PAHALA

Holy Rosary Parish

The religious education program’s Holy Week activity, March 20, in the parish hall helped the children understand the full meaning of Jesus’ last days on earth. They learned ways to serve others, making Easter cards and Easter goody bags filled with candies, toiletries and stationary for the 18 long-term care patients at Kau Hospital. The students were Dillin Ballo, Irvin Martin, Lehre Vidal, Joyce Ibasan, Eunice Longakit, Kristy Kuanono, Jenna Gascon, Deisha Gascon, Shaylin Navarro, Denisha Navarro, Salina Covarrubio, Krystalyn Gascon, Julia Espaniola and Petronilo Espaniola. (Reported by Jeanette Castillo)

PAPAIKOU

Immaculate Heart of Mary Parish

In early January, Bishop Larry Silva visited Hamakua’s Catholic churches. He celebrated all the Masses here and at Good Shepherd Mission and St. Anthony Church in Papaaloa. After the 10 a.m. Mass at our parish, the activities committee hosted a reception for the bishop in the parish hall, giving parishioners an opportunity to get better acquainted with him and to enjoy fellowship and food. Pictured are (future priests?), in the front from left, Joey Smith and Artemio Sensano; in the middle from left, Cody Pinzon and Deacon Leroy Andrews; and in the back, from left, Austin Takemoto and Bishop Silva. (Reported by Pat Phillips) On the weekend of March 8, our youth attended the Big Island Youth Day at St. Benedict Church in South Kona. They experienced a 2.5 mile walk to the beach carrying all that they brought with them. They also experienced conditions likened to a refugee camp. Their lunch was “bombed by air raids,” dinner wasn’t served until 7:30 p.m., and the next morning’s breakfast was a measly bowl of oatmeal. Despite all the hardships, these youths had high spirits and persevered. Attending were Sarath Baylor, Micharl Cabel, Micah Caplener, Haneen Ellayan, Tasha Haimoto-Leite, Jayson Justo, Kesha Kubo, Orion Paye, Melissa Stenger, skyler Tehero, Ariel Terpstra, Keeley Terpstra and Calle Villanueva. They were chaperoned by Donna Johnson and Pam Lyman. (Reported by Victorino A. Justo)

HAWI

Sacred Heart Parish

Those who see light, can walk in the dark ... Those who see love can see God ... After much preparation for Holy Week by the different ministries — from Palm Sunday to Holy Thursday and Good Friday — Easter Vigil was a most holy night and the most solemn memorial recalling Christ’s saving death and glorious resurrection. After the blessing of the fire and the lighting of the Easter Candle, all the candles were lit throughout the church. We stood with our lit candles as longtime choir member Eugene Amar sang the Easter Proclamation. We welcomed Cameron Naihe-Tabiolo who was baptized and confirmed on this night. An aloha soup celebration followed the Easter Vigil Mass. At dawn, “Son-rise” services were held at Mahukona Beach Park, followed by two Easter Masses at our parish. (Reported by Lee Rivera)

PAHOA

Sacred Heart Parish

The Stations of the Cross is a devotion commemorating the passion and death of Christ through a series of 14 meditations or stations. Depictions of these stations are mounted on the walls of most churches below small crosses. At our parish, not only do we have the Stations inside our church, we also have a second Stations outside on our wonderful meditation path. The pathway was conceived in 2001 at pastor Father Etuale Etuale’s suggestion and, with the help of George Salazar and other parishioners, became a reality. We were fortunate to have land for a Virtual Way of the Cross. Each station is sponsored by parishioners, who maintain its beauty year round, but the main caretakers are George and Lillian Salazar. The path way is approximately six-tenths of a mile. The construction was intended so people could connect to God who understands their hurt and pain. Individuals who walk or drive through the Virtual Way of the Cross will experience in prayer the full indulgence of the Passion and death of Christ. On our Virtual Stations, you will be led to the Garden of Gethsemane, then one station at a time provides opportunities for contemplation and prayer. As you go along the path, you will also see a beautiful scaled down model of our wonderful church. A truly wonderful experience! (Reported by Steve Torres)

