the nurse that the most pain he experienced was when they ripped off the medical tape from his leg. "I'm a relatively hairy guy," joked Sandy.
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Sandy at left with Peter, in the breezeway of the Cathedral. (Contributed photo)
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Peter would be going through a much longer recuperation process, but there was no denying that he now had a workhorse of a kidney. He recently returned to work and is happy to be back in the office. Thanks to the small but mighty staff, and especially to Rae Costa, Danny Casey and Jane Tonokawa who took over the bulk of his work, things ran smoothly. His workload has been lessened, which Peter admits is a great outcome from this experience. He is filled with unending gratitude and love for all the support he received, including the wonderful staff at Queen's Hospital and most especially, the donors who came forward.
As far as our unsung hero, Sandy is an example of all that we as Christians strive to be: generous, self-sacrificing, humble, and filled with love for one another.
When asked what motivated him to do this, he responded, "I'm not sure - it just seems like the sort of thing we do. Jesus said if your neighbor has no shirt and you have two..."
Sandy's family echos that same spirit. His wife, the Rev. Heather Patton-Graham, wondered why he didn't bring up the subject (of being Peter's donor) earlier, and others in his immediate family were not surprised at all.
Peter has had a lot of time to reflect on his journey; the suffering and the selfless people who stepped forward to help him. He also sees how God used him as a way to help others. The potential donors who failed to pass were unaware of health issues that were identified only through the testing process, and are now receiving proper treatment.
We can never really know God's divine plans for us, and when Peter made that choice to apply to the Diocese of Hawai'i, he could have never known that a co-worker would save his life 27 years later. Says Peter, filled with a grateful heart, "We are forever brothers in Christ."
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If you would like to learn more about kidney disease and how to become a possible donor, visit the National Kidney Foundation of Hawai'i
HERE.
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Prison Ministry
Continuing Strong Support & Growth for Prison Ministry
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The Diocese of Hawai'i's Prison Ministry continues to grow and garner support not only from its churches, but from the the wider community as well. This is due in large part to the dedication and hard work of the Revs. Ha'aheo Guanson and Kaleo Patterson, and the many churches who have found value in this ministry.
Pictured above is Dr. Guanson with BacPacs and supplies at the new Peace Center at old Kuhio Park Terrace, now called Kuhio Towers One. She is the coordinator for the BacPac Project, supporting pa'ahao (inmates) being released from incarceration. Below BacPacs are blessed at St. John the Baptist before being sent off, and Rev. Ha'aheo Guanson at center was on hand at Epiphany to receive BacPacs from Lot Lau, Rev. Cn. Alexander Graham, Rev. Irene Tanabe and Bruce Hanohano. Mahalo to all the compassionate churches of the BacPac Project network. For more information, please contact Dr. Guanson at (808) 330-3771.
Rev. Kaleo Patterson reports on some great news about the Baibala Pule Project:
Thanks to the tremendous support from churches and individuals, we met our goal of 100 Baibala - Hawaiian English Bibles, purchased from Mutual Publishing. (Pictured at right) is the
most recent order of Baibala that will be used at the Waiawa, Halawa, and Saguaro (Arizona) Correctional facilities.
Last month we distributed almost 60 Baibala to the centers, and hope to distribute another 30 more by Christmas.
As a result of our most recent procurements, and anticipating continued purchases, Mutual Publishing has graciously provided a special discount of $20.25 per purchase or a 55% discount towards the Prison Project. In addition, this discount is available for local churches and individuals in the Prison Project network. Please let me know how we can assist you as a local church in purchasing Baibala for your own program use or personal study. Thank you again for supporting the Baibala Pule Project.
For more information on the Baibala Pule project and how to order Baibalas for your church,
e-mail Patterson.
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O'AHU PARISH NEWS
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St. Mark's: Power of the Sun
Story and photo from the St. Mark website
For the past two years our Rector and the St. Mark's Vestry, in partnership with the Episcopal Diocese of Hawai'i, have been working diligently to make our campus greener through solar energy. We are excited to have reached our goal of becoming better environmental stewards of God's creation. This summer, after extensive work on our Parish Hall and rectory roofs, our four buildings began using renewable energy due to the installation of photovoltaic systems. Many thanks are due to those who gave countless hours over the past two years to make this project possible.
