HAWI | Sacred Heart Parish

Mahalo to all who helped our community food bank with your KTA Save-A-Tape points. Your generosity reached a new record of 7,203 points with which we could buy a supply of frozen short ribs and kalua pork for many Kohala families! Our food bank serves our Kohala community. If anyone knows of a person or family in need of food, please tell them about our food bank. We give out food on regular distribution days but also during the week on an emergency bases. Referrals may be made to our parish office at 889-6436. … We welcome our baptized: Taniel Angelo, Kayka Antonio, Teygan Carvalho, Christian Campollo-Guerpo, Cubia Cornejo, Kaimana Davis, Elias Edayan, Kaysen Ittner, Thomas Kaholoa’a, Rheann Matundan, Thomas Stivers-Ching, Cirus Stivers, Kaimana Stivers, Kama Kana Stivers and Ingrid Vidal. (Reported by Lee Rivera)

KONA | St. Michael Parish

Eagle Scout candidate Adam Spittler of St. Michael’s-Kona Troop 79, helped relocate the Franciscan Gift Shop, in cooperation with the pastor Father Lio Faletoi and the Franciscan community. Important to the project’s success were the businesses that donated to the project: RK Matsumoto Enterprises for supervision and materials; McDonald’s for refreshments; Archon Construction for use of their “stamps;” Ace Hardware for the tarp and poles; Bonded Materials for acid stain and release; Soils Plus for a load of base coarse, and parishioners for monetary donations. Adam also thanks those who gave of their physical labor: Scoutmaster Bruce Soto, Robert Matsumoto, Ethan and Dennis Bilotti, Conor Bianchi, Keoni Leopoldino, Angelica Soto and Luis Ledezma. Thanks to all, the project was successfully completed and the gift shop has a new home! (Reported by Susan Bender)

KAPAA | St. Catherine Parish

Here are Kauai’s newly ordained deacons, from left, Manny Pascua, Tommy Contrades and Bill Farias, ordained Jan. 13. What a blessed day it was! Dark clouds cleared to a bright blue sky. Our church was packed to capacity with family, friends, former clergy and parishioners of both St. Catherine and Immaculate Conception Churches. Deacons-to-be and their families filled a few pews. Coyle Hall was decked out and laden with succulent foods. It was a memorable and joyous event. Yes, it was quite a day! (Reported by Carmen Nakasone)

KAHULUI | Christ the King Parish

On Dec. 3, at the Social Services Commission luncheon at the Maui Tropical Plantation, Carol Ignacio of the diocesan Office for Social Ministry recognized the following hard-working committee heads: bereavement, Joan Ai; food pantry, Donny and Fely Atai; homebound, Harriet Sardinha; minister to the elderly, Charlene Yamashiro and Carole Chai; prison, Kathy Sacapanio; Maui Interfaith Volunteer Caregivers, Margaret Enomoto; documentation and publishing, Connie Aruda; hospital, Linda Pulido and Joan Takakura; disability, Joan Ai and Ken and Charmaine Bissen, aloha, Eleanor Aquinde; and youth community, Rhonda Visaya. Kathy Sacapanio received the Blessed Damien award and Father Efren Tomas received an award for a job well done at Christ the King Church. … On Dec. 24 at the 5 p.m. Family Mass celebrated by Father Efren, children from Christ the King School did an interpretation of the Gospel for the Christmas celebration and, before the closing of Mass, did sacred gestures to a song. Pictured is Father Efren raising the Baby Jesus. (Reported by Carol Ursua and Jasmine Higa)

LIHUE | Immaculate Conception Parish

On Jan. 13, Bishop Larry Silva ordained three Kauai men to the permanent diaconate at St. Catherine Church in Kapaa. Retired Archbishop Carmelo Morelos from the Philippines was an honored concelebrant. Pictured, from left, are Jackie and Deacon Thomas Contrades, Aileen and Deacon William Farias, Sr., Bishop Silva, Deacon Manuel Pascua and his sister-in-law Yvonne Pascua. Deacon Farias and Contrades have been assigned to their home parish of Immaculate Conception Church, Lihue, and Deacon Pascua has been assigned to his home parish of St. Catherine. (Reported by Father William Shannon)

LANAI CITY | Sacred Hearts Parish

 On Dec. 20, a special Thanksgiving Mass was held in honor of our parish priest Father Raymond Ellorin. It was 15 years ago that Father Ray was ordained and committed his life to the Lord. The parishioners presented leis and special blessings thanking Father Ray for all he has done as their administrator and that he will always be blessed. In his homily, Father Ray said that he is the one who is blessed to have special people in his life and thanked them for always being there for him. A thanksgiving dinner followed the Mass. We wish only the best for Father Ray and God bless him always. (Reported by Eleanor Ozoa)

