KEAUKAHA

Malia Puka O Kalani Parish

Following Mass here, parishioners and Father John Mbinda had a May Crowning ceremony in honor of the Blessed Mother. The crown was provided by Mary Alice Matsumoto. (Reported by Natalie M.)

HAWI

Sacred Heart Parish

On the first Sunday in May at the Children’s Mass, we had the first crowning of our Blessed Mother Mary. Religious education students and ladies presented many different flowers. At the end of the procession with flowers, Kara Marquez crowned Mary. On the second Sunday in May, Mary was again crowned at the 7:30 a.m. Mass. … The Religious Education Teachers Religious Store was open for business with reasonably priced gifts for all religious occasions. … Evie Adams extended an open invitation for “Ladies Bible Study” which met for the first time on the first Sunday of May. … Congratulations to Stan and Renee Gonsalves, Kohala High School softball coaches. They led their girls softball team to a first time ever Kohala BIIF Division II Softball Championship. (Reported by Lee Rivera)

PAHOA

Sacred Heart Parish

So many times we forget how to say the simple words “Thank You.” As we all go to church on Sundays, we enter a clean church building and clean grounds. We may or may not take these things for granted, but behind the scenes of every parish are “silent heroes” who do their loving tasks of maintaining a beautiful parish without any complaints. Sure every parish has its problems, but this cycle of love these wonderful people do week after week should never be forgotten. Many people are involved in our parish; however, I would like to focus on two — Andre and Mila Chabot. They recently became a part of our parish family. Andre is involved with the physical environment committee and Mila is a hospitality minister. At present, they and others are painting the rectory. They are two wonderful people who work tirelessly in our parish. (As you can see it was difficult to have Mila pose for the camera.) It is a privilege to have them in our family. In every parish, people respond to needs in many different ways. I would therefore at this time say to all these wonderful people the two simple words of “thank you.” (Reported by Steve Torres)

MOUNTAIN VIEW

 

St. Theresa Parish

On April 26, Bishop Larry Silva confirmed 19 youths and adults from Sacred Heart Parish, Pahoa; Holy Rosary Mission, Keaau; and St. Theresa Parish, Mountain View. Father Salvador Bringas, pastor of St. Theresa, hosted the Mass and Rite of Confirmation. The confirmandi were (Sacred Heart) Therese Adkins, Tevin Ebanez, Bryan Miguel, Manuel Munoz, Laurence Walsh, Patrick Myles Walsh, Nathan Walsh and Jenni Tadeo; (Holy Rosary) Jessalyn Albano, Erin Carvalho and Diana Subia; (St. Theresa) Ben Cachola, Cody Cross, Wayne Kabasawa, Arline Kabasawa, Eileen Pomroy, ShawneeLynn Pomroy, Ikaika Carrillo-Rodrigues and Elroy Baptist-Rodrigues. Celebrating the Eucharist and Rite of Confirmation with the youth and the adult confirmandi were their sponsors, families, friends and other members of the three parishes who showed that, though we are individual members of the church, together we make up the One Body of Christ. Deacon Jerry Nunogawa and master of ceremonies Cecil Farin assisted the bishop and Father Bringas. Craig Carvalho led a choir of musicians and singers from the three parishes. Afterward, a pot-luck supper was held in the parish hall. The celebration was organized by catechists from the three parishes: Jo Ann Suttle, DiAnn and David Logan, Juanita Ramirez, Ruth Statler, Roxanne Betts, Helena Wright and Marc Pomerleau. (Reported by Marc Pomerleau)

KAILUA-KONA

St. Michael Parish

These children received their First Holy Communion at the 9 a.m. Mass on April 27. In the front row, from left, are Rheanne Gadot, Jeriah Cacal, Kaelyn Amarino, Isaac Armenta, McKayla Ventura, Michael Brunson, Emily Fong, Spencer Smolen, Lailan Uy, Shanessa Alves, Christina Silvio and Anthony Ramirez Jr. In the back row, from left, are Zachary Kay, Zachary Kaiwi, Kenny Do, Leilani Friels, Jorge Malagon-Romero, Father Konelio Faletoi, Mario Malagon-Romero, Christopher Kam, Paulette Abaire, Zachary Chaikin and Tiana Gilbert. (Reported by Shirley David)

