WAIMEA
Annunciation Parish
Pope John Paul II wrote, “Among the laity who have become evangelizers, catechists have a place of honor.” On Catechetical Sunday, the parish asked the Holy Spirit to inspire and empower the teachers of the religious education program. We are most grateful to these dedicated people: coordinator Sue Tomlinson, Liz Chock, Kai Ah Hee, Francesca DelaCruz, Susana Andrews, Barbara and Scott Gillis, Christina Arafiles, Josie and Michael Gonzales, Marci Bolos, Sue Treppenhauer, Mary Kay Carvalho and Lisa Winborne. Sacred Hearts Sister Helene Wood presented a two-day workshop on the Paschal Mystery. Over 40 people from Annunciation and Sacred Heart Church, Hawi, attended and were inspired. (Reported by Father Robert Schwarzhaupt)
KEAUKAHA
Malia Puka O Kalani Parish
Congratulations to the newly commissioned altar servers for the Hilo Roman Catholic Community. Alyah, Kailee and Tiah were trained by Cecil Farin and commissioned by Father Joe Hennen to serve at our parish. Thank you for volunteering to serve in this important ministry and God bless! (Reported by Joyce C. Saenz)
HAWI
Sacred Heart Parish
On Sept. 20-21, parish members participated in the American Cancer Society’s Relay for Life 12-hour walk. The Sacred Heart “Angels” team included Father Maurice Cardinal and Deacon Tom Adams along with Evie Adams, Ellen Caitano, Cathy and Casi Furukado, Renee and Madeline Gonsalves, Sandie and Darnell Caravalho, Raymond Valenzuela, Caylah Carvalho, Miriam Reyes, Claude Pasalo, Cecilia Sheetz, Marci Hernaez, Sally Castillo, Keao Kainoa, Moira Rabang, Lee Ann Ashimine, Amber Armstrong and Lanette Yamamoto. Family members and parishioners also came out to give their support and walk. The Angels raised $6,397 and placed first for best campsite, second for most team laps, first and third place for most team money raised. Parishioner Maile Lincoln-Carvalho chaired the relay. Mahalo to all who contributed to this worthy cause! (Reported by Lee Rivera)
PAHOA
Sacred Heart Parish
Our parish would like to thank all who have serve as parish council members. Your participation has not only provided wise counsel, visioning and planning, it has also furthered the pastoral work of the church. We especially thank four members whose terms have ended: Mabel Wilson, Erlinda Bernardo, William Cesaletti and Alfred Micallef. Our parish appreciates all you have done. Their successors are Andre Chabot, Thomas Socry, Tony Ingente and Ed Hoffman. These new members truly reflect the wisdom of our faith community. Serving on the council is a ministry. Those selected have demonstrated sound morals, wisdom and prudence. They are willing to commit their time and talent in a consultative and collaborative manner. Our parish says thank you for your service and for saying yes. “Put your gifts at the service of one another.” 1 Peter 4:10 (Reported by Steve Torres)
KAHULUI
Christ the King Parish
A special 6 p.m. Mass on Sept. 19 honored Our Lady of La Salette. This year marks 162 years since her appearance on Sept. 19, 1846, to Maximine Giraud, 11, and Milanie Calvat, 14, in the French village of La Salette. The Blessed Mother told them that the Good News must come from the human heart. It must be communicated with an understanding that speaks of justice based on love; and be shared in a gesture that expresses solidarity with human poverty and misery. Mary ended her message by saying: “Well, my children, make this message known to all my people!” The Missionaries of Our Lady of La Salette took the message of reconciliation to heart and has spread its spirit to 27 countries. After Mass, a potluck was held in the parish hall. Pictured are Father Ronald, Father Eric, Father Efren, Father Nap and Deacon Ken. (Reported by Carol Ursua and Jasmine Higa)
HILO
St. Joseph Parish
We welcomed Father Marc Alexander to celebrate Catechetical Sunday at the 11:30 a.m. Mass on Sept. 21. Twenty-two catechists were commissioned during the Youth Mass which Father John Mbinda concelebrated, assisted by Deacon Jerry Nunogawa. The catechists are looking forward to a fun, faith-filled year as they proclaim “The Word of God in the life and mission of the church.” (Reported by Joyce Saenz)
