LIHUE
Immaculate Conception Parish
EJ Resinto, left, one of two new seminarians is shown here at his parish going-away party Jan. 6 with Bishop Larry Silva and fellow seminarian Anthony Rapozo. EJ is a freshman at Mt. Angels College Seminary in Oregon. Anthony is in his second year of theology at St. Patrick Seminary in Menlo Park, Calif. Both are parishioners here. … On Jan. 27, there will be a blessing of Blessed Mother Marianne Cope’s mosaic which will be hung opposite Blessed Damien in our church. Sacred Heart Sister Dorothy Santos and Karen Lucas are the artists who worked on the beautiful piece. Both will be present for the blessing with the Sisters of St. Francis. Our parishioners contributed generously toward the mosaic. This event is one of the diocesan events commemorating the 125th anniversary of the Sisters of St. Francis arrival in Hawaii. (Reported by Sister Florence Remata, OSF)
KAPAA
St. Catherine Parish
The parish social ministry is collecting non-perishable food items for the parish food pantry. Parishioners and visitors are encouraged to drop off donations at any of the three churches or at the church office. The food will be distributed to the needy throughout the year. … Also gathering up speed is the parish youth ministry. The youth (along with several youth-at-heart) gather a couple times a month for fun and games in Coyle Hall. A bowling night is being planned along with movie and pizza nights. And most recently, the Sunday 5 p.m. Mass is being served by the youth of the parish in various ministries … Pictured are deacons Tommy Contrades, Bill Farias and Manny Pascua entertaining their parishioners with song at a gathering on their first year anniversary of deaconate ordination. (Reported by Carmen Nakasone)
MAKAWAO
St. Joseph Parish
Fat Tuesday Social is Feb. 5 at 6 p.m. in the gym. Menu: Portuguese Bean Soup with bread (New Orleans Style) and dessert. Entertainment: Jazz music during dinner and Bingo to follow. Donation: $10 per person along with a white elephant gift for bingo! Tickets are on sale in the parish office or after the Masses on Jan. 19 and 20. … La Salette Father Stevanus Suharna presented the installation of officers for the Holy Name Society on Dec. 9. Pictured, from left, are secretary Lawrence Abreu; treasurer Alfred Perry; associate pastor Father Stevanus Suharna, vice president Joseph Ferreira; president Abel Cravalho; (Missing is marshall David Valencia). (Reported by Donna Pico, picture by Gus Fuentes)
PEARL CITY
Our Lady of Good Counsel Parish
The new year extends congratulations to new officers who generously offer to lead their groups and to outgoing officers who completed a successful year. The lector ministry installed Annemarie Hashimoto as chairperson and Rudy Salvador and Aracelli Manrique as assistants. Also installed on Jan. 6 were the officers of the 65-strong Samoan Choir. Pictured, from left, are president Vai Iamanu, vice president Filipo Bartley, secretary Rachel Faaafu and treasurer Tia Afoa. … Another exciting announcement for the parishioners is a T-shirt design contest, Jan. 19-March 4. The winning design will be printed on the 50th anniversary T-shirt to advertise the Fall 2008 Celebration. (Reported by Elaine Yamashita)
WAIMEA
Annunciation Parish
Annunciation was the last Maryknoll parish in our Diocese. Father Robert Wynne was the last of the eight dedicated Maryknoll Fathers who served here. The pastoral council is planning to erect a small bell tower in memory of the Maryknoll Fathers. The old church bell used by the Sacred Hearts Fathers and Maryknoll Fathers will hang in the tower. (Reported by the parish)
KIHEI
St. Theresa Parish
Volunteers spent their afternoon on Dec. 23 wrapping gifts to be distributed on Christmas Day at Hale Kau Kau. The Hale Kau Kau project feeds the hungry with no questions asked 365 days a year. On Christmas day, 300 people were served and all received gifts that had been donated from various sources and lovingly wrapped by Sky, Anita, Peg, Marie, Stephanie, Carol and Marie. The feast consisted of prime rib with all the trimmings including the traditional holiday desserts. Hale Kau Kau is headed by kitchen manager, Marie Osaki, and staffed by volunteers who cook, serve, clean up and deliver meals to the homebound. Hale Kau Kau is supported by donations from generous individuals and institutions. The annual fund raiser is a luau which will be held this year on Feb. 2. The Christmas season has come to an end but the good work done at Hale Kau Kau goes on and on. (Reported by Anita Carrington)