HILO

St. Joseph Parish

Here is a lovely photo of our RCIA class, their sponsors, and Father Thomas Purayidathil from the Easter Vigil. The catechumens and candidates are from the Hilo Roman Catholic Community. (Reported by Joyce Saenz)

KALAHEO

Holy Cross Parish

The youth of the Confirmation and youth ministry collected $800 for Souper Bowl Sunday and gave it to Catholic Charities of Kauai. Mahalo to our youth and our generous parishioners! … The new officers for the Kauai Council of Filipino Catholic Clubs were installed here on Jan. 20 — president Nellie Capino, vice president Asun Valvieja, secretary Della Silva, and treasurer Anabel Portugal. Committee chairpersons were also installed. Congratulations to all. … Sister Elizabeth Anne DiPippo, SU, and Julia Masseo led a Lenten workshop on the “Power of Forgiveness” on Feb.14 to parishioners from Holy Cross and Sacred Heart, Eleele, churches. The event was a great reminder and preparation for Lent. … Congratulations to Steven Tavares on his retirement as the parish maintenance and grounds person, and to Leonard Medeiros, his replacement. Mahalo to both for their gifts and talents on keeping the church grounds in marvelous shape! … Seven new eucharistic ministers were commissioned on Feb. 3. Congratulations to Serena Baker, Aileen Brun, Laverne Corpuz, Debra Soto, Marcie Medeiros, Diana Medeiros and Bernard Wong. Thank you all for responding in the service of our Lord. … The Holy Cross Church Centennial Celebration Committee, chaired by Ernest Barreira, is looking for the following items: photos of past events at Holy Cross Church and School, names and addresses of past priests, other clergy, nuns, principals and lay teachers. If you can help, please call the church office, 808-332-8011. … Year 1 and 2 Confirmation candidates from Holy Cross/Sacred Heart, St. Raphael and Immaculate Conception parishes, had their Confirmation retreat in the parish hall, Feb. 22-24, led by the Basic Christian Community members. The adult leaders were Father Gary Secor, Sister Mary Jo and Mason and Teo Matsuda. The candidates heard inspirational talks and spiritual lessons, participated in activities and sang music shared by a wonderful group of speakers and musicians. Thank you to the BCC retreat team, the Confirmation teams, parents and volunteers who helped to make the retreat a special and successful one. (Reported by Judy Cabanting)

KAHULUI

Christ the King Parish

On Holy Thursday, everyone experienced the Lord’s Supper with 12 apostles chosen by profession and dressed in occupational attire. They were Geofrey Altura (construction), Dione Cabias (nurse), Elpidio Pastor (security guard), Paulette Davis (school teacher), Alex Pasalo (Army National Guard), Don Guzman (lawyer), Gabriel Tongson (9th grade student), Jade Boren (6th grade student), Ben Acoba (prosecutor attorney), Marilena Valdez (maid), Donnie Cortez (executive chef), Laureen Seabury (secretary). In the symbolic act of the washing of the feet, we celebrated the self giving, love and service we share with Christ. After the Mass, the parishioners processed from the church to the parish hall for the vigil. On Good Friday morning, the Stations of the Cross led by Al and Bobby Sensano was re-enacted around the outside perimeter of the church. It was an emotional journey for all present. At the 3 p.m. and 6 p.m. Communion services, parishioners placed nails on a styrofoam cross. (The nails were passed out on Ash Wednesday to represent all our sins, with a small attached note that said, “Repent and Be Saved.”) Pictured is Simon (Deacon Ken) helping Jesus (Everett) carry his cross, while Mary (Lucy) embraces him. (Reported by: Carol Ursua and Jasmine Higa)

