Almighty and gracious Father, we give you thanks for the fruits of the earth in their season and for the labors of those who harvest them. Make us, we pray, faithful stewards of your great bounty, for the provision of our necessities and the relief of all who are in need, to the glory of your Name; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. Amen.

The Collect for Thanksgiving was drafted by the Rev. Dr. Massey H. Shepherd, Jr. (1913 -1990) who taught for many years at the Church Divinity School of the Pacific and was the liturgy professor of many clergy of this Diocese. In his Commentary on the American Prayer Book (New York: Seabury Press, 1980; page 207), Marion Hatchett suggests that Shepherd expanded on an earlier Prayer Book tradition by "emphasizing the dimension of stewardship, both in regard to faithful conservation of resources and provision for those in need".

This is an essential theological notion. My thanks to God must be accompanied by action. The gifts of creation and of other people are shared with me that I might share them with others. None of us are alone, but we are members of the interconnected web of relationships that make us part of the family of God.

As the Hawaiian proverb teaches:

ʻIke aku, 'ike mai,

kōkua aku kōkua mai;

pela iho la ka nohana ʻohana

Recognize others, be recognized,

help others, be helped;

such is a family relationship.

So, as we give thanks to God this day, let us also ask that our eyes, hearts and hands might be open in a broken and hurting world.

May you have a blessed Thanksgiving!

Aloha ma o Iesu Kristo, ko mākou Haku,

+Bob

The Right Reverend Robert L. Fitzpatrick

+ Keali'ikoaokeakua

Our Schools

'Iolani Collects Nearly 5,000 Pounds of Food for Institute for Human Services

'Iolani School's Thanksgiving Food Drive resulted in 4,980 pounds of food collected for the Institute for Human Services (IHS). The phenomenal effort took place over two days, just in time for Thanksgiving! IHS was founded by an Episcopal priest, Fr. Claude Du Teil, over 30 years ago. In its infancy, it was dubbed the "Peanut Butter Ministry" for the sandwiches they served up three times a day, and has since grown to provide shelter and living assistance. They are one of the largest and most effective agencies serving the homeless in Hawai'i. (Photo from the 'Iolani School Facebook page.)

Priory Robotics

Congratulations to the the robotics team at St. Andrew's Priory who have advanced to the State Championships taking place at the Neal Blaisdell Center on December 13. Good Luck!

DIOCESAN NEWS

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Diocesan ECW Meeting at St. Mary's

St. Mary's Episcopal Church in Honolulu hosted the November meeting of the Episcopal Church Women (ECW). Fr. Gregory Johnson started the day with Morning Devotions, which was followed by the regular business meeting. After the meeting, the women learned how to make colorful holiday ribbon angels and then enjoyed a presentation on He Lei He Aloha - This is a lei of love, that celebrates the enduring legacies of Queen Lili'uokalani. Melleana Aluli Meyer, who is a descendant of Emma Nawahi, confidante of Queen Lili'uokalani, talked about the Queen's music, love of the islands, and her complete dedication to the people of Hawai'i. (Photos by Jan Motoshige)

Our Youth
Parents Join in the Fun at O'ahu Youth Gathering

The second year of monthly O'ahu Youth Gatherings is well under way, but November saw two gatherings take place. The first activity was held on November 2, but that was just the precursor to a very special event that would take place the following Sunday. The youth spent that first meeting planning the theme event for their parents/guardians.

On Sunday, November 9, O'ahu Youth Gathering Airlines took off! Dressed as pilots and stewardesses, youth took their parents on an imaginary flight that even included a safety video. Of course there was food, and time for worship, music and games. Pictured above, "pilots" and "stewardesses" prepare for their "flight", and "passengers" look pleased with the service. Below, parents got involved in ice breaker games, youth prepare the meals and Viliami Lino gets the group singing.

The event was designed to give parents an idea of what goes on at these monthly gatherings which are a collaborative effort of the Episcopal, Lutheran and UCC churches on O'ahu. All youth are invited to attend! If you'd like to learn more about this and other youth programs in Hawai'i, visit the website HERE, or contact Sarah Klitzke, Diocesan Youth Director, at (808) 536-7776, or e-mail her. (Photos from the Episcopal Youth Facebook page taken by Shana Ikeda and Sarah Klitzke.)