KAHULUI
Christ the King Parish
On Dec. 30 at the 10 a.m. Mass celebrated by Father Efren, assisted by Father Ron and Deacon Ken, there was a commissioning ceremony for the new altar servers — Julia Bissen, Kelvin Bio, Mitchell Casio, Jourdan Casio, Caitlyn Cortez, Cassidy Cortez, Haloa Dudoit, Paul Jervis, Nicole Opena, Angus Owan Jr., Aleksander Paet, Aundre Paet, Celia Purdy, Dominic Tabisula and Paolyne Quemado. The newly installed officers for the extraordinary ministers are Jeffrey Thomas (chairperson), Mila Corpuz (asst. chairperson), Anita Fernandez (secretary), Eleanor Aquinde (treasurer), Renee Menor (scheduler). For the lector ministers — Monica Natividad (chairperson), Wilbert Torricer (asst. chairperson), Jhennie Onnagan (secretary), Jasmine Higa (asst. secretary), Frances Souki (treasurer). Ushers/hospitality ministers — Abe Opena (chairperson), Fely Atay (asst. chairperson), Dominic Opena (secretary), Shirley Bersamin (treasurer). In charge of environment ministry — Al and Bobbie Sensano. In charge of music ministry — Irene Cambra. Pictured are Father Efren, Father Ron, Deacon Ken and the new altar servers. (Reported by Carol Ursua and Jasmine Higa)
HILO
St. Joseph Parish
Christine Andrews, who has been a fixture behind the organ at our parish for the past 35 years, has officially retired. Besides her regular weekend duties, Chris has also been the accompanist for the Aloha Choir for about 20 years. In addition, she has played at countless weddings and funerals during her tenure. A grateful parish community congratulates you Chris! Enjoy your retirement and go with our best wishes for God’s blessings. Mahalo a nui loa! (Reported by Karen Hotniansky and Cicila Shinoda)
WAHIAWA
Our Lady of Sorrows Parish
Each year the religious education department conducts a parish drive to provide Christmas gifts to the homeless children at Catholic Charities’ Maililand Transitional Housing. Parish director of religious education Jack Kampfer, left, and parish administrator Father Edgar Brillantes are shown with Litia Mira of Maililand and the station wagon holding 100 gifts from the parish. (Reported by Jack Kampfer)
PAUOA VALLEY
Blessed Sacrament Parish
Dressed in their beautiful costumes, the children performed the Nativity story before Christmas Eve Mass. Parish secretary Rosemary Hashimoto directed the newly formed children’s choir, assisted by Adrienne Winchester on the piano. With the sanctuary bedecked with the lights of Christmas and the stable warmed by the scenery of the nativity, the spirit of the evening was filled with the angelic voices of children and bells that rang out to touch the hearts and rekindle the Christmas story. During the meditation, the children’s choir sang a beautiful rendition called “Jesus, You Are King.” Gathering the children at his side before the Mass concluded, Father Khanh Pham Nguyen shared a heart warming story of The Crippled Lamb. This meaningful story drew the attention of the children and parishioners alike because it related to life. Joshua the lamb was different and often left out. However, God had a special plan for his life, as he does for all who feel alone. In the story Joshua not only witnessed the greatest event of the birth of Christ, but he was able to give the newborn King the one thing he needed the most. Father Nguyen concluded by saying that no matter who we are or how different we may be, God loves us all and never leaves us out. It is an opportunity to find our gift to share with others just as Joshua shared his wool with Baby Jesus. (Reported by Leimomi Kondo)
LANAI CITY
Sacred Hearts Parish