WAIKIKI | St. Augustine Parish

The parish 2006 Christmas party celebration was held at the Pacific Beach Hotel on Jan. 13. Our wonderful pastor, Sacred Hearts Father Lane Akiona, did a great job as master of ceremonies. God bless you, Father. We thank you and appreciate you. Pictured are music director Winifred Gaud, choir members Libert and Abigail Tong, and visitors and parishioners. (Reported by Bev Tavake)

WAHIAWA | Our Lady of Sorrows Parish

Litia Mira of Maili Land Transitional Shelter, pastor Father Larry Fisher, and project coordinator Jack Kampfer stand by a van packed with 100 Christmas presents collected by the parish for the homeless children at the shelter. Father Fisher is holding a thank you poster from the children. (Reported by Jack Kampfer)

AIEA | St. Elizabeth Parish

They’ve seen the L.I.G.H.T. … wouldn’t the Lord be pleased with these radiant faces? They are three of the members of our parish’s Young Adult Ministry, otherwise known as L.I.G.H.T. (Living in God’s Hope and Trust) and taken at one of their weekly gatherings on Thursday evenings. In front is ministry lead Charleston Unciano. Behind him is Tina and Ed Taguba. L.I.G.H.T. ministers to young adults 18 and over who want to keep on growing in faith and integrating that faith into their daily lives. Activities include Bible sharing, prayer, discussion on the Sunday readings and social activities. They meet each Thursday evening. Be a child of the L.I.G.H.T. and everything will look “brighter.” (Reported by Linda Cacpal, photo by Ed Taguba)

WAIPIO GENTRY | Resurrection of the Lord Parish

About 100 Confirmation I and II candidates, their parents, and sponsors gathered on Jan. 6 at the Hawaii Shelter for Homeless Veterans at Kalaeloa in Kapolei for their Epiphany project, “A Little Gift for Jesus.” They barbequed a luncheon feast for 170-190 veterans. Each teenage candidate sat down individually with the veterans to learn about their life and experiences. The event included live entertainment, games and prizes. The veterans received gift certificates and goody bags of personal items like shampoo, toothpaste, toothbrushes, razors, etc. A lot of bulk items like laundry detergent, irons and ironing boards were donated to the shelter for distribution. They also presented the shelter with a check for $1,659.44 — representing the remaining funds from their Advent sale after luncheon expenses were covered. The candidates raised approximately $2,800 through their annual “Advent Food, Bake, and Stuff Sale.” The experience was truly rewarding for all who participated and those that diligently planned and dedicated their time and talents for their Christmas gift to the Lord. (Reported by Nobuko Fushimi)

PEARL CITY | Our Lady of Good Counsel Parish

“On Fire!” is a prayer and worship organization for youth, ages 12-17. At their January meeting at St. Stephen Parish in Nuuanu, youth from around the island filled the pews of the church, praying and singing praises to the Lord. They continued their meeting in the parish hall for spirit-filled fellowship and refreshments. Many thanks go to the parents and guardians who encouraged and supported the youth to attend. Thanks also to the young adult leaders who chaperoned the group from our parish. They were Nellani Tabada, Nicole Tabada, Michael Bajet, Tiffany Mina, Vance Hall, Jr., Ian Ibana, Eulerson Pajimula and Dallas Carter Jr. Next month’s meeting is Feb. 3 at St. Stephen Church. The youth of the island are invited to attend “On Fire!” (Reported by Elaine Yamashita)

HONOLULU | Cathedral School

The faculty, staff and two students went a-caroling to the Kuakini Adult Day Care (Pali location) to share some good will and Christmas music with the seniors there. The elderly had smiles on their faces and many sang along. After the performance, the faculty distributed treats to the elderly and promised to return soon. (Reported by Mary Ann Lopes)

MAKAWAO | St. Joseph School

Students are excited at the first phase of their school’s playground upgrade. Truck loads of sand were delivered to the playground on Jan. 18 thanks to the kind donations of parishioners Clarence Gomes and Eric Pico and family. In addition to enhancing the playground area, new fencing and framing will ensure the safety of the students. Groundwork and beautification days are scheduled for next month — a great way take what is old and make it new again. … The students and staff are also gearing up for Catholic School Week starting Jan. 29. An island-wide walkathon, spelling bee and school-sponsored Masses are some of the events the students will partake in to share their pride and gratitude for the blessing of a Catholic education. Mahalo to all who make our Catholic schools thrive. (Reported by Helen Souza)