LIHUE
Immaculate Conception Parish
About 20 friends and family of EJ Resinto, a college seminarian at Mount Angels Seminary in Oregon, held this fund raiser to help him pay his tuition. They raised $5,700! (Reported by Father Bill Shannon)
KEKAHA
St. Theresa Parish
Catechists (faculty of St. Theresa School) and confirmation class instructor Raynette Kagawa were commissioned and blessed on Catechetical Sunday, Sept. 21. Parish religious education director Beverly Johnston and principal Mary Jean Buza Sims introduced the lay volunteers and faculty. We are truly blessed to have so many dedicated teachers and lay volunteers who devote time, talent and treasure teaching our young parishioners the riches of our faith. The parish thanks each of them and asks God to continue to bless them in their ministry of teacher … following in the footsteps of Jesus. (Reported by Chantal A. Duarte)
LANAI CITY
Sacred Hearts Parish
The religious education year started off with a new director, Jessie Myers, and a new assistant, Wilma Koep. Classes have started and the following have volunteered to teach our children: Evelyn Agcaoli, Stacey Purdey, Lisa Kaniho, Amanda Letteer, Jody Ige, Diane Irons, Priscilla Felipe, Natalie Jeffers, Michelle Clarabel, Sarah Chun, Christopher Etrata, Romelia Baltero, Alison Grogan, Felipa Cabatu and Caroline Bushay. Tom Butt and Sharil Baxter Butt are preparing the students for confirmation, and post-confirmation classes are being conducted by Dolores Fabrao. When substitute teachers are needed, they call Rosita Camero, Nancy Tamashiro, Eva Batoon, Jose Hermano and Melgie Maltezo. Looking over them and offering spiritual guidance is our own Father Ferdinand Ragasa. Our special mahalo goes out to all these parishioners who take time out from their busy schedules to teach our children about our Lord and our church. (Reported by Eleanor Ozoa)
WAILUKU
St. Anthony of Padua Parish
Recently retired thrift shop manager Elsie Furtado returned to her old position until a replacement is found. On Sept 22, in memory of her late husband Ben, on the second anniversary of his death and on the occasion of her birthday, Elsie treated the rectory staff to a delicious home-cooked luncheon. The parish welcomes Elsie back to the job she knows well. … The entrance to the school cafeteria has gone through a beautification process under the supervision of Joseph Medeiros, chairperson of the parish building committee. The new look features a cement pavement surrounded by a grassy area which makes for smoother access. Further repairs and improvements are needed in the dining hall and the committee is looking for volunteer help with carpentry, painting, landscaping and general maintenance. Volunteers may call the church office at 244-4148. … The prayer group has been re-organized and will meet at 7 p.m., Oct. 30, in the church center and every Thursday thereafter. Marianist Brother James Vondran is the spiritual director and will answer questions and welcome new participants. (Reported by Miriam Kahalekai)
MAKAWAO
St. Joseph Parish
A welcoming dinner for Father Napoleon is set for Oct. 18, following the 5 p.m. Mass. Portuguese soup will be served. Please bring your favorite dessert to share. We will need an attendance count so sign up on the table at the entrance of the church. … Mahalo to the Holy Name Society who presented Father Nap with a $1,000 check for the church! These funds will help replace the fans in church with quieter ones. Once again, thank you to all Holy Name Society members who worked at the rodeo and made this contribution possible. God Bless you all! (Reported by Donna Pico)
TOPSIDE
Molokai Catholic Community