KULA

Kula Catholic Community

A big mahalo to our generous volunteers who work tirelessly to maintain our churches, halls and classroom buildings. They have most recently upgraded and maintained the Holy Ghost sidewalks, built new steps to the sacristy, painted the steps to the cemetery and much, much more! Their time and efforts also go unnoticed at Our Lady Queen of Angels and St. James Churches as well. Pictured are Arthur DePonte, Mark Andrews, John Otto, Lawrence Shim and Gordon Texeira. Not pictured is Gerry Tavares. We appreciate and honor these fine gentlemen for their many years of kind contributions of talent, skill and time. (Reported by Marie Biga)

LAHAINA

Maria Lanakila Parish

One catechumen and three candidates completed their sacraments of initiation here during the Great Vigil of Easter. Pictured, from left, are former candidate Marlene (Catherine) Brown; former catechumen Tory (Anthony) Brown; pastor Father Gary (Patrick) Colton; former candidates Cathy (Mary) Nava and May Karen (Matthew) Pascua. (Reported by Jim and Margy O’Brien)

KAPAA

St. Catherine Parish

Parishioners of our three-church parish will gather on April 11 to bid a fond aloha to our beloved pastor, Father Edgar Villanueva. Father Edgar has been with our parish since August of 2005 and has made life-long friends with many of our faith-family. An aloha potluck dinner will begin at 6:30 p.m. in Coyle Hall. There will be plenty of food, music and entertainment. All parishioners are invited to give Father Edgar a big send off. Pictured are Father Edgar, right, taken with Father Raul Dael of Rome during a break from our parish Lenten Mission this past February. Father Edgar and Father Raul were fellow seminarians in the Philippines and were reunited at our parish. (Reported by Carmen Nakasone)

WAILUKU

St. Anthony of Padua Parish

Boy Scout Troup 49, under the sponsorship of the parish, is preparing to challenge other Maui scouts in a camp-out, April 18-19, in Giggles Park in Haiku. Nearly 22 scouts, under scout master Fred Ventura and assistants Mark Higa, Ken Borges, Rudy Reyes, Ken Ferreira and Ted Leong, are sharpening their skills in various events such as fire building, knot tying and first aid. Also assisting is former scout leader Michael Williams who is serving as committee chairman. … There is also an active Cub Scout Troop for grades 1-6 led by Patrick Wong and Joe Gage. Interested persons are invited to call either leader or the church for further information. … On March 28, about 150 parishioners celebrated the birthday of pastor Father Roland Bunda at an evening Mass followed by a potluck. Honored with the pastor was Police Chief Tom Phillips and others with March birthdays. The lively entertainment was provided by the Filipino singers from Christ the King Church in Kahului. (Reported by Miriam Kahalekai)

MAKAWAO

St. Joseph Parish

The parish and school “50 cents per item” Rummage Sale is Saturday, April 5, 7 a.m. to noon in the gym. Come one, come all! (Reported by Donna Pico)

TOPSIDE

Molokai Catholic Community

The community celebrated the Paschal Triduum with its usual élan. Blessed with beautiful weather and the commendable performance of all its liturgical ministers, the capacity crowds, including a noticeable number of visitors, rejoiced in the celebration of Holy Thursday, Good Friday, Easter Vigil and Easter Sunday at Mitchell Pauole Center. Welcomed to our faith community were Jeffrey and Sydney Adams, children of Lloyd and Amanda Adams, who received communion for the first time and Amy Estes who was confirmed by Father Clyde Guerreiro. The sunrise Mass at Our Lady of Seven Sorrows was the site for the rite of continuing conversion for the confirmation candidates Dohna Bicoy, Julie Ann Bicoy, Desirae Cabalar, April Prios and Christina Rabino. Continuing its custom, Our Lady of Seven Sorrows community enjoyed its potluck breakfast and egg hunt. What a blessed and joyful time for us! (Reported by Jersula Manaba and Cecily Kikukawa)

KULIOUOU

Holy Trinity Parish

The children of our parish school, under the direction of famed Hawaii artist Peggy Chun, have created a master piece that has changed lives forever! The miracle of their painted squares (all 50,000!) have added up to a painting of Father Damien, hailed by the state legislature and soon will be presented to Pope Benedict in the Vatican. The painting will go on tour locally before its final journey to Rome. The children have learned lessons that will inspire them to lead lives of service. (From the parish bulletin)

