Derek Fukuda entered the RCIA program at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Parish in Sept. 2003, when he was planning to marry a Catholic. When the relationship broke up, Fukuda decided he wanted to become a Catholic anyway, thanks to the strong faith and example of his sponsor, John Thomas.

Fukuda said that Thomas’ dedication and enthusiasm ignited his faith.

“When I needed a sponsor I thought of him,” Fukuda said. “I have other friends and relatives that have been baptized, but he was my inspiration.”

Fukuda grew up with three bothers in a Buddhist family in Kalihi. He now works for the State of Hawaii’s Department of Labor unemployment office as an office manager.

“We didn’t go to church,” he said. “The only time we went was New Year’s or funerals.”

The first time he entered a Catholic Church was when he was about 15. Some of his Catholic friends were headed for Midnight Mass and he just tagged along.

“I didn’t really know what was going on,” he said.

Fukuda said that he didn’t realize the RCIA class would take as many months as it did to complete, but is grateful for the process. He said that once he started, he could not wait for Wednesdays.

“I feel like it is enriching and inspiring,” he said. “I cannot wait to get baptized.”

 “Every time I come to these classes, I learn something new.” Fukuda said. “The sharing with the whole group — that is inspiring.”

He said that no one in his family will be attending the Easter vigil at which he will be baptized.

“They have never experienced a Catholic Mass, but that is O.K.,” he said. “They are supportive. It is a silent support.”