About 50 parishioners and other Molokai community members gathered in the Mitchell Pauole Center on Sept. 25 to hear about progress on our new church. We were welcomed by the chairman of the building committee Stephen Petro and led in prayer by Sacred Hearts Father Clyde Guerreiro. Maui architect Frank Skowronski, assisted by Jason Medema and Maggie Sutron, explained the necessity of building a church that filled parish needs while remaining in harmony with the site and the surrounding commercial and civic buildings. Chris Hart discussed the process of obtaining a special area management permit. Many questions were answered and suggestions made. The closing hymn was sweetened by coffee and Maui’s choice cupcakes. (Reported by Jersula Manaba and Cecily Kikukawa)
PEARL CITY
Our Lady of Good Counsel Parish
Fifty years brought many memories to the 23 charter members who joined Bishop Larry Silva, clergy and parishioners for Mass and festivities on Sept. 13. Plans are in progress to expand the facilities. Thus, the bishop, pictured with pastor Father Pascual Abaya IV and the community, took the opportunity to bless the site of the dream parish hall, which will be erected in the coming year. A fabulous luau and entertainment by talented parishioners culminated the evening. (Reported by Elaine Yamashita)
KALIHI
St. John the Baptist Parish
On the feast of the Exaltation of the Holy Cross, Sept. 14, the Gimong Ilokano and parishioners of celebrated Mass with two visiting Filipino priests who are studying in Rome: Father Edwin Fontanilla and Father Noel Ian Rabago. Father Edwin presided and Father Ian accompanied the choir on the piano. The Mass was celebrated and songs were sung in Ilocano. As you can see from the picture, the group was rejuvenated by Father Edwin’s uplifting homily and Father Ian’s beautiful “concert.” The celebration concluded as usual with fellowship in the hall and lots of delicious Filipino dishes. (Reported by Velma Agustin)
PAUOA VALLEY
Blessed Sacrament Parish
The parish vocations committee sponsored a dinner/movie on Saturday, Sept. 20, after the 5 p.m. Mass for all parishioners of St. Stephen and Blessed Sacrament Churches under the theme “Hearing God’s Call.” After a welcome and grace by Deacon Ron Choo, more than 85 parishioners lined up to a buffet of a single entrée — chicken, chicken, chicken — prepared in delightfully different ways. Starches, salads and desserts completed the menu. The vocation video “Fishers of Men” followed. Then Father Khanh Pham Nguyen spoke on the current Pauline Year, encouraging evangelization and prayers for vocations. He asked for God’s blessings upon the vocations committee: Deacon Choo, Fe Cardenas, Liz Lum, Luisa and Joe Padron, Joe and Onolata Soon and Helen Tui. St. Paul prayer cards were distributed and read. After a short break, many stayed for the award-winning movie “Bella” — and popcorn. It was a message of much aloha, thanks to all the ministries and committees that contributed. We thank all the religious, clergy, deacons and our bishop for hearing their call to their vocation and serving in our diocese. (Reported by Liz Lum)
WAHIAWA
Our Lady of Sorrows Parish
Hundreds of parishioners and visitors joined in the Our Lady of Sorrows procession, rosary and prayer service in honor of the church’s patroness on the evening of Sept. 14. The procession began at the church and proceeded around the church and school grounds to five shrines erected by parish groups where at each one a decade of the rosary was recited. After the prayer service, everyone gathered at the parish hall for a mammoth potluck dinner. (Reported by Jack Kampfer)
NUUANU
St. Stephen Parish
Sept. 2l was Catechetical Sunday and the first day of religious education classes. Catechists commissioned that day were Velma Guieb-Mamuad (coordinator), Cathy Devaney (assistant), Christy Nakano, Joyce Villalobos, Marcy Heafner, Vicki Lee, Jon Baron, Tina Villalobos, Joe Salas, Chester Hughes, Sweetie Pacarro, Mary Loy, Patti Salas, Marcos Brackins (youth), Mike Stock, Tiffany Mina, Nellani Tabada, Bubba Flores, Kristofferson Anobung, Gary Bosclaire, Debbie Fujiyama (RCIA) and Rosemary Hashimoto. We pray that our catechists and students have a successful and spirit-filled year. Along with our catechists, we are all teachers by our lives, our examples and our prayers. (Reported by Ginny Jordan)
KULIOUOU
Holy Trinity Parish