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Good Sam Summer Outreach at Palolo Valley Recreation Center
Story and photos from the Good Samaritan newsletter
This summer, besides providing snacks once a week for the summer fun children, we started a once a week bingo game for various groups of children between ages 5 -10. Thank you to our volunteers (pictured above) Jan Motoshige, Myrtle Kaneshiro, Alice Chinen, Gavin Nishihira (our bingo caller), and not pictured, Jan's grandson Lennon Kohama. It was so fun to see how the children responded, all intent and concentrating on getting their bingo. None were restless or disruptive. All were quiet and well-behaved and their focus was something to behold. When their bingo was made, they were awarded a choice of two candies and then we were off to blackout bingo where winners were awarded a composition book.
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St. Stephen's Annual Back-to-School Sunday
St. Stephen's Episcopal Church in Wahiawa held their annual back-to-school Sunday with a role play in worship on the Feeding of the Five Thousand. Afterwards, they enjoyed a fishing booth and pizza. Three boxes of back-to-school Supplies were put together by church members Sandra and Jean, for distribution in the three Wahiawa Elementary Schools. (Photos contributed by Kaleo Patterson)
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Parish Spotlight
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The Spirit of Dorothy Day and Peter Maurin:
The Catholic Worker and Wallyhouse Open at
St. Elizabeth's
By Sybil Nishioka, Editor
Nestled in the heart of downtown Honolulu, where luxury condos meet poverty and homeless encampments head on in a clash of lifestyles, sits St. Elizabeth's Episcopal Church. The distinctive white building stands as a beacon to those struggling with life in the surrounding community.
Fr. David Gierlach has served as its Rector since 2009, and during this time, he has witnessed the ever-shifting population of immigrants, the disparity between wealth and poverty, the exploding number of homeless, and the unending battle to help those in need. But it hasn't stopped him and his incredible team of associates and dedicated congregants to tackle some of the toughest societal issues facing Hawai'i.
They organize marches to the State Capitol and are active in organizations to advocate affordable housing for all and medical care for immigrants; they feed, tutor and create a host of programs for inner-city youth; run a food pantry, do laundry and house homeless in their parking lot; and they shape their Sunday services to include the bold and beautiful voices of multicultural worship. The list goes on and on, and it's no wonder that this congregation is one of the most vibrant and diverse in the Diocese.
If that wasn't enough, Fr. David recently stretched their outstretched arms even more, by putting out a call in the Franciscan community for a possible
Catholic Worker earlier this year. What is the Catholic Worker?
The Catholic Worker is a movement founded in 1933, by Dorothy Day and Peter Maurin, involving a lifestyle of voluntary poverty and a commitment to nurturing "the poor in body, mind and spirit, non-violent resistance of oppression, and practicing radical acts of kindness." There are over 200 Catholic Worker "communities" throughout the world.
So it was in January of 2018, that David Catron and barbara bennett (intentional lower case), found their way to St. Elizabeth's. Both are members of the Third Order of the Society of St. Francis
. Over the next few months of prayerful discernment, a string of unexpected occurrences, and lots of elbow grease, their ministry began to take shape.
With the help of volunteers and generous hearts, the dilapidated rectory was transformed, and on July 8, 2018, Wallyhouse opened and was formally dedicated as a Catholic Worker home.
Their story and the creation of Wallyhouse is so divinely inspired and filled with God's grace, that you must read their first issue of the Wallyhouse News that explains it all. Yes, Wally is a real person (Wally Inglis, Chair of the Hawaii Coalition for Creative Housing) whose dream was to have a Catholic Worker in the islands, and David and barbara are now fulfilling this dream on the grounds of St. Elizabeth's. (Click
HERE
to read their inaugural news issue.) Pictured below from left is the revitalized rectory turned Wallyhouse; Wally Inglis stands second from left at the dedication ceremony, and at far right, Fr. David Gierlach blesses and dedicates the building.
