KEAUKAHA
Malia Puka O Kalani Parish
Julia Koshko leaves our parish to live by her son Father Dennis Koshko, pastor at St. Anthony Parish in Kailua. Julia has assisted our parish for many years, helping to make sure the finances have been in order. We will miss her and extend our deep gratitude to her while we wish her God’s blessings on her new move. (Reported by Father Joe Hennen)
HILO
St. Joseph Parish
On Aug. 30, at Malia Puka O Kalani Church, the Hilo Roman Catholic Community parish youth facilitated a retreat welcoming new members to their ministry. A team of 12 leaders planned and coordinated the retreat. Meditating on the theme, “Love Your Neighbor,” a handful of the leaders shared testimonies on who they considered to be their neighbor and how they show love to them. The youth were very excited as they engaged in dialogue about the Scripture messages and testimonies in small group discussions. (Reported by Chrislyn Villena)
PAHOA
Sacred Heart Parish
A true friend is someone who reaches for your hand and touches your heart. I first met such an individual in 2005 when he came from the Philippines to fill in while our pastor was on vacation. We are again blessed with his presence. I’m speaking of Father Dan C. Fuentes. The youngest of nine children and orphaned as a child, he was raised by his older brother and sisters until he entered the seminary in 1970. Ordained on April 11, 1978, for the Diocese of Mati, he has been a priest for more than 30 years. Besides parish work, he has been diocesan chancellor, superintendent of Catholic schools, director for the Bible apostolate and director for social action. He was also the president of the clergy of his diocese and is now president of the diocesan clergy of Mindanao. He is actively involved in inter-religious dialogue for peace, environmental advocacy groups, political education programs, government and non-government organizations and the Divine Mercy apostolate. Words cannot express the love this wonderful individual radiates to his flock. Though he is from an area of the world where there is constant turmoil and poverty, this man will always have a smile for you. He made me realize that I should never frown, even when I’m sad, because you never know who is falling in love with your smile. In Father Dan’s words, “I deeply believe that what I am now is what God wants me to be. In the canvas of my life, he has made in me a masterpiece and my only role is to add colors to his work of art.” (Reported by Steve Torres)
KAILUA-KONA
St. Michael Parish
The Intergenerational Family Catechesis workshops, Sept. 6-7 at the King Kamehameha Hotel in Kailua-Kona brought together 122 people, including 45 families and single adults. Workshop presenters were Jayne Mondoy and Lisa Gomes of the diocesan Office of Religious Education; Paula Liu-Smith, Pflaum Publishing; Shirley David and the catechists of the North Kona Catholic Community. The workshops kicked off a new religious education program for the North Kona Catholic Community. Instead of the traditional classroom, adults and children will meet at least twice a month in homes or other places of their choosing. The materials for the program are Living Liturgy for the adults, Gospel Weeklies for the children, and Spirit for teens. (Reported by the parish)
PAPAIKOU
Immaculate Heart of Mary Parish
On Sept. 7, 100-plus parishioners from here and Good Shepherd Mission, enjoyed a fun-filled day at the annual Summer Bash! The day began with a magic show by Yummy the Clown (parishioner Dorothy Williams), which was enjoyed immensely by both children and adults, since she included them in her tricks. A lunch of hot dogs, hamburgers, chips, potato-mac salad, fruits and cake was followed by Bingo. The children enjoyed games with Yummy, the fishing booth and a slip-n-slide. Shave ice in many flavors was a big hit on such a hot day. The weather, compliments of the Lord, was perfect. Everyone had a good time. Yummy is pictured with Father Lovell and Darlynn Okinaka our magician’s assistant. (Reported by Pat Phillips)
KAHULUI
Christ the King Parish
On Sept. 6, our parish held its first Family Fun Day on the parish grounds. It was a day of fellowship for all, getting to know one another outside of the church. Families and friends gathered to enjoy entertainment by various ethnic groups. A talent show featured participants from children to seniors. There were door prizes, good food and games for all ages. During the games, Father Ronald and Father Efren coached team members, giving them guidance and encouragement. Like the Olympics, Father Efren presented the winners with a gold coin necklace. We would like to thank all who helped put together this fun day. But most of all, we all shared the closeness as God’s family. Pictured is Father Ronald encouraging the children in the potato sack race. (Reported by Carol Ursua and Jasmine Higa)