December was a busy month. It started with Christmas carols. Parishioners, with Father Ferdinand Ragasa, went singing house-to-house. All the money donated from their efforts will be used for the upkeep of the church and grounds. From Dec. 16 to 24, “Misa Aguildnaldo” Masses were celebrated every morning at 5:30 a.m. This Mass prepares the faithful for the coming of the Baby Jesus. After Mass, a special breakfast was enjoyed by everyone. … A special Mass on Dec. 21 marked the anniversary of the ordination of Father Ferdinand, our parish administrator. He was ordained Dec. 21, 1990, in Santa Cataina, Ilocos Sur, Philippines. In his homily, Father Ferdinand said that 17 years as a priest has helped shape him to love and serve all mankind. He said it was a struggle in the beginning, but he persevered with the help of God and his benefactors. Among them is Rose Ben, pictured here with Father Ferdinand. Mrs. Ben is visiting from Los Angeles. She is a great inspiration to him. He thanked everyone for helping him celebrate and asked that they continue to inspire and support him. Dinner followed and Father Ferdinand even entertained us with his beautiful singing voice. … On Dec. 23, our choir entertained guests at The Four Seasons Lodge at Koele with Christmas carols. … Children’s Mass was 6 p.m. on Christmas Eve. The children of the religious education classes presented the Nativity Story. After Mass, Santa gave gifts to all the children present. Yes it was a special month for us, but it was over all too soon. We extend our best wishes for a Happy New Year from our parish to yours. (Reported by Eleanor Ozoa)
HAWI
Sacred Heart Parish
Our religious education department put on Christ is the Heart of Christmas program on Christmas Eve, followed by Mass, the first of four Christmas Masses our parish celebrated. In spite of the rainy weather, attendance was well received at all four Masses. Much mahalo to our religious ed teachers for their countless hours working with the children of our parish! As we begin the new year, our parish will continue to have a Children’s Mass (with children participation where possible) on the first Sunday of every month and Youth Mass (with youth participation where possible) on the fourth Sunday of every month. (Reported by Lee Rivera)
PAPAIKOU
Immaculate Heart of Mary
The activities committee under the direction of Debra Luiz was busy during November and December. In mid-November they put together Thanksgiving baskets of canned ham, canned vegetables, cranberry sauce and pudding and fruit cups to give to the shut-ins of our parish and Good Shepherd Mission. Their next project was the annual Christmas party on Dec. 9. The food was delicious. The children enjoyed getting “goody bags” from Santa after they performed the “Twelve Days of Christmas.” A good time was enjoyed by all! Pictured, from left, are Janet Araujo, Rosanna Figueira, Pat Phillips, Debra Luiz, Evelyn Alleman and Cecelia Luiz and Santa. (Reported by Pat Phillips)
PAHOA
Sacred Heart
Our parish was fortunate to experience a wonderful and colorful gathering of our Micronesian brothers and sisters celebrating Mass on Jan. 5 in their traditional ways. Presiding at the liturgy was Father Rosendo Rudolf with Deacon Julio Akapito. We are truly blessed in Hilo to have such a large group of Micronesians who have migrated here. Thomas Sorcy, a proud parishioner and president of their association, explained the event. About twice a year, a priest from Chuuk (formerly Truk) comes to Hawaii and celebrates Mass and administers the sacraments to their community. They gather as a family to celebrate the Mass in their vibrant traditional ways. Of all the Micronesians, Chuukese are the largest group of Catholics. What is so outstanding is the sound of their voices singing. Without any direction of a choir director, their voices blend in perfect harmony. The beauty and aroma of the flowers which adorn the church is magnificent. But most of all, the participation of the congregation is something to behold. The women dressed in their colorful dresses with their hair bundled tight in buns and set with beautiful combs is a sight in itself. Sitting in church watching the celebration for the first time, I was amazed. Love just glowed in the faces of everyone. If you ever have a chance to experience this, do so. (Reported by Steve Torres)
HONOLULU
Cathedral of Our Lady of Peace
We held our first Hospitality Sunday in our newly purchased building at 1159 Fort Street on Jan. 6. All enjoyed gathering in a place away from the wind. The next day we began breaking down walls, plastering, painting, and carpeting so that all can enjoy a safe and welcoming environment. The Sisters of the Sacred Hearts have lent us a series of pictures that recall when they owned the building and ran a school on this property. The building was used on Jan. 17 for a reception following the Red Mass. (Reported by Ann Hannan)