Today, David and barbara provide laundry service for the houseless community (thanks to grants received from the Diocese to cover the cost of a new commercial washer and dryer), run the church food bank, distribute mail to those who use the church address, serve a free tasty lunch every Tuesday to a grateful (and growing) crowd, opened up Artfelt, an art studio for the houseless and at-risk youth, provide device charging, and of course, offer prayer and care for all who come to their doorstep. If this sounds like a lot accomplished in a few short months, it is... but it is just the beginning. There are already plans for a vegetable garden, private shower facilities, and a sewing workshop! One can only guess what will take shape next year!
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Patrons patiently wait for a delicious meal and the art studio is a creative retreat for all ages. (All photos contributed by the Catholic Worker and St. Elizabeth's)
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David and barbara welcome volunteers and donations are always needed, including items such as toiletries, diapers, snack food, art supplies, laundry soap (pods), towels, trash bags, new underwear, and simple can openers. You can reach David and barbara at (808) 535-5677, or by
e-mail
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Heritage Day: Celebrating 159 Years of the Queen's Hospital
On Friday, July 20, 2018, King Kamehameha IV and Queen Emma were remembered in celebration of Queen's Hospital Heritage Day. The day was filled with special events and activities, beginning with a solemn visit to Mount 'Ala. H
o'okupu
was offered to the King and Queen in thanksgiving for their service and especially for the establishment of the Queen's Hospital itself. The Rev. Cn. Moki Hino, the Rev. Keleawe Hee and Archdeacon Steve Costa were on hand to represent the Cathedral. (Photos from the Cathedral website and Steve Costa)
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Preparing for the Storms
This year's busier than usual storm and hurricane season kept residents of Hawai'i busy and on their toes, and that meant protecting life and property. When the threat of Hurricanes Olivia and Lane approached the islands, Cathedral members quickly mobilized, dismantling the aloha tent and protecting the stained glass windows, including Fr. Moki at far right. Thankfully no damage was reported.
(Photos from the Cathedral Facebook page)
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Celebrating Queen Lili'uokalani's Birthday
A special service to commemorate Queen Lili'uokalani's birthday on September 1, was celebrated at the Cathedral with members from Hawaiian Civic Clubs in attendance.
(Photos from the Cathedral website)
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Blessing of the Animals
Verger and acolyte made sure to get their pets blessed too, at the annual Blessing of the Animals Service at the Cathedral on Sunday, October 7.
(Photos from the Cathedral Facebook page)
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KAUA'I PARISH NEWS
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One 'Ohana Kicks Off on Kaua'i
On Saturday, August 11, 2018, members from Kaua'i Episcopal churches came together with other community volunteers to help build homes through the Habitat for Humanity program. Since then, the "One 'Ohana" team has returned each month to continue supporting Habitat. Pictured above is the group meeting up at St. John's Episcopal Church during the October 13 workday.
The community service effort is a result of the Diocese's 2017 Strategic Plan that was unveiled at the Annual Meeting of Convention last October. Shortly after, the Diocese formed three "design teams" to come up with ideas to implement the plan in three categories: Spiritual Formation, 'Ohana, and Communications.
Ron and Carolyn Morinishi (pictured above kneeling second and third from left), are on the 'Ohana design team, and were tasked with exploring ideas for Episcopal churches to come together, whether in fellowship, worship or, as in this case, service.
The Habitat for Humanity project was just one of the many ideas they had, and decided to test it out. Their "One 'Ohana" theme brought out members from Kapa'a and West side churches to help at a site located near St. John's Episcopal Church in Ele'ele, where 17 homes are being built. They will share their progress and plans for similar implementation projects at the Annual Meeting of Convention coming up soon. If you would like to learn more about this project,
e-mail Ron Morinishi
.
Pictured below from left, Ross Barker from St. Paul's in Kekaha flashes a shaka; from All Saints' in Kapa'a, Fay Hanaoka and Carolyn Morinishi tackle the foundation footings, Bill Brown touches up the window frame, and Jan Hashizume and Mabel Antonio work under the house.
(Photos by Ron Morinishi)
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Preserving History at Christ Memorial
In the ten months that the Rev. Gae Chalker has been the Vicar at Christ Memorial Episcopal Church in Kilauea, a second service has been added, two new music teams are in place, and she managed to get patrons of the food pantry to submit prayer requests, which, suffice to say, is somewhat of a miracle in itself. Although worship services and prayer are key elements for any church, she has also managed to raise awareness about the historical aspect of the church, and more specifically, the graveyard.