Mahalo to all parishioners who helped make our second Family Promise host week a successful one. We hosted four families with eight adults and six children ages one-and-a-half months, 11 months, 2, 3, 4 and 7. Our guests deeply appreciated the backpacks for their children and other special things we did for them. One of the parents had a birthday which we celebrated with a cake, candles and gifts. Our next host week is Thanksgiving week. (From the parish bulletin)
ALA MOANA
Sts. Peter and Paul Parish
The parish bulletin happily announced the baptism of four children on Sept. 14: Karleen Josephine Kama, daughter of Richard Kama and Ailinta Skimpy; Sophia Jae-in Song, daughter of Jaymes Song and Colleen Shidaki; and Dansel Adson and Riei Tyson Anselmo, the children of Adson Anselmo and Achou Kama. The parish also welcomed new parishioner Ester Leon Guerrero. (From the parish bulletin)
EWA BEACH
Our Lady of Perpetual Help Parish
Twenty-five catechists gave up their Saturday on Sept. 20 to attend “A Scriptural Retreat for Catechists” here. Father Scott Bush gave the keynote talk based on this year’s Catechetical Sunday theme: “The Word of God in the Life and Mission of the Church,” the same theme as the Synod of Bishops in Rome this month. Father Scott spoke on how Scripture is shaping Catholic attitudes, how the Bible is used for daily prayer, worship and study, and what efforts are proving effective in making the Bible central to Catholic living. Father Scott concluded by leading the catechists in a prayer on the Transfiguration of the Lord as related in the Gospel of Mark. Catechists also shared how they received their call to catechetical ministry and reflected on Bible passages and a skit on the call of Abraham, Moses, Jeremiah and Paul. The day ended with a recitation of the Catechist Prayer. Attending the retreat were Donna Alvaro, Mel Amion, Vera Bangan, Louie Ben, Remi Cabrera, Holly Corpuz, Precy Cuizon, Jo-Ann Dinulong, Susan Duffy, Kathy Grube, Sandi Javar, Bernie Kanalulu, Lily Lambinicio, Gina Maki, June Melendez, Aida Morales, Eleanor Ragojo, Dolly Salvatierra, Darryl Saronitman, Julie Sejalbo, Brandon Serrano (musician), Grace Shields, Sandy Thomas, Julia Torres and David Tupper. Commissioning of all catechists and the youth ministry team took place at all Masses the weekend of Sept. 20 and 21. (Reported by the Julia Torres)
WAIPIO GENTRY
Resurrection of the Lord Parish
Long lines of anxious and salivating parishioners are testimony of how popular our malasada and cascaron sale is every time we have it. Our first of the year sale was Sept. 14. The day before, Confirmation I students, parents, and sponsors streamed into the church’s lanai — a makeshift kitchen — to prepare our delicious malasada dough. What a wonderful way to spend a Saturday afternoon — cooking together while enjoying fellowship! The youths used their knowledge of fractions to measure ingredients, learned how the yeast works, and had lots of fun immersed to their elbows mixing the gooey dough. Some parishioners’ minds might have drifted off to the irresistible aroma of malasada being fried outside the church during Mass (sorry, Father!). The profits will fund our faith formation education. (Reported by Nobuko Fushimi, photo by John Wheeler)
AIEA
St. Elizabeth Parish
The parish that eats and plays together stays together. So St. Elizabeth’s must really be together! Our annual farewell-to-summer took place Labor Day, Sept. 1, at Bellow’s Beach with the usual pot-luck style favorite foods and plenty of laughter. We were fortunate to have a pavilion with a grill but plenty of families also brought tents and more grills and food. Taste of Honolulu probably started here where everyone goes table-to-tent for samples. The sun and waves were gorgeous and all went well except for one person’s “close encounter of the painful kind” with a Portuguese Man O’ War! Oh well, you know what the remedy is for that one — family, faith and friendship in Christ. What could be better? (Reported by Linda Cacpal, photo provided by Bernie Teson)
HILO
St. Joseph Pre-School