HONOLULU

Cathedral of Our Lady of Peace

The cathedral had a very busy Easter. At the Great Easter Vigil, Bishop Larry Silva baptized eight people. On Easter Sunday, Father Pascual completed the Initiation of one candidate. On Divine Mercy Sunday, Bishop Larry celebrated the 9 a.m. liturgy with the community and at this liturgy completed Initiation for 43 candidates in our Confirmation/First Eucharist process. These young people will now be trained as acolytes, lectors, hospitality ministers and choir members. This is the 15th year completing this process in our community. (Reported by Ann Hannan)

ALA MOANA

Sts. Peter and Paul Parish

Our second blood pressure screening session went well and we are pleased to see that some of you are taking advantage of this service. We will be doing this again on the second Sunday in April. Then we will evaluate the program to see if any changes are needed. (From the parish bulletin)

WAIALUA

Our Lady of Sorrows Parish

As part of its Lenten observance, our parish collected donations of more than 350 pounds of personal care items to make Easter baskets for the homeless. In the photo, parish administrator Father Edgar Brillantes and project coordinator Jack Kampfer hold some of the baskets. These items not only have practical use, but will also help stem the epidemic of Hepatitis B and C sometimes spread through the sharing of personal items. The donations are being distributed to the homeless in the Wahiawa area and elsewhere on Oahu. (Reported by Jack Kampfer)

PEARL CITY

Our Lady of Good Counsel Parish

“Rejoice and Be Glad!” “He Is Risen!” These proclamations head the Easter banners that are hanging in the church during this holy season. Believing in the redemptive and forgiving powers of our Lord, parishioners remembered and honored their living and deceased family members and friends by writing their names on the banners. Loving messages and intentions were scripted beside the names. This served as a venue to thank the Lord for the many blessings he pours on all his faithful. (Reported by Elaine Yamashita)

EWA BEACH

Our Lady of Perpetual Help Parish

The combined efforts of Young Adults and Life Teen re-enacted the Stations of the Cross on Good Friday at 3 p.m. An approximate 300 parishioners sat in a darkened church and watched the spotlight on Jesus, played by Justin Sniffen, as he carried the cross around the church to the sanctuary which served as the crucifixion site. Using Center for Learning’s Station of the Cross, Alex Song and Marites Barangan read meditations and reflections after each station. The youth choir led by Elise Carlos and May Hilario led the parishioners in singing “Jesus, Remember Me” as the cast moved from one station to the next. An all too-real sound effects of whipping and nailing of Jesus, combined with the loud and mean taunts from the Roman soldier played by Christian Legaspi, drew teary eyes and sniffles. Pictured here are the crew and cast following their performance. (Reported by Julia Torres)

KAIMUKI

St. Patrick Parish

At the Friday Lenten Stations of the Cross, St. Patrick School 8th graders dramatically portrayed the last hours of Jesus’ life through a creative mime interpretation. Readers, Jane Yang and JB Clarke Velasco, narrated the story as the remaining students reenacted each station. White makeup, black costumes and special lighting, sound and music added new dimensions to this powerful depiction of Jesus’ suffering and death. Principal characters were portrayed by Zachary Carias (Jesus), Jarred Yamada (Pontius Pilate), Derek Thipphavong and Bret Kanoa (soldiers), Yede Hubbard (Mary), Alex Pacheco (Simon), Shannon Kim (Veronica) and Amy Lau, Tiffany Li, Priscilla Ong (women of Jerusalem). Singers included Kulani Boyne and Karima Torres who were accompanied on the piano by Priscilla Ong. The 8th graders spent many weeks in preparation under the direction and guidance of homeroom teachers, Mrs. Kendra Masunaga and Mr. Paul Stone. The presentation left a startling and overwhelming impression on all in attendance. (Reported by the office staff)