For those not familiar with Christ Memorial, this charming and picturesque lava-stone church is a popular north shore tourist stop. Against a lush tropical backdrop, the church is surrounded by graves, some recent, some ancient. On their
website, it says that t
he graveyard dates back to the earliest days of the original Hawaiian Congregational Church with some graves over 100 years old. "Unfortunately, many graves are unmarked and the number of people buried here will probably remain a secret known only to God."
In July, t
he headstones were power washed and sites cleaned up, some revealing wording that hasn't been visible in years. David Akana, the Bishop's Warden, discovered one such headstone nearly entombed in the trunk of the church's landmark Poinciana tree! A
program to foster the untended graves was started, and within a few weeks, all were "adopted." Fostering involves cleaning, weeding and on occasion, bringing fresh flowers to decorate.
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Above from left, Jack Gushiken whose family has lived in Kilauea for generations, power washes the headstones; Pastor Gae and Maggie Lea stand pleased with the outcome on one of the older headstones that could barely be read before cleaning; headstones formed of lava rock were common back in the day. (Photos by S. Nishioka)
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This fall, the church's Historic Preservation Committee headed by Maggie Lea, has initiated a three-phase restoration project of all of the church buildings and its burial grounds, including the construction of a new columbarium. Lea, a psychologist who moved to Kaua'i in 2001 with her husband, became interested in doing the genealogy of the family members who had the church's beautiful stained glass windows dedicated to them. In the process, a deeper interest formed regarding the history of the church and the graves, and she now serves on the Bishop's Committee devoted to historic preservation. With the church's rich history begging to be told,
Maggie hopes to train docents to give tours to visitors who come to pray and meditate in this very special place, and hopefully take a bit of Christ Memorial and Kaua'i back home with them.
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MAUI PARISH NEWS
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Enduring Nature's Wrath at Holy Innocents
As if floods, volcanic eruptions and hurricanes weren't enough of a test for our beloved islands, unexpected brush fires mixed in the midst of it all added a heightened level of despair and anxiety during a wild season of nature's wrath. While Maui was bracing for Hurricane Lane, three separate brush fires broke out within a ten-hour period. Fueled by the wind, the fires spread rapidly, destroying homes and testing the grit of first responders. Over 2,000 acres were burned, and the largest of the fires, located in Lahaina, forced evacuations near Holy Innocents Episcopal Church.
On the Holy Innocents Facebook page, the Rev. Amy Crowe posted, "
The mountain in front of Holy I is on fire. Folks are being evacuated immediately. We are opening church doors now!! Pray for all and rain!!"
Despite the wind, rain, soot and loss of power, Sunday services were held the next morning, and Rev. Amy was feeling grateful that things weren't worse. The photos above are from the Holy Innocents Facebook page showing the fire and wind damage from Hurricane Lane that followed hours later. Amy's son is shown holding one of the shingles blown off from the church roof.
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Outreach Gold: Weightlifting at Good Shepherd
Back in 2003, a weightlifting program was established to reach out to at-risk youth in the greater Wailuku area of Maui. Youth trained in the St. Mark Weightlifting Hall at Good Shepherd Episcopal Church which serves as the home of the Queen Emma Athletic Club. Former Olympic and champion weightlifters, including church member Keku Akana, have served as mentors and coaches through the years, and the program has grown and flourished. Dedicated young lifters compete in meets around the state and mainland with impressive results. The club has received numerous awards, and t
he Episcopal Church has designated Good Shepherd as a Jubilee Ministry, primarily as a result of the Queen Emma Athletic Club.
This past summer, Good Shepherd added a new outdoor weightlifting platform (pictured above) and their first meet was held there on Saturday, July 7, 2018.
Lawrence Kauhaahaa now serves as the head coach of the Queen Emma Athletic Club where they continue to inspire the next generation. (
Photos by Joey Kauhaahaa)
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West Maui Clothing Swap a Hit!
Holy Innocent's Episcopal Church in Lahaina has uncovered a need in the community that has resulted in a new monthly event. Every second Saturday of the month, the West Maui Clothing Swap takes place at the Holy Innocent's Parish Hall from 9:00 AM-11:00 AM. All are invited to bring clothing to swap, but books, toys and baby equipment are also accepted. No money is exchanged. On their flyer, it states "Bring what you can share. Take what you can use!" Items left after the swap are donated to local charities.