Future carpenter in training? One of our pre-school students thoroughly enjoys the “job” he chose recently loosening bolts. Students may choose from several different activities daily as part of the school’s curriculum. (Reported by Rowena Austria)
HILO
St. Joseph Elementary School
Yikes! There’s a giant lizard on your arm! First grader Christian Pataray reads a book with his chameleon friend “Ty” recently as part of our library’s Reading with Friends event. Ty is the kindergarten class pet. (Reported by Rowena Austria)
HILO
St. Joseph Jr./Sr. High School
Ninth graders, from left, Thomas Fairman, Austin Lee and Sawyer Rogers work on a physics project in teacher Michael Kingston’s class recently. Race tracks were set up and toy hot wheels cars were “driven” down the tracks. Each team was provided a radar gun to clock the car’s speed at different points on the track. (Reported by Rowena Austria)
WAIALUA
St. Michael Parish
A memorial Mass was celebrated Sept. 27 for longtime parishioner and volunteer Mary Clark Devereux who died in Columbia, Maryland, on Sept. 4 at the age of 93. An Oahu North Shore resident since 1960, she was a volunteer teacher at St. Michael School for 18 years and a volunteer in the rectory for 10 years. She finally “retired” at age 89. Failing health forced her several years ago to move to Maryland where she has family. (From the parish bulletin)
KAILUA
St. Anthony Parish
Our thrift shop will be open Sept. 4, 9 a.m.-noon. If it goes well, we’d like to open the first Saturday of each month. We have a good selection of Halloween items and so much more, and our prices are very reasonable. Come check it out. Our address is 114 Makawao Street, Kailua. We also have scheduled our Christmas Craft Fair for Nov. 8, 9 a.m.-2 p.m. To reserve a table, please call 266-2226 and ask for Val! (Reported by Elin Farrell)
ENCHANTED LAKE
St. John Vianney Parish
The parish will have a blessing of the animals on the Feast of St. Francis, Oct. 4, at 9 a.m., at the Circle of Peace. Parishioners are urged to bring their pets in cages or on leashes “so we do not end up with any animal or people injuries.” (From the parish bulletin)
WAILUKU
St. Anthony Grade School
On Sept. 15 during morning assembly, the Honorable Judge Joseph Cardoza inducted our 2008-09 student council members. Officers are secretary Taylor Tavares; president Gabrielle Ratte; vice-president Austin Sajor and treasurer Daniel Hermes da Fonseca. We also have nine class representatives. We look forward to a wonderful and exciting year under their leadership. (Reported by Samantha Gomes)
WAILUKU
St. Anthony Jr./Sr. High School
On a beautiful August morning, the Trojan football team journeyed to scenic Iao Valley and climbed to the famed St. Anthony cross erected by the class of 1956. The experience was a spiritual one for all, helping the team and coaches bond while caring for a part of school tradition. Once there, Dario Rinaldi recited a prayer and the gentlemen cleared out some brush and did some gentle landscaping. For most, it was their first time at the cross, which they faithfully and respectfully face when singing their alma mater from Sullivan Field. About the experience, Myles Gregory said, “It was hard going up but it was a good accomplishment as a team. We all helped each other out and in the end it was fun.” (Reported by Virginia Nary)
MAKAWAO
St. Joseph School
Our church and school celebrated Catechetical Sunday and the annual Ohana Potluck Picnic on Sept. 21. The celebration began with a 9 a.m. Mass that acknowledged and blessed the instructors, staff and volunteers who give the light of Christ to others through their work and faith. Pictured is religious education coordinator Alicia Kapua extending the flame to fellow teachers and instructors during the candle-lighting portion of the Mass. After the liturgy, all joined in fellowship at the Ohana Potluck Picnic, with games, a slip-n-slide ride and lots of fun. It was a perfect day of great weather, good food, family and fun. Thank you to all who participated and volunteered to make it a Sunday of sharing in the true ohana spirit in Christ. (Reported by Helen Souza)