PAUOA VALLEY

Blessed Sacrament Parish

Parishioners gathered outdoors at “Our Lady of the Valley” shrine for the blessing of the palm branches at the 5 p.m. Saturday Mass by Father Khanh Pham Nguyen assisted by Deacon Ron Choo, altar servers Jessica Cardenas, Bless Carino, Micah Lungay, Matthew Ornellas and Noah Piper, and ushers Michael Ceasar, Ken Oshiro and Richard Young. The crowd then processed into the church with their palms and Father Khanh celebrated Mass. After the Mass, the religious education children gathered in the parish hall to hear a recap of the reading of the Lord’s Passion specially done for them by lector, choir member, church cleaner and collection counter Robert Lum. Mr. Lum placed a dozen plastic eggs before the children. Noah Piper opened up the eggs one by one as Mr. Lum retold the Passion story. Each egg contained a miniature visual aid to illustrated the story — a donkey, praying hands, a die, a nail, a spear, a cloth, a cord, a crown of thorns, a cross, a chalice, a rock and lastly, an egg with nothing in it to signify the empty tomb and Jesus’ resurrection. Thank you, Mr. Lum, for the visual aids in your story telling. … Prayers for our catechist Demetria Kuapahi who will be at Pope Benedict XVI’s Mass Celebration in Washington, D.C. in mid-April. Thanks be to our Lord, Jesus Christ. Alleluia. He is Risen! (Reported by Liz Lum)

KALIHI

St. John the Baptist Parish

As part of the faith formation program in our parish, members of the Neo Catechumenal Way are sharing their experiences in discovering the forgiving love of Jesus. If you are faced with marital or financial programs, have generation gap problems, or have doubts about your faith, you are encouraged to come and listen to this “Invitation to Joy.” Sessions are Monday and Thursday evenings at 7 p.m. in the Science Room and are open to everyone over 14. (Reported by Velma Agustin)

AIEA

St. Elizabeth Parish

Great things happen in coming to know Christ … Kelly Ann Hall, right, mother of Tianna Hall, left, went through the RCIA process to complete her Sacraments of Initiation and her daughter journeyed through RCIC as well and was baptized at the Easter Vigil on March 22. Kelly Ann has now committed to lead a new ministry in the parish called Maile Land Ministry to coordinate food and clothing drives each year to assist families in transition in Maile Land. A few months ago, Kelly expressed her joy at coming back to the faith: “My children are my greatest accomplishment and my source of never ending joy. I’ve been very fortunate to meet so many nice people at St. Elizabeth School and Church. A few months ago, a friend invited me to attend a church service and I’m forever grateful for the outreach that brought me back to my roots in the Catholic faith.” And the journey continues … (Reported by Linda Cacpal)

WAIALUA

St. Michael Parish

Please pray for our deployed military personnel: Christopher Bolwell, Derrick Branson, Robert Lowers, Eric Powell, Troy Sabanal, Dominic Amantiad, Aric Andrade, Christopher Calio, Tyson Pactol. Please continue your prayers for all our military and their families and help us be current in our listing by letting us know when they return. (From the parish bulletin)

KANEOHE

St. Ann Parish

On Saturday, March 22, at the celebration of the Easter Vigil Liturgy, these new church members received Sacraments of Initiation into the Catholic Church: Deanne Nihipali-Silva, Katherine Leary, Malia Wong Leong, Linda Kato and Joe Ledezma. Various facets of worship came together to create a peaceful, warm and meaningful service for all on this most important liturgy of the entire church year. The Easter choir, led by Noel Jaderstrom and Jim Hoban, tremendously enriched the liturgy. Father Herman Gomes’ homily focused on God’s transforming love and how we need to be child-like in our faith, hope and trust in God. (Reported by Patricia Pimental)

ENCHANTED LAKE

St. John Vianney Parish

Youth Day 2008 — “Called to Christ,” April 12, 9 a.m.-3 p.m., is calling all windward vicariate teens grades 9-12!! Come together in fun, fellowship, faith-sharing and worship! Facilitated by InHim Ministries! The keynote speaker and Mass celebrant is auxiliary Bishop Joseph W. Estabrook of the Archdiocese for the Military Services. There will be break-out sessions on discipleship and vocations and opportunities to mix and mingle! Lunch will be served. Register with your parish youth minister! (From the parish bulletin)