HILO

St. Joseph Parish

It was with open hearts that we welcomed Bishop Larry Silva April 26-27 who stayed at the St. Joseph rectory while journeying to other parish communities around the East Hawaii Vicariate to celebrate the Sacrament of Confirmation. Twenty six Confirmation candidates received the third Sacrament of Initiation here at the 6 p.m. Mass on April 27. The inside of the church looked beautiful with two large red banners in the sanctuary proclaiming “Come Holy Spirit” and numerous bouquets of red anthuriums in front of and behind the altar and around the church. Catechist Rochelle Augustin presented the candidates to the bishop who came down from the sanctuary to speak directly to the candidates. He encouraged them to “touch others with Christ’s love.” (Reported by Joyce C. Saenz)

KALIHI VALLEY

Our Lady of the Mount

Twelve children received their First Holy Communion on May 4. The girls wore beautiful white dresses. The boys wore black slacks and white shirts. The families were happy and excited. They took many pictures. The children will receive their gifts and certificates at the year-end celebration on May 25 after Mass at 10 a.m. in the parish hall. (Reported by Lucy Poueu)

KALAHEO

Holy Cross Parish

Teenagers from Waimea High School and Kauai High School belonging to the parish and Sacred Heart Mission Youth and Confirmation Group from Kalaheo re-enacted the Passion of Our Lord on Good Friday at 3 p.m. Of the more than 50 Confirmation teens, only 18 committed to the 10 days of two-hour rehearsals. Pictured here is the crucifixion scene. In the foreground, Thomas Lang as the Disciple that Jesus loved, and Averie Ann Soto as Mary, the Mother of Jesus, gaze on the crucified Jesus portrayed by Allan Villaflor. In the background are the two thieves, Daniel DeGracia, left and Austin Cruz. (Reported by Shirley Ann Kauahi, Della Silva and Judy Cabanting)

LANAI CITY

Sacred Hearts Parish

On Sunday, May 4, Bishop Larry Silva honored our parish by his presence and administered the Sacrament of Confirmation to three candidates who faithfully attended religious education classes to prepare themselves for this honor. Sharah Myers, Donicka Ozoa and Michael Pader, under the leadership of Tom and Sheril Butt, were ready to receive the Seal of the Holy Spirit. A luncheon followed the Mass. Pictured here with Bishop Larry and Father Ferdinand Ragasa are the three candidates, Michael, Sharah and Donicka. (Reported by Eleanor Ozoa)

KAPAA

St. Catherine Parish

Father Alberto Silagan is pictured (center) at the recent commissioning of the parish’s new pastoral council. After being introduced, commissioned and blessed by Father Alberto, members took a few moments to meet and chat with parishioners. The 2007 Pastoral Council members are Michael Chandler, Michael Cruz, John Constantino, Rebecca Bernabe, Mark Bonilla, Craig DeCosta, Sonya Elizalde, George Kalaiwaa, Betty Matsumura, Vicky Medeiros, Donna Palmer, Jennifer Relacion, Larry Rosa, Joey Sokei and Larry Wieland. (Reported by Carmen Nakasone)