KAPAA
St. Catherine School
The St. Catherine School Service Club is a blessing to many. When I first spoke to the students about it, I was overwhelmed at the positive response. Open to the 5th through 9th grade, the club has 14 members. In our first get-together, Sept. 11, we walked to Mahelona Hospital, a long-term care facility, to spend time with the residents. It was incredibly rewarding. Gabriel Allen called out numbers for Bingo. Others helped residents with their Bingo cards and played with them. Alicia Gilbert, showing so much excitement as each number was called, brought to her partner’s face a smile that was priceless. Evangeline Cook and Teresa Huff served water to the thirsty gentlemen they were partnered with. After Bingo, it was time for refreshments and talk story. Simianne Aiu-Taber fed a woman who was unable to feed herself. An 82-year-old woman took off her handmade necklace and gave it to Gabriel Allen. Jodi Reis admired the lovely hat another woman wore. Samantha Gilbert was concerned for a lady who could not get off her gurney and had lost her sock. In just one hour, the young and the elderly bonded, smiled and joy abounded. Residents received the respect and dignity they deserved as children of God. Many asked us to come back. The children “were so nice to come,” one woman said. A Mahelona employee said more residents than usual showed up for activities because of the children. … On our second visit, we did some coloring. We brought Halloween coloring pages, encouraging the artistic ability in one gentleman, Daniel, who never colors! Kyra Monterossa colored several pages with the lady in the pretty hat. Katherine Lindsey let a woman in a wheel chair, who could not color on her own, select the colors and colored for her. Tiala O’Brien and a gentleman named John did a beautiful floral drawing together. John told me what a pleasant young girl Tiala is! Keapolani Palmeira-Beamer made a St. Catherine Service Club sign to hang at Mahelona before visiting his uncle, who is a resident. Cody Palmer helped a gentleman put a puzzle together. Ka’imi Moniz colored with several patients. After just two visits, Alexandria Croydon knows many resident names and ages. Before leaving, the staff thanked the students with apple juice and peanut butter and jelly sandwiches. We plan to visit Mahelona every Thursday. Next time, we will string beaded jewelry. All the students expressed how much they enjoyed their visit; they realize the importance of serving others. I can’t say who will get more out of this — the students, the residents or myself — but I can say St. Catherine students are putting their faith in action! Mahalo to the parents who have raised such caring, compassionate children! (Reported by Celina Haigh, principal)
HONOLULU
Cathedral Catholic Academy
The fifth grade class experienced the beauty and wonders of God’s creation on a field trip to Foster Botanical Gardens. The students had a hands-on experience learning about the many varieties, classifications, and uses of plants native to the Hawaiian Islands. (Reported by Joe Henderson)
HONOLULU
Maryknoll High School
The family of athletic director Patricia Heatherly (kneeling) is all smiles after finishing the annual Nike 5K for Kids on Sept. 20 in Waikiki. Participants could’ve either done a 5K run, or a one-mile walk down Kalakaua Avenue. With all entry fees going back to the school, Maryknoll’s 460+ participants raised more than $7,000. The money normally goes to the physical education program, but this year will go toward the capital campaign for the Maryknoll School Community Center. (Reported by Stephen Florino)
HONOLULU
Damien Memorial School
School president Bernard Ho stands proudly with gold, silver and bronze medal winners for academic excellence in the 2007-2008 school year who were honored at a recent school assembly. Congratulations to our outstanding young men and their families! Class of 2009: gold — Andrew Hee, silver — Daniel Madayag, bronze — Nicholas Cerny. Class of 2010: gold — Joseph Go, silver — Corey Chang, bronze (tie!) — Andrew Agustin and Jeremy Nitta. Class of 2011: gold — Scott Dona, silver — Jacob Castro, bronze — Zachary Sousa. Class of 2012: gold — Ryan Nillo, silver — Eric Ganding, bronze — Jonathan Paeste. (Reported by Didi Lota, photo by Roxane Goo)