HILO

St. Joseph Elementary School

Students in Mr. Randy Skaggs elementary music class formed a St. Patrick’s Day “Washboard” Band to serenade offices and classrooms throughout the school with their recorders. Here they are performing for Mr. Leroy Andrews and Mrs. Aileen Mattos in the high school office are. (Reported by Rowena Austria)

HILO

St. Joseph Jr./Sr. High School

Career Day for grades 7-10 featured veterinarian and SJHS 1977 graduate Dr. Boyd Castro, showing 7th graders the procedure and tools used to surgically insert into an animal’s broken leg. Other guest speakers included Dr. Kevin Hopkins, aquaculture professor at UH Hilo; Emmerson Lantero, attorney with Hawaii County Prosecuting Attorney’s office; Dr. Lynda Dolan, physician; petty officer Hernan Senoren, U.S. Navy; Joshua Pacheco, communications director with Pacific Radio Group; and Marie Roberts, St. Joseph Pre-school Director. (Reported by Rowena Austria)

KAPAA

St. Catherine School

Students participate in the outdoors Stations of the Cross after Mass on Feb. 15. The school held the Stations every Friday during Lent.” (Reported by Celina Haigh)

WAILUKU

St. Anthony Jr./Sr. High School

Everyone knows of someone who has been inflicted with cancer. Some survive while others lose their valiant battle to the awful disease. More than 100 St. Anthony faculty, staff, students, parents and supporters poured into at the War Memorial Gymnasium in Wailuku on Feb. 16 to raise money for the American Cancer Society. They started the evening with a “survivors walk,” and later joined other supporters sharing food, entertainment and dancing into the wee-hours of the morning. The event netted more than $23,500 with St. Anthony’s contribution totaling over $10,500! Our school also sponsored the Survivors’ Dinner — a delicious mix of spaghetti, salad, apple crisp, garlic bread and beverages for “survivors” and their caregivers. Their contribution to defeating this disease has not gone unnoticed … The school’s drama club created a video to compete in the Olelo Television Youth Exchange Video Competition. The video, made on campus, focused on education for social justice and peace. Look out for their video to be on TV soon. Here are the credits: student director, Dario Rinaldi; writer, Kacie Pico; producer Gabriel D’Souza; camera man, Nolan Thoma; CD designers, Isaiah Ragasa and Kalena Duarte; actresses, Christianna Griffiths, Julia Bissen, Lindsay Larson, Sarah MacLeod, Kaitlin Lopez and Keili Johnson. (Reported by Virginia Nary)

HONOLULU

Cathedral Catholic Academy

Like missionaries of the faith, the fourth and fifth graders recently visited the residents of a nearby convalescent center, sharing old time Hawaiian songs like E Kolu Mea Nui and the Doxology with about 50 residents gathered on the lanai. They brought smiles to the elderly audience and created a “spring spirit” with the Easter favors they made for each resident. The talented 9-year-old violinist Alexander Nomura accompanied the children with two beautiful numbers. The children received a wonderful applause and were also able to bring smiles to residents in a few private rooms. … As a culmination of the third quarter, students and faculty spent a quiet portion of their last day in a beautiful meditation as religion coordinator Michael Paekukui led a unique presentation of the Stations of the Cross. The eighth graders did a live presentation using lights and a scrim to create a shadow silhouette image of the Station being prayed. It was a very spiritual time remembering the Passion of Christ. Each class was quietly dismissed in a prayerful attitude taking with them a rich traditional experience that can only be found in this true faith. (Reported by Lei Kondo)

HONOLULU

Damien Memorial School

Middle school students, faculty and administration celebrated the end of the third quarter with a field trip and tour of the USS Missouri. Several of the students were thrilled to participate in a flight simulator. (Reported by Didi Lota)