HAWI
Sacred Heart Parish
Religious education classes have begun. While students Tanya Adams, Kailee Paro, Kainan Paro and newcomers Diran Chertavian and Aniela Chertavian waited for registration, Emma Faisca and Manu Salvador, our long time parish kitchen angels, (insert) were also busy preparing our monthly Aloha Sunday breakfast in the kitchen. (Reported by Lee Rivera)
PEARL CITY
Our Lady of Good Counsel Parish
Thirty-five attentive altar servers listened to coordinator/“den mother” Rosemarie Sumida as she conducted their monthly meeting on Sept. 7. She is assisted by Janet Ancheta, mother of server Andy and guided by director Father Rey Lim. Meetings are held to review guidelines, reorganize where needed, and report on accomplishments. Parents are active members. They not only attend the meetings, but join their sons and daughters in community service projects and spiritual development exercises. Another important parental task is to keep the albs spotless by a rotating laundering schedule. The altar servers range in ages from third grade to high school. Some have been serving for 10 years. Mrs. Sumida, herself, began as a parent helper five years ago when son Dillon began his ministry. Today, Dillon is joined by brother Marcus and sister Tara. The other two younger Sumidas are kept in the wings under watchful care of Dad Terrence. The parish thanks this very important ministry of our liturgical celebration. (Reported by Elaine Yamashita)
NANAKULI
St. Rita Parish
It started out as a very daunting task as fundraisers go. Our parish has had fundraisers before — bake sales, huli huli chicken and the like — but this was very different. Take one small parish known for its warmth, friendliness and famous barefoot pastor, trust the ability of our parishioners to do something novel, and ask them to sell tickets to a function called A Taste of St. Rita. Ask them to donate all the food, cook and serve it. The event on Aug. 23 featured Hispanic dishes such as arroz con pollo and shrimp tamales, and Filipino foods such as pork gisantes, pancit and chicken adobo. The Samoan culture offered palusami and sapasui. The Chinese booth had fried noodles and roast pork, while the Portuguese booth served malassadas and delicious bean soup. Also represented were Italian, Polish, German and American cuisines. And of course, the Hawaiian booth was there with chicken long rice, kalua pig, squid luau and butterfish. Non-stop entertainment showcased the talents of the Duhaylansods, Larry Awana, the Kelly sisters and their Polynesian dancing troupe, the parish youth who shared the songs and dances they took to New Zealand on the World Youth Day trip, Owali Littlejohn and his group, and the Nuuanu Brothers. Mahalo to Extreme Tent Rentals, the Nuuanu family for their sound system, and the awesome clean up crew! What started out as a building fund benefit turned into a celebration of parish life. The excitement of sharing cultures in the breaking of bread and the sharing in song has not faded. We want to do it again, next year... (Reported by Deacon Hal Levi)
WAILUKU
St. Anthony of Padua Parish
The 135th anniversary dinner for the Marianists on Sept. 5 at the Maui Tropical Plantation was enjoyed by more than 250 people, including several visiting Marianists from Oahu. Handling the program was emcee Judge Joseph Cardoza who with Thomas Duarte and Herman Aizawa, retired Maui fire chief and school superintendent respectively, entertained the crowd by sharing their experiences with their Marianist teachers and how well they were influenced. … There is an open initiation to the Oct. 7 “Healing Mass” at 6 p.m. in the church. … During the month of October, the rosary will be recited one half hour each day in the chapel before the morning Mass. (Reported by Miriam Kahalekai)
KULA
Kula Catholic Community
Our community recently celebrated its final church anniversary observance. Holy Ghost Church celebrated its annual feast with the traditional free laulau feast, food, games, rummage, plants, jams and jellies booths, feast queens and many more festive features. St. James and Our Lady Queen of Angels both celebrated their feast days with special Masses and luncheons. Although the three churches are located in Kula, approximately 15 minutes apart, all three communities and neighboring upcountry parishioners came together to help each church celebrate their respective feast days with “work days” at each location, set up, take down and tremendous fellowship! Much mahalo to Father Eric Castro and all the volunteers who worked so hard at each well-attended special event! (Reported by Marie Biga)