HONOLULU
Star of the Sea School
One of the exciting events at the beginning of the school year is when new altar servers are blessed and installed. Following a Mass, Blessed Sacrament Father Mark Del Rosario, Brother Salvador Yanzon and lay teacher Kathy Botelho installed, pictured from left, Chasie Hirakawa, Ryan Johnson, Nicholas Wong, Kristina Kealoha, Brianne Nakasone, Cortez Feria, Ellie Ramirez, Keen Ching and Austin Edwards. (Reported by Keith Haugen, photo by Cheri Rauckhorst)
HONOLULU
Star of the Sea Early Learning Center
As part of their science lesson, preschoolers Darwin Do, right, and Alexander Lee are busy preparing their soil for planting sunflower and pumpkin seeds. In back, Catherine Kim looks on with curiosity. (Reported by Leanna Brake)
KANEOHE
St. Ann Early Learning Center
We celebrated Kupuna Day on Sept. 17 with more than 100 grandparents coming to spend the morning with their grandchildren. Kupuna and their grandchildren began their day by celebrating Mass and participating in the launch of the new school year. The highlight for both young and old was the sharing of the school day. Grandparents went into the classrooms and drew pictures, read stories and did other activities with their grandchildren. The day ended with a delicious lunch served in the courtyard. Pictured is kindergartener Brandon Lum with his grandma Dorinda Lum proudly showing off the picture they created together. (Reported by Kuulei Halemano)
HONOLULU
Maryknoll Grade School
Pinwheels spin through the air as students participate in the worldwide “Pinwheels for Peace” project. Each of the 900 grade school students decorated his or her pinwheels with a personal message of peace. The assembly featured the Prayer of Saint Francis and a representative from each grade level presented a white rose to the statue of Our Lady of Lourdes. Middle school students later planted their pinwheels in the grotto, for all to enjoy. (Reported by Stephen Florino)
KAILUA
St. Anthony School
Twenty-five students braved the rain to help malama Waikalualoko Fishpond on Sept. 13, by clearing invasive seaweed and mangrove. Shown here are 7th and 8th grade students ready to head out and bag the invasive limu. (Reported by Marcia Braden)
HONOLULU
Holy Trinity School
Sept. 17 was a special day — we celebrated our wonderful grandparents. Grandparents are an essential part of our students’ lives. We invited them to morning Mass followed by breakfast and activities such as making leis and reading together. It was definitely a happy day for us! Thank you to all our grandparents for all you do! (Reported by Colleen Nakama)
KAILUA
St. John Vianney School
Our fourth graders are already preparing for their annual trip to Volcano National Park on the Big Island. Their big fundraising effort this year will be selling Christmas trees! If anyone is interested in purchasing one, please call the school office. Our first quarter ended on Sept. 26 and we return on Oct. 13 after a most welcomed break. We’re busy studying our school-wide learning expectations and have learned all about becoming effective communicators and good Catholic learners! (Reported by Annie Chee)
KANEOHE
St. Ann School
Our Model Schools began the 2008-2009 year with the launching of our action plan: “A Vision Shared: the journey is the destination.” This is the fourth year of the six-year plan. The students began the morning of Sept. 17 with a back-to-school Mass and then gathered around the outdoor stage to watch the release of 75 brightly colored birds, blowing bubbles as the birds took flight. Birds in flight symbolize St. Ann’s vision of reaching new heights in our commitment to provide quality, Catholic education to our students. Pictured are the administration, faculty and students releasing the colorful birds into the air. (Reported by Kuulei Halemano)
WAIPAHU
St. Joseph School