KAHULUI

Christ the King Parish

Filipinos are famous for their celebrations. One festivity celebrated in the Philippines in May is the Santacruzan, commemorating Queen Helena’s search for the Holy Cross. Legend tells us that Queen Helena, at the old age of 75 and around 300 years after Christ died, went in search of the Holy Cross at Calvary. She discovered three crosses, so she instructed one of her sick servants to lie on all three. The one on which the servant was miraculously healed was believed to be the Holy Cross. The cross was later housed in a church built in Golgotha in Israel by her son Constantine the Great. The anniversary of Queen Helena’s discovery is May 3. Today in many places in the Philippines, Santacruzan is celebrated with elaborate parades or processions with queens representing the Blessed Mother, historical beauties, and biblical characters. The queen representing Queen Helena usually leads the procession. On May 17, at 5 p.m., our parish will celebrate Santacruzan in conjunction of our church’s 75th anniversary. A nine-day novena (rosary) will take place before May 17, beginning on Thursday, May 8, 9, 12, to 16, at 6:30 pm, on May 10 at 4 p.m. and May 11 at 5 p.m. The rosary will be led by our Christ the King Youth and their advisors. Fresh flowers may be offered to our Blessed Mother during novena nights. Everyone is invited. (Reported by Carol Ursua and Jasmine Higa and Lucy Peros)

WAIHEE

St. Ann Parish

“I’m so blessed, My Lord, I can see You” was the theme of this year’s Celebration of First Holy Communion on May 10. We congratulate our six Holy Communicants Stephen Paahana, Noah Magbual, Tara Nobriga, Khaitlyn Serrano, Grace Rocetes and Angelica Ventura. Father James Orsini was the celebrant. Special mahalo to Aunty Becky Nobriga, Aunty Kathy Texeira, parents, grandparents, families, the parish community and religious education instructors. Together we have prepared these children for this special occasion and now ask Our Lord to help us continue to be a supportive community and active in their journey of faith, Lord hear our prayer. (Reported by Frances Asuncion)

WAILUKU

St. Anthony of Padua Parish

On May 24 at 5 p.m., Bishop Larry Silva will confer the Sacrament of Confirmation on 37 candidates who have studied under Chiree Souza for the past two years. Congratulations to Gabrielle Alexander, Phillip Amarillo, Megan Andres, Jarrin Arakaki, Michael Bayle, Benjamin Bello, Daniel Borges, Bryan Bulosan, Lia Cabacungan, Heidi Corson, Jandee Ferguson, Michael Ferreira, Diana Foronda, Deni Gannon, Taena Garcia, Jonie Gascon, Kapono Gaspar-Fujihara, Ariel Guerrero, Sarah Guerrero, Ryan Alika Ham-Deponte, Sarah Marie Ishikawa, Tabetha Kaaloa, Naea Kalehuawehe, Courtney Kaupalolo, Anthony King, Brittnee Lau, Charlene Pacubas, Cheyna Pagatpatan, Roxanne Paragas, Kelsey Soriano, Rachel Uehara, Cameron Yip, Jordan Kahalekai Bermoy, Ted Dodson, Caitlin Aningat, Bree Aguinaldo and Alex Wong. … On May 23, 23 preschoolers under the direction of Carlene Santos will participate in a graduation ceremony in the Parish Center. (Reported by Miriam Kahalekai)

HONOLULU

Cathedral of Our Lady of Peace

Our parish begins its 2008-09 religious education classes on April 27. Ninety-five students enrolled in the kindergarten through high school classes. Classes meet Sunday morning prior to the 9 a.m. liturgy. Parent Meetings are held the first Sunday of the month. (Reported by Ann Hannan)

KULIOUOU

Holy Trinity Parish

Barnes and Noble Ala Moana hosted the Holy Trinity School Book Fair and unveiling of The Damien Mosaic on May 10 (Blessed Damien’s Feast Day) from 3 to 6 p.m. Peggy Chun and the Holy Trinity School students were there to share their miraculous journey together. The children demonstrated how the mosaic was created. That day, a percent of all sales were given to the school. (From the parish bulletin)

WAIKIKI

St. Augustine Parish

On April 19 at the Mandalay Restaurant, Sacred Hearts Father Lane K. Akiona and three others were honored by the Pacific Justice and Reconciliation Center of Honolulu at their annual luncheon. They received the 2008 Peacemaker and Justiceseeker Award. (Reported by the parish, photo by Ann Dankulich)