Celebrating the Feast of the Holy Sovereigns

Churches around the Diocese of Hawai'i celebrated the Feast of the Holy Sovereigns to honor King Kamehameha IV and Queen Emma. Many Hawaiian Civic Clubs and organizations on O'ahu and neighbor islands participated in the services at different churches, including the 'Iolani Guild who has close ties to the Episcopal Church. Above is a collage of the service held at The Cathedral of St. Andrew on Sunday, November 23. (Photos by Jan Motoshige)

O'AHU PARISH NEWS

Speaker Series at Emmanuel Features Diverse Topics

By Lee Carson

We began our second year of the speakers series on September 18, 2014, with a talk by Juda Carter, co-author of Keep It Positive. She shared her insight about how to permanently change children's behavior positively, without anyone getting upset, no tears and no escalating bad behavior. The talk as well received by parents and preschool teachers from the Kailua area who attended. The information was even appreciated by those who do not have children at home as Ms. Carter explained that her method works very well on husbands, co-workers, employees and other groups one must work with. Several teachers from Cole Academy attended and were so excited by what they heard, they not only read her books, but asked her to return to give classes to parents. St. John Vianney preschool teachers also were in attendance and may partner with Cole to hold a two day seminar on the topic.

The next speaker series event was on October 9th, featuring Brooks Takenaka, Assistant General Manager of the United Fishing Agency (UFA) and developer of the Honolulu Fish Auction. He explained how the UFA works with the fishing fleets, how they protect us, the consumer, explained how the fish get from the fishermen to the market or restaurant. He went into some detail on how a consumer can tell how fresh a fish is in the market and which fishes can cause some gastric issues. He gave us an in-depth picture of all of our pelagic (deep ocean) fish, complete with photos and in some instances, brief recipes. He was knowledgeable, friendly and inviting; so much so that many people expressed interest in attending the morning fish auctions at pier 38. The Hawaii Seafood Council arranges guided tours and Brooks said that with enough notice, he would be happy to be our tour guide.

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St. Philip's Celebrates

The following photos are from the ECWO November newsletter shared by the Rev. Kaleo Patterson.

Hurricane Sunday, October 19, was a Sunday to remember the Saints and Faithful, and histories of St. Stephen's and St. Philip's. A special celebration was held as the new worship center of St. Philip's was finally complete. Pictured above, the altar was moved from The Cathedral of St. Andrew with "skateboard technology", and the cross from the Waikiki Chapel was set in place. A special remembrance and commemoration for Princess Kaiulani was also celebrated at both services.

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ECWO 5th Annual Chili Cook-Off and Trunk or Treat

The following photos and article are from the ECWO November newsletter.

On Saturday, October 25, eight chili chefs and a horde of ghosts, goblins, princesses and what have you, arrived at Island Pacific Academy in Kapolei to participate in the annual Chili Cook-Off and Trunk or Treat celebration. Over 60 people enjoyed sampling eight champion-caliber chilis, and voted for their favorites. Then following dinner the keiki went out to Trunk or Treat at the many cars decorated for Halloween. Mahalo Nui to Cathe Portillo for again organizing this year's fantastic cook-off. Thanks also to Tammy Bruce and Shana Ikeda for organizing Trunk or Treat.

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Emmanuel's Chocolate Extravaganza
By Carolyn Remedios and Jane Tonokawa, Event Chairs

November 8 has come and gone, and the 12th Annual Chocolate Extravaganza is now history, but it was, once again, a rousing success, raising nearly $15,000 for Family Promise of Hawai`i and Emmanuel Church.

The sanctuary was transformed with beautiful glistening arrangements and twinkling lights, depicting the upcoming winter. Seventy-five VIP guests were served our best decadent chocolate confections under a big tent in the garden. The buffet was overflowing with wonderfully sweet chocolate desserts. The chocolate fountain was flowing warm dark chocolate for the guests to dip fruits, chips, and other sweets. The smiles and looks of sheer delight on the faces of our guests was a testament to the wonderful time that they were having. Many commented that it was the "best Chocolate Extravaganza event ever!"