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THE BIG ISLAND OF HAWAI'I PARISH NEWS
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Resilience and Hope: Hale Iki Village
In May, when the volcanic eruptions forever changed the landscape and lives of hundreds on the Big Island of Hawai'i, Rev. Katlin McAllister and the congregation of Holy Apostles in Hilo immediately went to work to assist those affected. They helped serve meals, took up collections and donated essential supplies, and continue to do so, especially with the closing of shelters.
As the closest Episcopal church to ground zero, sister churches stepped in to support their efforts, taking up collections and making deliveries to affected areas.. With so many homes lost, hundreds have been displaced. Holy Apostles partnered with Connect Point Church to help build Hale Iki Village, a transitional housing site for lava flow displaced people. 11 micro-units have been built on land owned by Connect Point, and is the second such development for persons displaced by the lava. Several other sites are being built.
Through generous donations from near and far and throughout the church, Holy Apostles granted $18,000 toward Hale Iki and an additional $10,000 from their Kanikapila fundraiser (pictured above right) that was held on August 26. (To view a video of the Kanikapila fundraiser on YouTube, click HERE.)
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St. Jude's Healing Prayer Blankets
(The following story and photos are from the St. Jude's newsletter.)
St. Jude's healing blankets have become treasured gifts for many. Blankets are hand made by the women of St. Jude's, who sit together around a table, tying the strands together and praying for the recipient. The blankets have been shipped around the world, to people in crisis. We have been honored to learn that our blankets are often passed on to others, by the original recipient, to continue the prayers for healing and comfort.
Recently, St. Jude member Marvelle Rau shared a story in the church newsletter about her own experience when she had triple bypass heart surgery on O'ahu. Upon her return home, she was presented with her very own blanket that gave her great comfort. "My recovery has been incredible, and I thank St. Jude's for their love and concern," shared Marvelle, "The power of prayer is healing." But the story doesn't end there. When she learned that the Goddaughter of a friend back on the mainland was attacked by a dog, inflicting severe injuries, she knew this little girl was supposed to get her blanket. The young girls was thrilled with her blanket and has since recovered from her injuries.
Pictured above, the women of St. Jude's work on a blanket after Bible Study, and at right, the young girl that received Marvelle's blanket.
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THE EPISCOPAL CHURCH & BEYOND
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Episcopalians Rally Around the "Way of Love" Framework for Living into Jesus Movement
[Episcopal News Service] Presiding Bishop Michael Curry spent much of his first three years as head of the Episcopal Church talking about Episcopalians being part of the Jesus movement. He has called them to follow Jesus into loving, liberating and life-giving communion with God, with God's creation and with each other.
"Pretty early on, people started saying, 'How do we do that?'" said the Rev. Stephanie Spellers, the presiding bishop's canon for evangelism, reconciliation and creation care. "So, the presiding bishop really took that to heart."
Curry provided an answer last month by launching a "rule of life" framework dubbed "The Way of Love," featuring seven practices for Jesus-centered living. The churchwide response to the initiative so far has been overwhelmingly positive, Spellers said, and efforts to promote The Way of Love have just begun.
"You want to be people of the Jesus movement? You want to follow Jesus and to live his way? Well, his way is the way of love," Spellers said. "And if we as a whole church commit to living a set of spiritual practices with conviction and in community, we will more and more live as Jesus' people in this world."
Worshippers were given Way of Love wallet cards at the July 5 opening Eucharist of the 79th General Convention in Austin, Texas, as seen in this photo taken from an Episcopal Church video of the service.
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Good Friday Offering Raises Record Total to Support Middle East Ministries
Story by David Paulsen/Photo by Mary Frances Schjonberg, Episcopal News Service
[Episcopal News Service] The Episcopal Church's
Good Friday Offering, an annual collection to support ministries in the Middle East, hit a fundraising milestone in 2017, topping $400,000 for the first time.
The offering has been a "remarkable success" in recent years, said the Rev. Robert Edmunds, the church's Middle East partnership officer. More than 1,400 congregations, including those in overseas dioceses of the Episcopal Church, participated on Good Friday 2017. Contributions totaled $414,310 according to figures finalized recently after a church audit.