HONOLULU

Holy Trinity School

Our students had a chance to witness something very special. Spring break began with a special St. Joseph Mass celebrated by Father Gary Secor at which several Sisters of St. Joseph renewed their vows of unending charity, compassion, and devotion to God. Our students and staff are very fortunate to have four Sisters of St. Joseph present at our school — Sister Rose Miriam Schillinger (principal), Sister Sarah Bernard Talite (kindergarten teacher), Sister Tomasa Marcos (librarian), and Sister Anita Marie Rosco (liturgist). Joining them in renewing their vows are Sister Margaret Leonard Perreira, Sister Kathleen Marie Shields, Sister Patty Chang, Sister Roselani Enomoto and Sister Rose Damien Malabon. Thank you sisters for your excellent example on how to live God’s love! (Reported by Colleen Nakama)

EWA BEACH

Our Lady of Perpetual Help School

Second grader Sherman Kho, is pictured performing with the Asian Lion Dance Team during our annual grand giveaway and Family Fun Fair on March 1. Along with the lion dance, we were entertained by all our students grades K through 8. The day was filled with fun rides, games, prizes, entertainment, food and shopping. We are grateful to our faculty and staff, parents, parishioners, volunteers and benefactors for another successful fair. (Reported by Michelle Felix, photo by Thalia Woodward)

HONOLULU

Sacred Hearts Academy

The school held a Stomp Out Assembly to reduce student auto accidents by “stomping out” distracted/disabled driving. Junior Mollie Bruhl and sophomore Jessica Porter, back from the First Annual National Teen Driver Safety Week Summit in Washington, D.C., used the experience as a catalyst to organize the assembly with advisor/teacher Carole Iacovelli. Students representing the number of teen drivers who die each year in car accidents were identified with signs throughout the day. The assembly highlighted statistics and stories of fatalities and injuries. Parents were encouraged to sign a contract with their daughters to encourage safe driving. Mollie and Jessica prepared for the assembly by meeting with teachers and enlisting art class students to create motivational posters. The program also featured Bryant Laiche from Baton Rouge, a member of the SADD (Students Against Drunk Driving) National Student Leadership Council and State Farm Youth Advisory Board who shared his own personal story of loss. Pictured are Jessica Porter and Mollie Bruhl leading a pledge to Stomp Out distracted and disabled driving. (Reported by Hayley Mathes)

KANEOHE

St. Ann Model School

Our students love to read and it shows! Second graders are assigned monthly book reports to explore new genres of literature, practice comprehension and oral reading skills, and present what they have learned to the class. For February, students were asked to read a biography, then write a speech as the person in the biography. To make the presentation even more interesting, students were asked to dress up as the famous person for the presentation. Our class was introduced to Abe Lincoln, Duke Kahanamoku, Tiger Woods, Queen Liliuokalani, George Washington Carver, Hideki Matsui, Marie Curie, Harry Houdini, and many others. Great job second graders (and their parents) for all the creativity and hard work! (Reported by Kuulei Halemano)

WAIPAHU

St. Joseph School

Aloha Sister Adele! As we celebrate the feast day of our school’s patron, Saint Joseph, on the last day before spring break, we bid a fond aloha to Sister Adele Cabagui. Since she arrived in Hawaii in the beginning of this school year, we were very blessed to have her as part of our community. Sister Adele taught religion and music classes, managed school prayer services and liturgies and coordinated the spiritual formation of many students and staff. Sister Adele was called back home to the Philippines by her congregation, the Benedictine Sisters of the Eucharistic King. The students and staff will definitely miss Sister Adele. (Reported by Keala Kia)

HONOLULU

Star of the Sea School

Our students and many teachers came together for a fun and healthy morning of jumping rope on March 13. Each one committed to raising pledges for the American Heart Association. Pictured are fifth graders Kuki’i Falahee-Walker and Kaytee Ching sharing a rope as they warm up for the multi-event morning. (Reported by Cheri Rauckhorst)