ALA MOANA

Sts. Peter and Paul Parish

Our religious education year has come to an end. We had a great year with over 60 children registered. I would like to thank all our catechists for a job well done. They are a living testimony to our faith, and a great example for our students. They are Celerina D. Gabriel, Reina Souza, Shanlee Gusman (aide), Rheena Alajar (aide), Yvonne Toma, Davina Pangelinan, John Dreher, Kaelin-Jae Gusman, Keith Febrero and Jazmond Casteuano. (From the parish bulletin)

KALIHI

St. John the Baptist Parish

Second graders and some upper graders joyfully received their first Holy Communion on April 27. Parents, guardians and relatives joined the first communicants on this special day. (Reported by Bertha Guerrero)

MILILANI

St. John Apostle and Evangelist

Led by youth directors Sky-ann Macadangdang of this parish and Ozzie Jaramillo of St. Joseph, youth from four parishes collaborated to work and serve on a Confirmation Retreat at St. Anthony Retreat Center. Fifty participants from five parishes: St. John Apostle and Evangelist, Resurrection of the Lord, St. Joseph, Immaculate Conception and St. Rita came together to experience an AGAPE retreat on March 28-30. In the spirit-filled retreat, participants from the various parishes came as strangers on Friday night; but as the weekend progressed, they bonded as one family in Christ. Much appreciation and thanks are extended to Al and Geri Simbahon (St. Joseph), Deacon Wally and Gwen Mitsui (St. John A and E) who coordinated AGAPE retreat #80. (Reported by Gwen Mitsui)

WAHIAWA

Our Lady of Sorrows Parish

Forty liturgical ministers attended training sessions here April 25-26. They included ushers, cross bearers, lectors and eucharistic ministers, as well as those in bereavement and music ministries, funeral and wedding planning. The principal instructor was Regina Pfeiffer, assistant professor of religious studies at Chaminade University, pictured here instructing lectors on Saturday. (Reported by Jack Kampfer)

AIEA

St. Elizabeth Parish

The love of God is poured out in our hearts … On April 11-13, 29 parish young people abandoned themselves to the direction of the Holy Spirit and their youth leaders at Camp Timberline for Young Christian Life Weekend #34. Coming from diverse backgrounds, families and interests, they encountered the living God in his human face, Jesus Christ. Some have never been on a weekend retreat and perhaps have never taken the time to open themselves to prayer and reflection. It was a time to acknowledge their trials and difficulties but also a time to acknowledge the hope they have in trusting Jesus to always be with them, guiding them, challenging them to take courage. After the retreat, they celebrated their experience with a youth Mass and a meal. The ongoing challenge is to continue in a life of prayer, encouraging each other to walk in the footsteps of Jesus. As our Holy Father said to youth and seminarians at St. Joseph Seminary at Dunwoodie on April 19: “What about today? What are you seeking? Listen for God’s whisper (in your life). The hope which never disappoints is Jesus Christ.” We take joy and hope in the young face of the church and pray for them. (Reported by Linda Cacpal; photo provided by Carolyn Savea)

WAIALUA

St. Michael Parish

Tents Needed! A new family has moved in at the Mokuleia Beach Park and is in need of tents. If anyone has tent(s) you don’t need and is willing to donate, please call or see Father Johnathan. (From the parish bulletin)

KANEOHE

St. Ann Parish

 At 7 p.m. on April 19, guests were welcomed into a beautifully decorated dining extravaganza for the parish’s annual social event, the Taste of St. Ann’s. Soft music and the delicious aroma of the many dishes prepared by parishioners and sponsors enticed the hungry crowd. Committee cochairs Malu Kamanu and Clarie Thompson were pleased to report the net income for the event as $7,946.36, all going to the Capital Campaign Fund. Many thanks to everyone who bought tickets, made donations, cooked all the delicious foods, and served and cleaned up. Pictured is Sacred Hearts Father Bert Lock continuing his long standing tradition of preparing his family specialty, beef tongue. (Reported by Patricia Pimental)