HONOLULU | Holy Trinity School

As part of our religion curriculum, we uses a national consumable Gospel magazine published by the Plaum Publishing Company, each grade using the edition pertaining to their grade level. Our third grade class from last year (our current fourth graders) had part of their work published in this magazine. Pictured are the proud and elated students displaying their proud accomplishment. Teacher Mrs. Hamilton submitted their work. (Reported by Colleen Nakama)

HILO | St. Joseph Elementary School

Fifth grader Acacia Zodrow, daughter of Steven Zodrow and Laura Seurynek, won the elementary and high school level championship round of our school’s 19th annual National Geographic Bee, Jan. 10, in the school library. The winning question was: “The state of Tabasco, which means “damp earth,” has a long tradition of agriculture in which country north of Guatemala?” Acacia’s correct response, “Mexico,” won her a gold medal, a winner’s certificate, and a chance to qualify for the March 30 state-level bee. State winners will participate in the national competition in Washington D.C., May 22-23, hosted by Alex Trebek of Jeopardy. (Rowena Austria)

KAHULUI | Christ the King School

Our school recognized the Vikings of the second quarter during their monthly children’s liturgy, Jan. 12. The Vikings join their pastor Father Efren Tomas and principal Bernadette San Nicolas in this photo. From left, are Nicole Opena (6th grade), Zacarias Chichioco (4th grade), David Torres (3rd grade), Angus Owan Jr. (5th grade), Alexandra Abraham (1st grade), Vince-Jacob Agtaguem (2nd grade), and Javan Fernandez (kindergarten). (Reported by B. San Nicolas)

HONOLULU | Maryknoll Grade School

We were super-excited when our class received an invitation to represent our school at the Dec. 4 inauguration ceremony of Governor Linda Lingle and Lt. Gov. James “Duke” Aiona. Did you know that all four of the lieutenant governor’s children went to Maryknoll Grade School? When we arrived we saw a big stage with bright flowers and a nice red curtain. We found the seats, got our program booklets and waited and waited while music played. Finally, two hours later, emcee Michael W. Perry introduced everyone on stage, including all the islands’ mayors. At noon, the governor and lieutenant governor were sworn in, and after the 19-gun salute, both gave their speeches. Among the things they said was that Hawaii will be a better place by decreasing the amount of illicit drug use. Gov. Lingle also said, “We should welcome the wandering, feed the people who are hungry, and help the people in need in Hawaii.” It was a really cool thing when a helicopter dropped plumerias on the crowd. Afterward, students Kylie Teramoto and Mitchell Heidenreich waited in line to give a lei to the governor and lieutenant governor and then we had lunch. We were proud to represent our school and hope to go to the next inauguration in four years! (Reported by Daryane Domen, Lisa Edamura, Mitchell Heidenreich and Ashley Higa, Maryknoll Class of 2013)

HONOLULU | Maryknoll High School

A highlight of our fall sports season was the state championship title earned by the boys varsity volleyball team. The Spartans defeated Hana in two sets in the boys division II volleyball state championships at the Stan Sheriff Center in November. Maryknoll entered the tournament as the Interscholastic League of Honolulu (ILH) division II champions. Tournament team members were Royce Campbell, Nathan Choy, Carson Chun, John Gaoing, Matt Garcia, Richard Herring, Simeon Ke-Paloma, Shelby Nakakura, Tyler Terai and Bryce Wong. Regular season team members Tri Bourne of Academy of the Pacific and Nick Castello and Kenji Rewick of Assets were unable to play because of a combination-team rule. The Spartans coaches are Shawn Doo, Blaine Gier, Matt Miguel and Jason Sahara. The championship was Maryknoll’s second fall season state title. Juliana Besenbruch won the state girls cross-country championships and was also the ILH girls cross-country champion and runner of the year. Kyle Kamegawa won the ILH boys bowling singles championship. (Reported by Camille Domaloan Michel)

EWA BEACH | Our Lady of Perpetual Help School

On Jan. 17, our fourth grade participated in the shuttle run, one of five events in the annual Presidential Fitness Test. This national assessment is crucial to the development of our students’ healthy lifestyle. More than half of our students finish in the higher percentages. Besides the shuttle run, students are also tested in push-ups, sit-ups, the sit-and-reach, and the one-mile run. They continue to improve their times from last year. Pictured is fourth grader Joshua Ibarra finishing his shuttle run with a time of 13.31 seconds as his class cheers him on. Joshua had one of the top times in his class. (Reporter by Richard Hernandez)