NUUANU
St. Stephen Parish
On June 6, catechists and parishioners enjoyed a spirit-filled day in peaceful Kalaupapa. Making the pilgrimage and walking the footsteps of Blessed Damien and Blessed Mother Marianne were religious education coordinator Velma Guieb-Mamuad, Jon Baron, Marcy Heafner, Christy Nakano, Chester and Cynthia Hughes, Sui and Elmer Kozuma, Meriam and Ben Ladrillono, Nadine Cho, Toni Farm, Caroline Hasegawa and Rosemary Hashimoto. Upon returning, everyone was excited to share the spiritual experience and adventurous mule ride. A big mahalo to Chester Hughes for arranging the pilgrimage. (Reported by Ginny Jordan)
KULIOUOU
Holy Trinity Parish
On Wednesday, Sept. 10, the Scripture study class resumed. All are welcome to come and review the upcoming Sunday readings with discussions and video. We meet 8:45-10 a.m. in the parish office meeting room. (From the parish bulletin)
ALA MOANA
Sts. Peter and Paul Parish
A total of $43,640 has been given to the parish building fund through the sales of “Gratia Plena,” a CD by musical members of the parish. The CD is still available for $20, all of which is given to the church. (From the parish bulletin)
EWA BEACH
Our Lady of Perpetual Help Parish
Our parish will celebrate its 40th anniversary next July and plans are underway for a year-long celebration. Three new committees — Aloha Fellowship, Stewardship and Communications — met Sept. 10 to plan the celebration and the events that will lead to it. Two other committees — Repair and Maintenance and Gardening — will be tapped for the exterior painting of the church and landscaping. The initial brainstorming session with Communications and Stewardship last month discussed plans for collecting pictures and stories of the history of the parish and from long-time parishioners and former pastors, for publication or display. A commemorative booklet is a possibility. Stories will be published in the parish bulletin and photos may be projected on the screens in church before weekend Masses. A parish picnic is also in the works, as well as a celebration of the feast day of Our Lady of Perpetual Help. (Reported by Julia Torres)
AIEA
St. Elizabeth Parish
Halau Hula O Kana Kapeka (St. Elizabeth Hula Halau), under the direction of kumu hula Dana Henderson, has been a precious part of the parish for 19 years. Although they welcome women and girls from all over, more than 50 percent are from the parish. Pictured is the women’s group during their weekly practice, 6-7:30 p.m. in St. Elizabeth Hall. They practice intensely, beginning with an oli aloha, a song of welcome, followed by a warm-up and review of the basic steps and then their dance repertoire. The halau prepares for at least three performances a year — Christmas at Aloha Tower Marketplace; Catholic Schools Week at Pearlridge Mall; and May Day at Ala Moana Center Stage. Many of the young women have been with kumu since they were children. They have participated in countless St. Elizabeth festive gatherings over the years. Dana has danced professionally all her life but her 19 years at St. Elizabeth is fueled by a desire to teach and pass on the Hawaiian culture through dance. “Our halau is non-competetive. I teach for self-gratification. When I dance, it’s a gift of love and thanks to all the students and their families who lend so much support.” (Reported by Linda Cacpal)
WAIPIO GENTRY
Resurrection of the Lord Parish
At our parish, the most faithful pray the rosary as a group (Mary Takahashi, Gaylene Colon, Hank and Lorraine Cashen, Joyce and Marvin Uehara, Bob Mace and Lynne Cullen). They meet every first Wednesday of the month at 7 p.m. and anyone may participate. Bob Mace also leads the rosary at 6 a.m. before every weekday morning Mass. Coordinator Mary Takahashi says the prayer group is a wonderful way to learn how to pray rosary. “Parents are encouraged to bring their children and expose them to such a beautiful experience at a young age,” she said. The group also prays the Divine Mercy Chaplet. Modern society is afflicted by depression, crime, war, illness, broken families, violence and abortions. The power of the rosary can transform our spiritual life and bring us back into the fullness of the Catholic Church. The month of October is dedicated to the Most Holy Rosary. Let us consider this beautiful prayer as a means to draw closer to Jesus and Mary through meditation on the great mysteries of our salvation. (Reported by Nobuko Fushimi)