PEARL CITY

Our Lady of Good Counsel Parish

Many tears of joy and sorrow were shed this weekend as Capuchin Franciscan Father Jack Niland bid farewell to the parishioners. Father Jack returned to New York last week for medical treatment. We rejoice that Father Jack is well on his way to recovery, but are saddened that he is leaving after nine years of service to the Pearl City Community. Parishioners stood in long lines after every Mass during this past weekend to thank Father Jack for his inspiration, friendship and guidance over the years. “I donate food every month to our outreach food pantry because of one of Father Jack’s homilies,” shared one parishioner. “He reminded me that Jesus said, ‘If you love me, feed my people.’ I really took it to heart.” Another tearful parishioner shared her love for Father Jack, “He is the main reason I came back to the church.” Another shared, “He literally brought me closer to God.” Father Jack will be leaving our parish, but will never be forgotten. It is perhaps the youth of the parish and the parish school who will best perpetuate the work he began here. (Reported by Elaine Yamashita)

KAILUA

St. Anthony Parish

May Day Queen Lehua La‘a and King Maclen Mokulehua crown the Blessed Mother Mary and honor her with na lei at the school’s courtyard celebration held on May 2. Students from each grade level performed dances from around the world as parents, extended families and parishioners took in the festivities. A well deserved mahalo goes to two staff members who served as the May Day co-chairpersons — Sharon Chang and Kepa Stern. Because of their long hours of hard work, planning and coordination May Day was a huge success!" (Reported by Joyce Pollock)

ENCHANTED LAKE

St. John Vianney Parish

AARP will offer a two-day driver safety program from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. on May 13 and 15 in the parish center basement. This is a comprehensive course designed for the mature driver. Fee is $10. Please call the instructor, Larry Valdez at 262-7806 for more information. (From the parish bulletin)

KAHULUI

Christ the King School

Tara-Ann Pacubas, Ria Natividad, Sanae Nakoa, Carly Perez and Taylor Wightman prepare for our school’s May Day Program “Maui No Ka Oi, Maui is the Best,” on May 2. The girls are part of the school’s Hawaiiana Club led by Aunty Marie Biga. The students sang and danced to music by Maui musicians Amy Hanaialii Gilliom, Willie K, Pono, Uncle Wayne and Marty Dread. (Reported by Melissa Ramos)

KEKAHA

St. Theresa School

We held another outstanding May Day Program on May 9 with the beautiful Kekaha sunset in the background. All classes performed beautifully with an especially entertaining Tahitian performance by the first and second graders. Queen Angelica Tran and King Jae Allen Delos Reyes reigned over the evening’s festivities that also included an onolicious food booth. … Culminating the weekend was the May Crowning of Mother Mary at the 8:30 a.m. Mass on Mother’s day followed by a Mother’s Day breakfast buffet spearheaded by our parish youth commission under the direction of leaders Raelene Malama and Leilani San Agustin. A delicious buffet was prepared by Kauai Community College chef/instructor Martina Hildorfer assisted by the parish youth. The parish thanks everyone for all their contribution of time, talent and treasure! (Submitted by Chantal A. Duarte)

HONOLULU

Holy Family Catholic Academy

Thirty-seven students reverently received their first Holy Communion at the 9 a.m. Sunday Mass on April 27 celebrated by Msgr. Terry Watanabe and Deacon Fernando Ona. Although quite nervous, the students did a wonderful job of processing in, listening attentively during the Mass, joining Father on the altar during the consecration and then actually receiving the Body and Blood of Christ for the first time from Father Terry. The children ended the beautiful celebration by singing the lovely song, “Welcome to the Family,” and gesturing the lyrics in honor of their newfound place in the Catholic parish community of God. It was a very special day for the following students: Emma Asuncion, Loel Calaro, Katie Heck, Dimitri Mahoney, Nadine Malazarte, Magellan McCartney, Colby Narciso, Jennifer Sam, Tess Sandoval, Sarah Tano, Bronson Tucay, Patrick Balbas, Rachel Ho, Riley Iwanaga, Asia Jhun, Ashley Kjorness, Kristen Koike, Madison Mato, Samual Meyer, Jack Montgomery, Payton Mulleitner, Leilani Ngoap, Lauren Sunada, Ayla Tago, Kalli-Ann Takafuji, Aarin Young, Conal Brady, Natalie Cariello, Christian Cristobal, Marissa Daligcon, Ashely Denhard, Chantel Montayre, Carson Risdon, Thomas Valdez, Devin Waller, Liam Boroff and Carolina Rios. (Reported by Jocelyn Fernandes)