The Good Friday Offering supports a variety of programs in the
Anglican Province of Jerusalem and the Middle East, such as conferences and summer camps for children in the Diocese of Jerusalem, women's empowerment programs, an eye clinic and other medical ministries.
"This extraordinary outpouring of generosity allows for essential funding of humanitarian aid in hospitals like the Al Ahli Arab Hospital in Gaza and the Ras Morbat Eye Clinic in Yemen, in addition to other medical ministries, schools and programs for women and youth," Edmunds said. "The Good Friday Offering continues a strong tradition of prayer, advocacy and meaningful financial support for valuable ministry among our sisters and brothers throughout the Middle East."
The Good Friday Offering, an initiative of the presiding bishop's office, dates to 1922, when it was created in the aftermath of World War I in an attempt to foster relationships with Christians in the Middle East by supporting relief work and ecumenical partnerships. Each year, the Episcopal Church provides the proceeds to dioceses in the region to distribute to their locally led ministries.
The amount collected by all Episcopal congregations on Good Friday had fallen to $266,000 in 2013, but it topped $350,000 in each of the three following years before setting a record in 2017.
"Through the years many Episcopalians have found the Good Friday Offering to be an effective way to express their support for the ministries of the four dioceses of the Province of Jerusalem and the Middle East," the Episcopal Church says
in an online summary.
Presiding Bishop Michael Curry embarked on a
pilgrimage to the Holy Landleading up to Good Friday 2018. Among the stops on Curry's Holy Week trip was the Al Ahli Arab Hospital, whose medical ministry in Gaza City receives money from the Good Friday Offering.
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Beacons of Hope...
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 'Purple' Parish in Minnesota Builds Paths to Compassionate Political Dialogue
[Episcopal News Service - Shorewood, Minnesota] Within this politically "purple" state, the Rev. Devon Anderson describes her congregation at
Trinity Episcopal Church as a "purple parish," neither red nor blue but with parishioners who bring viewpoints that fall all along the political spectrum.
Purple isn't an easy color for a parish, especially in these increasingly partisan times. Parishioners at the church in Excelsior, Minnesota, where Anderson is rector, had long felt uncomfortable sharing their political views, and some preferred avoiding such topics altogether at church. READ MORE
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 Aftermath of Hurricane Florence Brings Out 'Best of the Human Spirit' in Coastal North Carolina
Episcopal News Service] What does hurricane recovery look like to the Rev. Ron Abrams? Hurricane Florence, which
devastated parts of the Carolinas two weeks ago, downed a tree but did little other damage to the church grounds and facilities of
St. James Parish in Wilmington, North Carolina, where he is rector.
Abrams downplayed the damage at St. James. For him, the image of hurricane recovery is one of goodwill and an eagerness to help others, some of whom have lost nearly everything. READ MORE
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Therapy Dogs are Soothing Ambassadors
[Episcopal News Service]
Paxton may not understand the full significance of his calling, but the 10-year-old Westie is one of
All Saints Episcopal Church's
most dedicated ministers serving as Jesus' paws in the world.
As a therapy dog dispatched by
Perfect Paws Pet Ministry
at All Saints in Danvers, Massachusetts, Paxton and his human, Fran Weil, have brought the soothing presence of a canine companion to students of all ages, nursing home residents, hospital patients and recovering addicts in drug rehabilitation centers. Weil is always amazed by the sense of calm that can be conveyed from simply patting her dog's head. READ MORE
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Sybil Nishioka, Editor & Communications Coordinator
The electronic Hawaiian Church Chronicle is the official news publication of the Episcopal Diocese of Hawai'i. All policy, editorial and administrative decisions are under the direction of the editor in consultation with the Bishop's Office. The Chronicle welcomes suggestions, story ideas, comments and opinions from its readers. Send articles, letters, news and photographs (electronic files preferred) to:
News
, Office of the Bishop, 229 Queen Emma Square, Honolulu, HI 96813
(808) 536-7776
The Chronicle does not assume responsibility for the return of photographs or manuscripts.
The deadline for submissions in the next December issue is Monday, November 26, 2018.
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