AIEA
St. Elizabeth Parish
St. Elizabeth’s “Most Wanted” … RCIA is trying something new this year. As we approach the period of Purification and Enlightenment, the parish bulletin will feature one or two photos of the soon-to-be Elect and the Candidates, with a brief caption, written by the Elect or Candidate. They were asked to include something “interesting” about themselves and their journey of faith in St. Elizabeth’s. We hope that putting faces to names will enable the parish to get to know them even better and will be encouraged to keep them in prayer. Pictured from left are Kirsten Burnett, candidate for Confirmation; Darryl Mapusaga, candidate for Full Initiation; and Constance Teixeira candidate for Full Communion. Don’t they look happy? They’re keeping their “eyes on the Prize” – life everlasting in Christ Jesus our Lord. (Reported by Linda Cacpal; photos by Ed Taguba)
MAKAKILO
St. Jude Parish
On Dec. 8, parishioners celebrated Father Joseph Diaz’s birthday with two celebrations. In the morning, he was treated to breakfast at the Perry and Price morning show at John Dominis. In the evening, after the 5 p.m. Mass, we had a potluck dinner, where there was a piata, and a Pirates of the Caribbean game (where Father Cletus scored big!). This was a very memorable ‘first’ birthday for Father Joe. (Reported by Grace Balderas)
NUUANU
St. Stephen Parish
In the holiday spirit of caring and giving, our CCD students gathered weekly in the parish hall after their Sunday classes, making Christmas cards and preparing gifts for our homebound parishioners and our kupuna residents at a nursing home in Nuuanu Valley. CCD staff and parents helped the children stuff colorful Christmas bags with donated toiletries. The children assisted in distributing the gifts at the nursing home on Dec. 23 after the Sunday morning Mass. The visit to the nursing home was a wonderful experience for everyone, especially seeing the happy surprise and smiles on the faces of our kupuna at being remembered during the holiday season. Pictured are some of the students, staff and their parents. … Our eucharistic ministers, who visit and distribute communion to our homebound, also took their gifts to them on Dec. 23. Mahalo to all for your warm and caring participation. (Reported by Ginny Jordan)
KAPAA
St. Catherine School
The school teachers practice fire safety with the Kauai Fire Department. Each teacher used a fire extinguisher to put out a controlled fire. Even Father Edgar Villanueva joined in the fun. Now we all know how to use the fire extinguishers hanging in our classrooms. Thank you Kauai Fire Department! … The school is also holding its annual Rummage Sale on Jan. 26 and 27 in Coyle Hall. Come early for the best selection. We have televisions, office equipment, baby items, household items, clothes and lots more. Donations of gently used items are being accepted until Jan. 25. Proceeds will benefit the arts for our school. (Reported by Celina Haigh)
HILO
St. Joseph High
Eighth grader Christian Borris won the St. Joseph Elementary and Junior High School level championship round of the 20th annual National Geographic Bee on Jan. 11 in the school library. The winning question was: “A United States island territory, where the official languages are English and Chamorro has the motto, ‘Where America’s day begins’. Name the territory.” Borris correctly answered “Guam.” He was awarded a gold medal and special certificate, and has earned the right to take a written exam to qualify for the state level bee on April 4. The winner of the state bee will join the national competition in Washington, D.C., May 20-21, hosted by Alex Trebek of Jeopardy. The school’s runner-up was fifth grader Sarina Wyrick. Also participating in the final round was Stephanie Tait, 8th grade, Acacia Zodrow, 6th grade, and Nathan Ducasse, 5th grade. These and others in the preliminary rounds, learned that knowing places on a map is only the first step in learning geography. The National Geographic Bee encourages students to learn to “think like a geographer” and to “understand the major patterns that influence our physical environment, culture, and economy.” (Reported by Rowena Austin)