MAKAWAO

St. Joseph School

La Salette Fathers Stevanus Suharna and Santiago Ner donned hula skirts and danced the “Hukilau” at the St. Joseph Feast May Day Program. At special request of the pastor, or “Father Sunny” as students call him, parent and parishioner Moani Wagner instructed both new students in the hula. They then performed it live at the opening of the St. Joseph Feast taking any donations given to benefit the school. “It was something I wanted to do for the school,” Father Sunny said after two “hana hou” renditions. It was a pleasant surprise and addition to the May Day Program. On behalf of the St. Joseph School Ohana, thank you Father Stevanus and Father Santiago for all you do! (Reported by Helen Souza)

HONOLULU

Maryknoll Grade School

Congratulations to the boys intermediate golf team for winning the ILH Class A Small Schools Championships in regular season play. The Spartan Golf Team then qualified five boys and two girls for the individual championship on April 8, at the Hawaii Kai Golf Course — Executive Course (par 3). Earning bronze medals were eighth graders Nichele Wada and Zachary Hironaka, who each placed fifth in their respective divisions. Nichele Wada earned special recognition for her extraordinary accomplishment that day: Using a pitching wedge on hole number six, she scored a hole-in-one! Members of the intermediate golf team are Justin Chu, Jarin Harada, Zachary Hironaka, Jason Jou, Kylie Kashimoto, Vance Ribao, Nichele Wada and Jordan Yamashita. Coaches are Ehren Mau and Ronnie Harada. Seated, from left, are Zachary Hironaka, Kylie Kashimoto, Nichele Wada and Jarin Harada. Standing are Justin Chu and Jordan Yamashita. (Reported by Camille Michel)

HONOLULU

Maryknoll High School

On April 23, the seniors went on retreat to St. Anthony’s Retreat Center. The following morning was spent in community service at Makiki Library, Moiliili Library, Diamond Head Theatre, Ka Papa Loi o Kewai, St. Anthony Retreat Center, Paokalani Senior Center, Sacred Heart Church and the former residence of the Maryknoll Fathers near the grade school campus. It was also an opportunity to participate in the National Catholic Educators Association’s effort to collect community service hours in honor of Pope Benedict’s 81st birthday, on April 16. Students painted sets, cleared out book shelves, cleaned rooms, moved furniture, mopped floors and entertained residents at the Paokalani Senior Center. Senior advisories are led by teachers Matt Capps, Elliott Chamizo, Stephanie Conching, Blaine Gier, Franklin Gonzalez, Cynthia Kupau, John Madriaga, Bruce Smith and Sheila Worley. Coordinating the retreat activities for the senior class were religion department faculty members Suzeth Carreon, Franklin Gonzalez, Jeff McGivern, Joe Miller and Sheila Worley. Pictured are Olivia Uchima, Kila Chan, Macky Tachibana, Christian Bradley, Sean Wright and Noah Yoshimura line-dancing with seniors at Paokalani Senior Center. (Reported by Camille Michel)