On Sept. 10, our school celebrated Cafeteria Staff Appreciation Day. Pictured, from left, Sharon Aipoalani, Mary Chun, Yasue Young and cafeteria manager Grace Tokuda were honored by the students and faculty at the weekly school wide worship. Everyday, these four wonderful ladies prepare a tasty variety of food with always the right amount of love for their students. In appreciation for their dedication and hard work, the students treated the cafeteria staff to songs, cards, leis, and a delicious meal served by students from the Ohana Council. Hats off for a job well done! (Reported by Nikka Sonido and Esperanza Carrancho, seventh grade)
HONOLULU
Saint Louis School
In celebration of National World Peace Day on Sept. 19, our school reflected on bringing peace into our lives and the world we live in. On strips of paper received during religion class, students wrote reflections on how they would invoke peace in the world, at school and at home. On Thursday afternoon, the LIFE team and students strung the reflections together into a chain. On Friday morning, faculty, staff and the students saw how we can all make a difference as the peace chain was hung in the main hallway of Bertram Hall for the celebration. The characteristics of a Marianist education are service, justice and peace. In celebrating World Peace Day, the students were encouraged to reflect on how they could change the world and their own personal lives. Thank you to junior counselor Rick Collins for his leadership in this project and “giving peace a chance.” (Reported by Jodi-Anne Yoshida)
HONOLULU
Sacred Hearts Academy
Our school earned first place in the marching band division of the Aloha Week Parade Sept. 13. With 140 musicians, eight color guard and 12 dancers, under the direction of Matthew Martin, ours is the largest, all-girls band in the United States. The theme of this year’s Aloha Festivals, Sept. 11-13, was “Hula, The Art of Hawaiian Dance.” Its floral parade featuring marching bands has been around for 60 years. According to head of school Betty White, “The students enjoy preparing for the annual Aloha Week parade, and this year, they had even more energy and enthusiasm resulting from their excitement of also preparing for the prestigious London New Year’s Day Parade on Jan. 1.” The Academy’s band is one of a dozen U.S. marching bands selected to participate in the London parade. Pictured are Charlie Kapua and chair of the Aloha Week Parade Toni Lee, with Academy band booster Yvonne Slaughter, band president Kelsey Lopez, instructor and director Matthew Martin and Betty White. (Reported by Hayley Matson-Mathes)
HONOLULU
St. Patrick School
Grade 2A teacher Gwen Torres led more than 40 students who had signed up for this year’s Nike 5K Fun Run, Sept. 21 in Waikiki. The run went from Kalakaua Avenue around Diamond Head and back to the starting line. One hundred percent of the proceeds is given back our school. (Reported by Lynn Murao)
HONOLULU
Chaminade University
Our students enjoyed free ice cream sundaes as well as gathered information about upcoming campus ministry events in the areas of retreats, community service and spiritual enrichment during campus ministry’s fall semester ice cream social. When the two-hour event was over, 22 gallons of ice cream had been served and many students had signed up for the various events. (Reported by Kay Stone)
WAIALUA
St. Michael School
On Sept. 21, more than 60 of our students and family members’ joined over 9,000 runners and walkers in Waikiki for the annual Nike Fun Run, a benefit for schools across the islands. A portion of the registration fee goes directly to the school of your choice. The students and parents started together at the three-mile starting line and gathered at the finish line to watch everyone of their classmates cross. Seventh grader Mackenzie Eberhardt was the first St. Michael representative to finish at a little over 20 minutes. All the students received medals at the end that brightened their day. Thank you to all who participated. It was a fun adventure. Hope to see you all, plus more, next year! (Reported by Jennifer Holmberg)