WAIALUA
St. Michael Parish
The parish is planning a pilgrimage to Molokai and Kalaupapa next April. If interested, call Larry Sandbo at 722-1752. (From the parish bulletin)
ENCHANTED LAKE
St. John Vianney Parish
Did you know that our parish blood drive is the second largest faith-based source of donation to the Blood Bank of Hawaii. Last month’s drive had 56 people sign up and 27 pints drawn which can save up to 81 lives. The next drive is Sunday, Dec. 28. (From the parish bulletin)
HILO
St. Joseph Pre-School
The Butler family stands in front of a beautiful mango tree drawn and painted for our pre-school by Mr. and Mrs. John and Rae Butler. Behind John is a tape measure on the wall to chart students’ growth. (Reported by Rowena Austria)
HILO
St. Joseph Elementary School
Our students volunteer time to care for their aina by weeding and gardening. Thanks to teacher Marion Buscher for getting the students excited about helping their school community! The project has taken off and she now has a long list of volunteers! (Reported by Rowena Austria)
HILO
St. Joseph Jr./Sr. High School
At our recent annual Senior-Freshman Day, each senior was assigned a freshman “buddy” to stay with throughout the day as part of a “welcome to high school” activity. The day ended with field games — some involving lots of water! Seniors Shelly Hewett, Jeremy Andrade (lying in pool) and Kimberly Duarte (standing, right) and freshman Terava Kurth (sitting on seniors) and Kanani Jacunski (standing, left) ended the day with a dip in the dolphin pool. Senior advisor Susan Wehrsig watches in the background. (Reported by Rowena Austria)
KEKAHA
St. Theresa School
On the grounds of our school, under the shade of a beautiful tree, we held a wonderful luncheon honoring grandparents, welcomed with a colorful sign pictured here, on Sept. 5. Sister Carol Ann Gambsky and students played musical instruments and sang songs, while other students read poems they had written. Uncle Bill played many folks tunes on his fiddle to the crowd’s enjoyment. It was great to meet old friends and to make some new ones, while everyone enjoyed a delicious BBQ kalua sandwich, tossed salad, orange slices, chocolate milk and cake. The staff and students did a wonderful job coordinating the event and it’s one we all look forward to every year! Job well done!!! (Reported by Chantal A. Duarte)
KAHULUI
Christ the King School
The entire school family celebrated the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary on Sept. 8, by starting the day with a Mass. In his homily, associate pastor Father Ron Guzman reminded our kids just how special Mary is. We cheered and sang the birthday song for Mary and the children offered flowers to our Blessed Mother. Delicious cake and ice cream after Mass made the party even more festive. Yummy! (Reported by Leanne Rivera)
MAKAWAO
St. Joseph School
Gathering in fellowship and prayer, our administration and staff met at Queen of Angels Church in Keokea for their annual retreat. On Aug. 27, La Salette Father Napoleon M. Andes celebrated the morning Mass and joined the group later. The staff reflected on Scripture, and took in the beautiful grounds and setting on the slopes of Haleakala. The day ended with a delicious pot-luck lunch and strawberry tasting courtesy of host pastor Father Eric Castro’s garden. It was a time to focus on the new school year and petition the Holy Spirit to renew the staff’s commitment to service of others through God’s gifts and blessings. (Reported by Helen Souza)
HONOLULU
Sacred Hearts Academy
On Sept. 8, senior Crystal Maria, accompanied by head of school Betty White, attended the inaugural Wahine in Hawaii Business Forum presented by Hawaii Business magazine and lead sponsor Bella Pietra. They were guests of Bonnie Pang, the benefit consulting manager of Atlas Insurance Agency. Over a dozen prominent Hawaii businesswomen presented workshops on the unique business challenges facing women. The art of negotiation, entrepreneurship, leadership and community service were workshop topics. Keynote presenter Chin-Ning Chu, the best-selling author of “The Art of War for Women,” emphasized the importance of being true to oneself and transforming weaknesses into strength for success in the workplace. Pictured are Bonnie Pang with Crystal. (Reported by Hayley Matson-Mathes)
HONOLULU
Maryknoll Grade School