PEARL CITY

Our Lady of Good Counsel School

We celebrated our feast day on April 28 with a procession, song fest, Mary and Joseph look-alike contest (everyone won), essay and lei contests (everyone won), awesome talent show (the Super-Supremes, teachers and librarian Catherine Awong, Sylvia Tsuda and Heidi Valencia, made a guest appearance) and fiesta (the students brought so much onolicious food). Mahalo to all those that participated and to Father Paulo Kosaka who donated the prizes. … The school bid farewell to our beloved Father Jack Niland on May 7, a day before he returned to New York. Many tears were shed as the students, faculty and staff gave him leis and fond embraces as we sang some of his favorite “School Mass” songs. The parting was especially sorrowful because he had touched so many of our lives during the nine years he was with us. Aloha ‘oe. aloha ‘oe, until we meet again. (Reported by Dominic Olaso)

HONOLULU

Sacred Hearts Academy

Students Bernice Musrasrik and Sara Phillips produced and directed the videos “You’re Not Alone” and “It’s Not Too Late For You” which tied for first place in the Best in Category for public service announcements addressing on-line predators and social networking. Both videos will air on national television channels and will be featured on the FBI Internet safety website. The Best in Category prize includes a cash award. “The PSA awards emphasize the importance of the students’ technical training and creativity and they allow our girls to display their video safety messages to thousands of viewers worldwide via the Internet,” said Academy videography teacher Randall Pong. Pictured are FBI Agent Arnold Laanui, Bernice Musrasrik, Pong, Sara Phillips and Honolulu Police Officer Chris Duque. (Reported by Hayley Matson-Mathes)

HONOLULU

Holy Trinity School

Our students celebrated the traditional May Day program complete with a royal court. After our program, the whole school walked to Kuliouou Park for an old fashioned May Day picnic that included a tug-of-war, jump roping contest, and a sack race. Pictured are Miss Colleen and Joshua (mother and son) competing against each other in the hula hoop contest. Who won? Mom of course! (Reported by Colleen Nakama)

HONOLULU

Star of the Sea School

Lei Day, May 2, here was made extra special by the guest appearance award winning songwriter and entertainer Danny Couch. Every student was a star as they performed Hawaiian songs, chants, instrumentals and dance to honor King Nicholas Luna and Queen Taylor Candelario and made Lei Day truly memorable for parents, staff and honored guests. Danny Couch touchingly sang his “I Love Hawaii” and (pictured) “These Islands” as the eighth grade girls danced. (Reported by Cheri Rauckhorst)

KAILUA

St. Anthony School

Ms. Franzi Kunz from Switzerland spent three weeks here in April as part of a teacher training and certification program in her home country. Her time was spent observing, assisting, teaching, and interacting with students in grade two while practicing and perfecting her English skills. Ms. Kunz’s experiences will assist her in teaching English in Swiss schools. Students and teachers gained much from each other with this cultural exchange. (Reported by Cecelia Weaver)

MANOA

Saint Francis School

The Japanese language level 4 students captured first place in the Japan Wizards Competition sponsored by the Japan-America Society of Hawaii. For their prize, members of the winning team travel to Japan in June. Pictured are Tokuda sensei, Sheila Saromo, Kaede Yanagihara (captain) and Diane Bautista. In addition, ninth grader Sacha Mangine won first place in the KZOO radio Japanese speech contest, and 11th grader Josette Villaro placed third in the Japanese New Year’s Card competition sponsored by the Hawaii Association of Japanese Teachers. (Reported by Karen Curry)

KANEOHE

St. Ann’s Model Schools

Our schools competed in Meadow Gold’s 12th Annual Milk Carton Regatta. Students from our junior high worked diligently for many weeks in preparation for the competition. Teachers Mark Lau and Marietta Adonis organized the students into teams that planned, designed and built a boat made completely out of milk cartons. The result of their hard work culminated in a fun-filled day of activities on May 3 at Magic Island. Not only did the students compete in the racing regatta, they also did a presentation display on their boat, competed in a school spirit competition and participated in a health and environment workshop. Although our team did not place in our division, science teacher Mark Lau with the help of seventh grader William Muna came in first in the teacher’s race. We are very proud of the effort and spirit our students displayed. (Reported by Kuulei Halemano)

