The KeAkua Youth Group spent the first weekend of May in Kalihiwai Valley at the home of Sybil Nishioka, the Family Ministries leader. For over 10 years, Kalihiwai has been a place for many youth retreats both for fun and relaxation, and in more recent years, to prepare for mission and debriefing upon their return. "Aunty" Jan Hashizume, pictured in the kayak at right, has been a chaperone on numerous youth events, and was also at the retreat.

Although the youth were originally scheduled to perform mission work on O'ahu this summer, that trip has been postponed so that this young group can better prepare and equip themselves for the challenges that mission can present. Proper training, group bonding and a better understanding of the people they are serving are crucial. In the meantime, they will take an active role in the new Laundry Love program, and plan to partner up with another local ministry to feed the homeless in our community. Both of these programs will help them to "get their feet wet" in really ministering to those in need, and to be able to offer conversation, a smile, and helping hand.

With Hawai'i recently presented with the unflattering statistic of having the most homeless per capita in the nation, the need for service to the needy and marginalized is greater than ever. Back in 2012, the youth group served in Los Angeles Skid Row, where it was known as the homeless capitol of America. In 2013, they served on O'ahu in various shelters and soup kitchens, but the most troubling site was tending to the families with very young children on the Waianae Coast. The problem of homelessness appears to be growing with no end in sight. This young group of youth are committed to continuing their mission by serving the needy, and to be able to make a difference in someone's life, if even for a day.  

Our monthly Saturday Market and Swap Meet continues to grow, with more and more long-term vendors signing up for this event. Last Saturday's market on May 9, saw its largest numbers yet, thanks to the Mother's Day theme and special set-up that allowed vendors without tents to set up on the lanai and under the church tent. Although the morning started off blustery, it soon turned into a picture perfect day! Our Step-Massage Vendor was back offering folks a chance to relax under the shade on the tree deck (David Murray is pictured above center), and all sorts of creative and beautiful crafts, orchids, jewelry, and accessories were on display. The Lihue Pinto All-Stars, a baseball team with young member Joshua Rego and the Arruda boys, were kept busy washing cars and feeding hungry shoppers. 

Next month, June 13, the theme will be all about sports and our dads, and will return to the regular Saturday Market layout!  We are inviting vendors selling sports-related items to participate for free! Stay tuned for more info, or visit our Saturday Market webpage HERE.  

There was a lot to celebrate on Sunday, May 10th--- Fr. Ryan and Dr. Erin were back from vacation, and of course, it was Mother's Day! The Ke Akua Youth Group presented goody bags they made during their retreat, to all the moms at both services, but it was during the 9:30 service that brought tears to many moms in the pews. Each of the youth shared their love and appreciation to their moms and to those that were like moms to them.

 

Be sure to stay abreast of all the happenings and offerings in our Diocese and world-wide Episcopal Church. Check out the Diocesan newspaper, the E-Chronicle for coverage of events with special feature articles, or learn about upcoming events and announcements in the Diocesan E-News HERE, Recent highlights include:

• Quarterly deadline for Diocesan Grants coming up
• Trinity Sunday Offeringorro Camp Mokule'ia
• A Weekend with Diana Butler Bass on Kauai
• Four chosen as nominees for 27th Presiding Bishop
• Applications now being accepted for 2015 Jubilee Ministry Grants
• TREC Issues a Word to The Episcopal Church

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• June 26-28th: Preview weekend for Ahe Camp (completed 3-5 grade)
   
• June 28-July 3rd: Lokahi Camp (completed 6-8 grade)
   
• July 5-10th: 'Opio Camp (completed 9-12 grade)

Cost is $200 for Ahe camp, and $300 for Lokahi and 'Opio.  Scholarships are available, and travel assistance is also available.  For more information and to register, click HERE.