KEKAHA
St. Theresa Parish
With Catholic schools throughout the nation, we will celebrate, “Catholic Schools Week — Light the Way!” next week. On Sunday, Jan. 27, the students will participate in the 8:30 a.m. Mass as lectors, altar servers, gift bearers and ushers along with the children’s choir singing in joyful unison. A special pancake breakfast will follow Mass in the parish hall. … Student Day is Jan. 28, where for a $1 fee, students will be allowed to dress in the school colors, green and gold. The money will be sent to our sister mission in Mississippi to purchase needed school supplies. Tuesday is Community Service Day. Career Day is Wednesday, Jan. 30, when Mayor Bryan Baptiste will visit to speak to the students. On Thursday, Jan. 31, our wonderful Franciscan Sisters of Christian Charity, Sister Marie Bernadette, Sister Mary Ann, Sister Hannah and Sister Delores will be joined by Sister Florence Remata and Father Edison giving talks on vocations to the students. And last, but not least, Friday, Feb. 1, is Volunteer Recognition Day where volunteers will be recognized at the all school Mass at 8 a.m. and meet with student hosts in the cafeteria for refreshments and recognition. The week will culminate with an outdoor movie night and food booths at 6 p.m. (Reported by Chantal A. Duarte)
HILO
St. Joseph Grade School
Seven students were awarded Border’s gift certificates as first prizes for their grade level in the school’s We the People Book Shelf Pursuit of Happiness essay contest. Winners were kindergartener Liana Lee, first grader Alyssa Faletoi, 2nd grader Elisabeth Pezzuto, 3rd grader Kauionalani Serrao, 4th grader Amber Rogers, 5th grader Joseph Bayola, and 6th grader Jayla Nakamura. These winning essays and other top entries will be on display during the school’s open house on Jan. 26, and during the Student Showcase/Cardinal Café on the evening of Jan. 31. The contest was held in conjunction with the award of 19 free books to the school by the National Endowment for the Humanities and the American Library Association. Picture in the front row, from left, are Alyssa Faletoi and Liana Lee. In the back row, from left, are Jayla Nakamura, Amber Rogers, Kau’iolani Serrao and Elisabeth Pezzuto. Missing is Joseph Bayola. (Reported by Rowena Austria)
HONOLULU
Star of the Sea School
The Ministry of Altar Servers gained a significant number of students at our Friday School Mass. After many weeks of preparation, practice and a workshop, 11 students were ready to serve. As their parents joined them on the altar with Brother Salvador, who prepared them and principal Carola Souza, each one was given a special acknowledgement and blessing. Students, from left, are Jeremiah Bright, Keen Ching, Cortez Feria, Ellie Ramirez, Brianne Nakasone, Danielle Gersonde, Kristina Kealoha, Austin Edwards, Chasie Hirakawa, Ryan Johnson and Nicholas Wong. (Reported by Cheri Rauckhorst)
KAHULUI
Christ the King School
During the Christmas season, Mrs. Paulette Davis’ 3rd grade class participated in writing “Dear Santa” letters published in the Maui News. Shortly thereafter, Mrs. Davis received a call from Maile and Casey Tolentino of Wailuku, Maui. They shared their desire to fulfill a student’s wish for a Wii, after reading her letter to Santa. May God bless those who continue to bring joy to others! Shown in the photo taken in the third grade classroom on Dec. 21 are, front, Tayler Wightman (and her Wii), back, Casey and Maile Tolentino, Paulette Davis, third grade teacher and Bernadette Lopez, principal. (Reported by Bernadette Lopez)
WAILUKU
St. Anthony of Padua Parish
The Misa de Gallo novena of Masses before Christmas 2007 was a huge success. More than 200 people were in daily attendance at 5 a.m. Mass. Planning for this event will take place earlier this year. The 2008 calendar year brings up plans for several months. Father Jerry Pleva is offering a Lenten opportunity for six Mondays at 6:30-8:30 p.m. starting Feb. 4. The program is for those would like to be more sensitive to God through various forms of prayer. … St. Anthony Grade School is accepting applications for grades k-6 for the fall semester and St. Anthony Preschool has an opening for a teacher or teacher’s assistant. (Reported by Miriam Kahalekai)
MAKAWAO