AIEA

St. Elizabeth School

April 19 was an exciting moment for the 18 second graders to receive for the first time the body and blood of Christ. Shown in the picture with the new communicants are the second grade teacher Dominican Sister Genevieve, teacher assistant Mrs. Gilda Angle, Capuchin Franciscan Father Gordon Combs, who presided over the Mass, assisted by Deacon Kin Borja. (Reported by Sharon Nagasawa)

EWA BEACH

Our Lady of Perpetual Help School

The vast, blue Ewa Beach sky set the tone for a beautiful May Day celebration which opened with prayers, songs, and the crowning of Mary, Our Lady of Perpetual Help. Conch shells sounded the arrival of the 2008 May Day Court and the “ALOHA” began to flow. Each class offered its talents through a variety of songs and dances. The vivid colors, aromatic floral leis, and the rich cultural sounds filled the day with joy, laughter, and a rich spirit of ohana. This year’s Queen Natasha Manuel and King Romyl Lopez led the celebration with elegant finesse. The program concluded with students and audience singing the school’s Alma Mater and the traditional “Hawaii Aloha.” (Reported by Laverne Suster, photo by Thalia Woodward)

HONOLULU

St. John the Baptist School

To promote camaraderie, teamwork, cooperation and sharing and to offer a break for all students, teachers, parents, guardians and parishioners, the school with the Parent-Teacher Guild had a Family Fun Fair on April 19 on campus. The day offered a variety of food and game booths, raffle prizes and well-known entertainers. At the Second Grade’s Bazaar and Candy Store, folks bargained shoes, handbags, clothes, kitchen wares, and more. Lower grade students enjoyed the Kindergarten’s Sponge Bob Bouncy (pictured). (Reported by the school)

HONOLULU

Saint Louis School

The Religion Department and Campus Ministry have answered the call by Bishop Larry Silva to begin eucharistic adoration in Hawaii Catholic Schools. Here it began at the new year and continues on Fridays at Mystical Rose Oratory on campus. Students are encouraged to use the time to reflect and reconnect to the love of Jesus Christ. Administrative staff, faculty, teachers, and coaches are invited to join the students to reflect, reconnect and grow in the presence of the Holy Eucharist. The last adoration for the year was May 9. (Reported by Jodi-Anne Yoshida)

HONOLULU

Star of the Sea Early Learning Center

King Cole Ale Kadoguchi, and Queen Alison Than, accompanied by her attendants Semira Wong and Parker Kilkenny, perform Lokomaikai (“the good in you and me”) during the Early Learning Center’s festive May Day Pageant on April 25. (Reported by Leanna Brake)

KAILUA

St. John Vianney School

The fourth graders took their annual trip to the Big Island, even though Madame Pele was not very cooperative. It was a trip of many “firsts” — our first visit to Imiloa Observatory, the first trip up to Mauna Kea to gaze at the stars and the first to be able to actually walk out and see the lava pouring out into the ocean. They will have wonderful stories to tell. Congratulations to three of our students who received awards for their participation in the Enchanted Lake Resident Association’s Keep Kailua Clean Art Contest. 1st Place: Sarah Yiu ($100), 2nd Place: Kaulana Kaanoi ($50), 3rd Place: Makana Kahalewale ($25). (Reported by Annie Chee)

HONOLULU

Chaminade University

Graduating seniors who have participated in campus ministry events while at the university gathered at Hale Malia on May 2 for an evening with the campus ministry staff to thank them and wish them well in their future endeavors. (Reported by Kay Stone)

HONOLULU

St. Theresa School

Of the 24 students who competed in the Punahou School speech festival on April 19, the following received superior performance medals: from left, Eugenia Fernando, Geneva Le, Isabelle Sayno, Jaclyn Sakamoto, Daniel Eslick, Jennifer Cajimat, Siena Simmons and Bryan Tamayo. The coaches for the speech program at our school are Sister Marian, Ms. Cadelago and Mrs. Coles. (Reported by Renuka Coles)