HONOLULU | Sacred Hearts Academy

The physics and astronomy open house at the University of Hawaii-Manoa gave four Academy students an exciting interactive look into the world of science and physics. Academy instructor Dr. Mimi Dang said the experience was a wonderful opportunity for students to participate in hands-on activities, see giant cosmic ray detectors, and hear lectures on particle physics and astronomy. Students learned about potential science careers and the courses required to earn a degree. The most popular application of physics on display was the “bed of nails.” Pictured, from left, are Hillary Cezar, Breanne Lee and Bernadette Pak putting physics principles to the test by reclining on a nail bed, and teacher Dr. Dang. (Reported by Hayley Matson-Mathes)

HONOLULU | Star of the Sea School

Since 1999, the students have joined Dr. Reuben Guerrero, an oncologist and member of the Aloha Medical Mission, in the mission of helping the needy and sick by contributing money for the Aloha Medical Mission. This life-giving effort has helped thousands of people all over the world and also here in Hawaii. The students fund-raising drive was Jan. 12-16. Dr. Guerrero and Maria Adversalo spoke to the students on Jan. 12 about the great need around the world for medical care, especially for the children. We are proud of our parents and students who last year donated $5,225.28. Pictured, from left, are Betlynda Young (teacher and project coordinator), Dr. Guerrero, Carola Souza (principal) and Adversalo (speaker and early learning center teacher). (Reported by Betlynda Young)

WAIPAHU | St. Joseph School

The school’s division II basketball team celebrate with their Hawaii Schools League trophy awarded them on Jan 20 at St. Louis Gym. The team took first place in the league’s western division with a 7-1 season. (Reported by Mary Claire Garcia)

HONOLULU | St. Theresa School

On Dec. 6, the students assembled in the co-cathedral for morning prayer and a surprise visitor. Since September, when Father William Kunisch introduced Wednesday morning prayer, the children eagerly await the homily to find out which grade will assist Father, as he creatively involves the students. What a surprise was had when down the aisle appeared Father William and “Bishop Nicholas.” The miter and crosier identified him as a bishop. But who was he? St. Nicholas was our seventh grade teacher Mario Di Lello. With “Bishop Nicholas” present, Father William taught about the life of this good bishop and how we could imitate his virtues. As the students left the church, they were presented with a St. Nicholas treat. Pictured, from left, are Samantha Zimmerman, “Bishop Nicholas” and Father William. (Reported by Sister Marian Muehlbauer, CSJ)

HONOLULU | Holy Family Catholic Academy

The school recently renovated its playground area to make it safer for the preschoolers, kindergarteners and first graders who use it. Long anticipated and planned, the project finally became a reality. Student and parent volunteers prepared the ground area by removing wood chips, and dismantling existing structures to make way for two new pieces of equipment and the installation of a brightly colored padded surface. Msgr. Terrence Watanabe is shown blessing the playground as the students excitedly wait for the opportunity to try it out. (Reported by Luciana Bishay)

HONOLULU | Saint Louis School

Kathy Stevens, co-author of “Understanding the Minds of Boys: Saving our Sons from Falling Behind in School and Life” and the Gurian Institute director of training, delivered an inspirational and informative presentation to the public and parents on Jan. 10, 11 and 12. Catholic school administrators and teachers were urged to attend. Thanks to Stevens, simple “tweaking” of our environment and communication to young men can help them thrive in the classroom. The faculty and staff benefited from a daylong training. Michael Gurian is scheduled to give a presentation on behalf of our school in August. (Reported by Darcie Yukimura)

HONOLULU | St. Patrick School

On Jan. 18, a number of students were recognized at the school’s first semester award assembly. Sacred Hearts Sister Anne Clare De Costa, the parish director of education, presented certificates to kindergarten through eighth graders for academic excellence, most improvement, and the spirit of St. Patrick! Pictured are students from kindergarten to grade four proudly displaying their accomplishment! (Reported by Margaret Rufo)

AIEA | St. Elizabeth School

The fifth graders have been teaming up for some community service! On Dec. 16, students and parents volunteered to paint over graffiti at bus stops in the Aiea area. The Bus provided the paint, brushes and rollers. It was a great opportunity to beautify the community. Graffiti was removed and fresh paint was applied to 14 bus stop benches and shelters on Moanalua Road. The day was a great success. The students had fun serving the community and building class spirit! Pictured in the back row are Ched Corpuz, Malori Mindo, Frank Lorenzo, Moli Faima and Mark Westfall. In the front row are Nicole Faima, Nicole Corpuz, Meryl Mindo, DJ Lorenzo, Matthew Faima and Katie Westfall. (Reported by Christen Imig)