St. Joseph School
On Jan. 14, the entire school body united under the church steeple to share in their Christmas musical, “Angels, Lambs, Ladybugs & Fireflies,” written by Betty Hager and Fred Bock and coordinated by principal and music director Beth Wills. It depicted the birth of Christ as seen through the eyes of God’s creatures. The children did an amazing job and each student participated. Whether it was one line, a musical prelude by the preschool students, or a representation of one of the nativity characters, the spotlight was shared by all. The church was a fitting gathering place to renew and relive the birth of Jesus Christ. Thank you to the students, staff, parents and parish for a wonderful reminder of the gift of Christmas in this new year. God bless you all. (Reported by Helen Souza, photo by Moani Wagner)
MOLOKAI
Molokai Catholic Community
Thanksgiving Celebration! In traditional fashion, the assembly was called to worship by James and Charles Spencer blowing conch shells. Not content with their usual prayers and responses, the Mass was enriched with the Hawaiian language. The assembly recited the Lord’s Prayer in Hawaiian and sang in Hawaiian both the “Holy Holy” and the “Lamb of God” composed by Sacred Hearts Father Albert Garcia. Prominent among the leaders were Brianne Naeole and Virgilio Torres who recited the opening prayer of thanksgiving in Hawaiian and English. Surely, our joyous prayers must still be echoing in Heaven. … Adult Faith Formation! In accordance with the call of the U.S. Catholic bishops, a program of adult education centered at our catechetical vision and practice is being presented by Sacred Hearts Father Clyde Guerrero. Four weekly sessions were climaxed by a penitential liturgy before Christmas. More sessions were scheduled for after the holidays. Each session had a presentation followed by small group discussion. Interest was lively and attendances surprisingly large! (Reported by Jersula Manaba)
KALIHI KAI
St. Anthony Church
The St. Anthony Filipino Catholic Club installed its new officers at the church on Jan. 19. The 2008-2009 officers are: spiritual director, La Salette Father Augustine Uthuppu; associate spiritual director, Sister Victoria Lavente; president, Ben Cabreros; vice president, Erlinda Tomas; recording secretary, Carmen Cabreros; corresponding secretary, Filomena Alhambra; treasurer, Prudencio Pilar; marshals, Rodrigo Alhambra and Lorenzo Fiesta; delegates, Vivien Pilar, Leonard Fontanilla and Fortunato Sipin. (Reported by Christita Sison)
HONOLULU
Sts. Peter and Paul
Phase 2 of the roof work began on Jan. 14. Removal of existing layers of roofing and applying the new roof and air conditioners require all kinds of equipment in the parking lot affecting the 7 a.m. and noon daily Masses. The weekend Masses should not be affected! How long will this take? The answer is, we don’t know. With no unforeseen circumstances, we’re anticipating the work should be done by Feb. 29, maybe sooner or it may take longer. Please pardon the inconvenience; we definitely need to complete the roof and the air conditioner will be a welcome. Mahalo! (From the parish bulletin)
KULIOUOU
Holy Trinity Parish
We will have a Charismatic healing Mass Jan. 30 in the church with sacramental Anointing of the Sick for those who are seriously ill. If you know of anyone who has cancer or other life threatening illnesses please bring them. Prayers will also be available for those who need a blessing for strength or healing. Father Gary Secor is the celebrant. Praise and worship begins at 7 p.m. (From the parish bulletin)
WAIANAE
Sacred Heart Parish
After a long day of events, Selu and Timuani came to help and sing with the Samoan Choir for the Midnight Mass. After all that singing and waiting for Mass to finish, they both were too tired to sing anymore, they sat there and fell asleep waiting to go home to a nice comfortable bed. (Reported by Gilbert and Linda Jose)
WAIALUA
St. Michael Parish
The religious education groups and the Mission of Sts. Peter and Paul are sponsoring a sale of delicious baked items on Jan. 20. Proceeds will help fund the youth group toward their trip to the 10th International World Youth Day in Sydney, Australia, in July. The bake sale will be after each Mass here and at the mission. We welcome donated baked goods which may be brought that morning and given to Jane Hewitt or Marie Munguia at St. Michael and Carol Medeiros at Sts. Peter and Paul. Kokua our youth group and help fund their trip. (From the parish bulletin)