HONOLULU

St. Patrick School

On Sunday, March 16, the children in grades 2-8 from the school and the parish religious education program participated in a Lenten retreat at St. Anthony Retreat Center in Kalihi Valley. The theme was “I Will Follow Jesus.” Accompanied by teachers and parent chaperones, the children spent a day of reflection, prayer, song, activities and friendship. The morning began with Sister Anne Clare DeCosta retelling the story of Jesus’ entry into Jerusalem on Palm Sunday. Then the children joined in the three activities: walking the Stations of the Cross, decorating footprints, and making nail crosses or friendship bracelets. Mrs. Adrianne Hill, second grade teacher, and Brandon Yamada are pictured reflecting on the Crucifixion. After lunch and some playtime, the children made bookmarkers and Easter cards. At the end of the day, Sister Anne Clare taught the boys and girls how to pray the rosary. Each child received a rosary to remember this very special day. (Reported by office staff)

HONOLULU

Maryknoll High School

Former Maryknoll principal Andrew Corcoran, now head of the Chinese American International School in San Francisco, received the 2008 NAIS Global Citizen Award last month in New York City. Under his leadership, the Chinese American International School has solidified its position as a model the immersion teaching of Mandarin and in the promotion of Chinese language and culture in the United States. Corcoran continues to work with Teachers without Borders in China and previously worked with Global Children’s Organization in Bosnia, Croatia, and Ireland to aid children affected by the violence in those countries. (Reported by Camille Michel)

KAILUA

St. John Vianney School

On Feb. 11, state Rep. Cynthia Thielen presented and planted a Hawaiian Milo tree on the school grounds. The tree was donated as part of the Kanu Project. After a brief presentation to our student body on the legend of the Milo tree, representatives from all grades joined Rep. Thielen and her staff as the tree was placed in its new home. The Kanu (meaning “to plant”) Project was initiated by Rep. Thielen as a way to teach keiki to become environmental stewards by planting native trees at Windward schools. Our school was the first to participate. Now our students can grow along with their Milo tree! They’ll have a constant reminder of the part they play in helping the environment and can take pride in their role in perpetuating the growth of native plants. Pictured from left, are Rep. Thielen, Melody Heidel, groundskeeper Barney Freitas, principal Jane Quinn and students. (Reported by Annie Chee)

WAIALUA

St. Michael School

The first grade, along with their 7th grade buddies, led the Stations of the Cross on Friday, March 14. Each first grader had a chance to read a station and conduct the singing in front of the entire student body at the microphone, they have been practicing their lines for awhile, said their teacher Mrs. Dee Arecchi. The seventh graders assisted their buddies with the cross and visual aides the two classes put together to define the meaning of the stations. They all did such a wonderful job in making it a great finale before the school let out for spring break. (Reported by Jennifer Holmberg)

HONOLULU

Star of the Sea Early Learning Center

Jessy Lee, Ikaika Wilson, Nora A-Rahim and Jonah Henry were participants in “Jump Rope for Heart,” to raise funds for the American Heart Association. The money helps people in their community learn how to avoid heart disease and stroke, and also helps local patient care. The school also qualified for gift certificates for free physical education equipment. (Reported by Leanna Brake)

HONOLULU

St. Theresa School

Pictured, from left in row one, Peron Cheng, Shannon Esteban, Joshua Ancheta; in row two, Alec Pang, Ryan Quema and Mark Barranco. The fifth grade boys helped raise money for their classroom and school at the annual craft fair. They enjoyed selling the donated items but also delighted in having a “new look” for the day. The waiting line was long and Ryan and Mark anxiously pose for this picture as they awaited their turn for a “new look” too. Everyone had a good time working with classmates and showing their school spirit. Thank you to all who donated items to 5B classroom. (Reported by Sister Marian Therese Muehlbauer)

HONOLULU

Chaminade University

On March 22, in the Mystical Rose Oratory, Marianist Father Ken Templin, assisted by altar server Dan Mannell, began the Easter Vigil during which one of our students was fully initiated into the church and six other Chaminade and Saint Louis School students were confirmed. After the liturgy the congregation was welcomed to a reception at Hale Malia. (Reported by Kay Stone)