One hundred and fifty students from pre-kindergarten to 8th grade were honored for participating in the school’s annual summer reading program. That’s a 27 percent increase from last year. The program encourages students to read through the summer because taking a break from school shouldn’t mean taking a break from learning. The program is in its eighth year. (Reported by Stephen Florino)
HONOLULU
Maryknoll High School
Students in Steve Caley’s freshmen world history class become anthropologists as they uncovered mummies and ancient artifacts on a dig earlier this month. The “mummies” were actually chickens, mummified by last year’s class. And the “ancient artifacts” were personal items left by the students, like test notes, gift cards, toys and tools. The dig even prompted a “protest” with signs and chants by Kapono Ciotti’s class. Teachers use these project-based learning techniques, to encourage in students a deeper understanding and interest versus simply reading a textbook. (Reported by Stephen Florino)
PEARL CITY
Our Lady of Good Counsel School
Our school may not have Green Lantern or Superman, but we do have our own Wonder Women!!! This year starts off with our very own Justice League — Tori Bautista, Nellani Tabada, Nicole Tabada and Tiffany Mina — the go-to-team, “super powered” by God. Their job is a tough one — to bring awareness and action to students and families regarding injustice in our school and community. Their first plan of action is to remind students to take care of God’s world, beginning with the school. We will work on beautifying our school and take pride in it. Our recycling program will help finance the project. (Reported by Teresa Pang)
HONOLULU
Cathedral Catholic Academy
The students celebrated Grandparents Day by inviting theirs to a special Mass celebrated by Father Marino. Each grade helped decorate the hall with pictures and acrostic poetry. Mass was followed by refreshments and a special performance by the students. Pictured is kindergartener Charla Teves. (Reported by Magdalena Collins)
HONOLULU
Star of the Sea School
Our school installed new student council officers for the 2008-09 school year, following the 8 a.m. Mass on Sept. 5. They are, from left, president Saori Yamashita, vice president Brock Balmoja, representative-at-large Matt Sai, sergeant-at-arms Taylor Lee, treasurer Michael Luna, and secretary Cayla Moore. (Reported by Cheri Rauckhorst)
MANOA
St. Francis School
The men of our school continue to succeed in their new environment. These student athletes strive to do their best in the classroom and on the playing field. History in the making, Shawn Baptiste, Kahanu Puulei, Keoni-Ray Tom-Millare, Austin Ursua, Jonathan-Michael Sharsh and Isaac Savaiinaea are members of the PAC5 intermediate football team. (Reported by Karen Curry)
WAIALUA
St. Michael School
On Sept. 8, students from grades 6-8 were welcomed by their new lockers. They are proud and happy, and just feel better, having a place to store their school stuff. “It makes me feel like an older student” said a seventh grader. It is amazing how something like a locker can have such an affect on a student. We hope to gradually introduce lockers to other grades. Pictured is seventh grader Chance Margotta — and his locker. (Reported by Jennifer Holmberg)
PALAMA
Co-Cathedral of St. Theresa
On Sept. 5, joyous voices of the students, faculty and staff filled the co-cathedral with song and prayer as they welcomed in the new school year. Emphasizing the theme, “We Are Called,” Father William Kunisch commissioned the faculty and staff as educators who will “shine with the joy and the love of the Lord” for the school year 2008-09. What a wonderful way to begin! (Reported by Noreen Ueda, Grade 3A)
HONOLULU
Holy Trinity School
Our school is a part of Family Promise, a program that helps less fortunate families get back on their feet. Each quarter, the church hosts these families for one week and the school does its part by taking one day to prepare a dinner meal of appetizers, dinner and dessert, activities, and making sure the families are comfortable. Two students proudly showing one of many donations for our meals. (Reported by Colleen Nakama)
HONOLULU
Chaminade University
Members of the Campus Ministry Department gathered Aug. 23 to welcome new and returning students to campus. Pictured are Maimoa Fineisaloi, Marianist Father Ken Templin, Marianist Father John Klobuka, Margaret Uiagalelei and Kay Stone. Activities began almost immediately and thus far have included a new student retreat, several Masses and prayer services. (Reported by Kay Stone)