WAIMANALO
St. George Parish
Our Misa de Gallo celebrating nine-day dawn Masses, Dec. 16-24, was a memorable spiritual journey. The Filipino Catholic Community, led by Erlinda Sarvida, invited all parishioners to share the culture, heritage and tradition, and it was a great success. Many parishioners rose early before dawn to gather with our pastor Father Al Rebuldela who taught us about this special celebration for the 5 a.m. Masses. After each Mass we shared breakfast royale: Filipino delicacies of bico and lumpia with coffee, juice, cocoa, various fruits, cakes, pies, rice, bacon, sausages, eggs, etc. On the ninth day we had the ultimate Filipino dish: roast pork with the usual breakfast feast! The parishioners wore their finest on the last day to celebrate our Lord’s birthday in style. Misa de Gallo brought neighbors together singing and glorifying the Lord. The choir was directed by Ronnie Alce who taught them since October to sing rousing, spirit-filled songs in Ilocano, Visayan and Tagalog. For many it was our first Misa de Gallo experience. Our hearts were touched and moved by the Holy Spirit and our faith grew deeper as we sacrificed each morning to meet our Lord. It was a precious experience blessed with God’s love, and everyone celebrating the light of Christ together with love, joy, faith and hope. (Reported by Gina Quimpo)
KAILUA
St. John Vianney Parish
Our parish will again offer a six-week series entitled “Catholics Returning Home” beginning Jan. 29 and continuing Feb. 5, 12, 19, 26 and March 11. These sessions are for non-practicing Catholics who are seeking answers to questions about returning to the church. If you or someone you know has been away from the church, please consider joining us or inviting your friends to join us. The sessions will be at 7:30 p.m. in the Parish Center Lounge. (From the parish bulletin)
HONOLULU
Sacred Hearts Academy
Students recently attended a youth leadership conference focusing on ways to give back to their communities while serving others. The conference, held in conjunction with the Aloha Chapter National Philanthropy Day 2007, involved donors, board members, CEOs, volunteers and business leaders. The theme of the day, “Change the World with a Giving Heart,” encouraged community leaders and young people to give back to the community. The ultimate goal of the nation-wide effort, coordinated by the Association of Fundraising Professionals, is advancing philanthropy through education and advocacy. Pictured are participants Chelsea Lei Rabanal, Chelsie Neves, Celeste O’Brien, Nicole Biete, Marnie Kazarian and Betty White, head of school. (Reported by Hayley Matson-Mathes)
HONOLULU
Holy Family Catholic Academy
In Dec. 2007, the seventh grade class participated in a unique project while studying about the causes of the American Revolution. The students had to create fictitious conversations between two or three historical figures. Within this dialogue, the students revealed the setting, biography and relevance of these important persons. The students also had to dress as their historic figures. The costumes were very creative and the students really took their performance to heart, bringing to life the spirit of the American Revolution! (Reported by Jocelyn Fernandes)
KAILUA
St. John Vianney School
Our school has developed its own Santa tradition. Instead of Santa bringing gifts to the children, our students bring gifts to Santa! Everyone has their picture with Santa and their gifts are then presented to our parish giving tree for distribution to needy children throughout Oahu. The students look forward to it each year, and it’s a wonderful lesson in the blessings you receive when you give from the heart to those less fortunate. … We want to congratulate our girls Catholic School League volleyball team for once again earning the western division title! Our third quarter has begun and we’re very busy here at SJV! (Reported by Annie Chee)
KANEOHE
St. Ann Grade School
Our Model Schools kicked off the American Heart Association’s Jump Rope for Heart and Hoops for Heart Event on Jan. 14. Special guests included the Kamehameha Schools Jump Team who demonstrated jump rope skills. Our school had its very own Basketball Demo Team, pictured here, who showed off their basketball skills. The team consisted of 8th graders, Kamana Pimental, Megan Kinoshita, Keala Ostrowski, Jessie Gandauli and 6th graders, Nicholas and William Young. There was even a half court basketball game where the boys challenged the girls. Everyone cheered and had a great time, especially when the girls won 3-1! The students will use the rest of the month to collect funds for this event for the American Heart Association. (Reported by Kuulei Halemano)
HONOLULU
Holy Trinity School
Here are some of our students proudly holding our school banner just in time for our open house on Jan. 27, noon-2 p.m. Our students are proud of their school and all the wonderful happenings on campus. (Reported by Colleen Nakama)
WAIPAHU
St. Joseph School
The school’s campus ministry program is out in full force! As part of our teaching on social justice, staff and students go out into the community to help others. It is a requirement for all students in grades 7 and 8 to do at least one community outreach per year and write a reflection on their experience. We have been going to the Kakaako Homeless Shelter for two years now. We are currently working on the formation of working with those in a hospice program. Pictured here are staff and students at the Kakaako Homeless Shelter in December. (Reported by Keala Kia)
HONOLULU
St. Patrick School
Mrs. Hilary Lambert and the students of 4B are participating in the “Read to Feed” Program, a reading motivation/service learning program. Children are inspired to read more books for pleasure, while raising money through sponsored reading to help end world hunger and improve the environment. Educators and parents use the issues raised by Read to Feed to address topics such as the root causes of hunger and poverty and depletion of the earth’s resources. They’ll be inspired as they learn how solving one problem helps to solve others. This is just one of many service learning programs that our school supports. (Reported by Lynn Murao)
HONOLULU
St. Theresa School
Students in grade 3A enjoyed creating greeting cards for Keiki Cards using recycled calendar pictures. Keiki Cards is a nonprofit organization. Their mission is to send handmade greeting cards to children who have life threatening illnesses. The third graders were happy to put their talents to work knowing that they could bring a smile to an ailing child. Throughout the year, Mrs. Noreen Ueda, their teacher, plans projects that help her students learn the true meaning of aloha as they help the less fortunate. Pictured, from left, are Apryl Lactaoen, Adrianne Del Rosario and Ryan Aquinaldo. … Our Annual Craft and Fun Fair is Feb. 23, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Limited space is available for craft booths. Call 536-4703 for application for booth space. Come and enjoy beautiful crafts, white elephant sale, ono food and much more! (Reported by Sister Marian Muehlbauer, CSJ)
KANEOHE
St. Ann School ELC
The Early Learning Center held its first “Celebrating the Spirit of Christmas” event on Dec. 19. In honor of Advent, the students, faculty and staff gathered on the garden lanai to sing Christmas songs and discuss the true meaning of Christmas. Later, a special guest greeted the children. Our very own Father Benny Kosasih, also known as the “Advent Angel,” said a special prayer before passing out new books to each child. Here he gives a Christmas book to 3-year-old Vincent Nguyen. (Reported by Kuulei Halemano)
WAIALUA
St. Michael School
The school’s annual Christmas program was Dec. 20. Hotdog meals were served prior to the program to help the students and family members get ready. The audience was treated with songs, dances and even an adaptation of the nativity scene, which was enacted by our very own student council officers and representatives. As usual, our hall was overflowing with proud parents, grandparents, and other family members with cameras galore to capture the moment. The students in Pre-K through 8th did a wonderful job. We hope all the students and families had a great Christmas and are blessed with a happy and joyous new year. (Reported by Jennifer Holmberg)