Aside from the Family Promise and Emmanuel volunteers, we enlisted volunteers from the 'Iolani Key Club (pictured above right) and the Bank of Hawaii. We were very fortunate to have them that evening.

Thank you to all of our Episcopal community and beyond who supported the event in some way, whether it was by purchasing tickets, distributing flyers, promoting awareness of our event, or by donating to the auction or the buffet. Many in the Emmanuel 'ohana worked tirelessly to make this happen, and it was wonderful to see the fellowship of our faith community working together to be a part of the solution to homelessness in Hawaii. (Photo top left by Logan Laveti and at right Dalton Sue)

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New Members of Daughters of the King Installed

The St. Nicholas Chapter of The Order of the Daughter's of the King (DOK) installed three new members on Sunday, November 23, at Christ's Gathering Place (St. Timothy's) in Aiea. Pictured above left are new members Janice Lowery, Debra Hester and Brandy Donaldson, being welcomed and blessed by Shauna Jones, Chair of the St. Nick's Chapter, and the Rev. Paul Klitzke. At right, Kupuna Kala Holden, Vice President of the DOK Board, explains the cultural aspects of the Hawaiian gifts she made for them. (Photos by David Jones)

KAUA'I PARISH NEWS

Christ Memorial Offers Community Culture & Comfort:

No Na Lani Cultural Series

By Nancy Norelli

"Our Knowledge of Our History is Burdensome and Precious"

During the month of November, Christ Memorial Episcopal Church in Kilauea sponsored three evenings of the histories and traditions of King Kamehameha IV, Queen Emma, and Queen Lili'uokalani. The series was led by internationally known Kumu Hula, Hawaiian cultural teacher and vocalist, Kehaulani Kekua. She shared the fascinating details of the lives and accomplishments of the three Ali'i.

In speaking of the imprisonment and overthrow of Queen Lili'uokalani, Kumu Kehau said, "Knowledge of our history is burdensome, and it is precious. It is burdensome because you can no longer say 'I didn't know'. And it is precious to all of us to know our history and hold it in our hearts."

Participants learned the words to all of the verses of Ke Aloha O Ka Haku (The Queen's Prayer), and its correct pronunciation in Hawaiian. Leading with her stunning singing voice Kumu Kehau played the drum and chanted about Queen Liliuokalani, while one of her students, Jen Viets, danced hula, in illustration of the cultural tradition of chant and himeni (hymn). In the same way, attendees learned the pronunciation and music for Ho'onani I Ka Makua Mau, the doxology in Hawaiian.

Attendees learned of the death of King Kamehameha IV, preceded by the tragic death of their 4-year old son Prince Albert. Queen Emma took refuge in travel and her well known philanthropy. She especially loved the island of Kaua'i and it would prove to be most significant in the healing of her heart and soul. The district of Halele'a, on the north shore, was a favorite retreat for both the King and Queen. Alaka'i, Mauna Kilohana and the 'Oahi of Makana are storied places that have been woven into Emma's history on Kaua'i.

Food Pantry Opens on the North Shore

Along with offering a dose of Hawaiian culture to the community, Christ Memorial opened its doors to a new Food Pantry, providing a sense of comfort to those in need. Responding to a great need on the north shore of Kaua'i, the Rev. Robin Taylor says, "We believe it is part of our mission to do this so that our neighbors do not go hungry." Funding and staffing is being provided in part by our partnership with Hanalei Rotary, and by contributions, grants, and Christ Memorial funds and volunteers. The Food Pantry is open Saturdays from 3:30 to 5:00 pm, in the Parish Hall, which is directly across the street from the church.

MAUI PARISH NEWS

Commuter Retreat at Trinity By-the-Sea

By Paula Baldwin

Over twenty people from Wailuku, Lahaina, Makawao and Kihei, gathered together on Friday evening, October 10, for a commuter retreat focusing on centering prayer and connecting with God - the great I AM. Jim Vorndran, a Marianist brother now living in Cupertino, CA, was back on Maui to facilitate this retreat.

We began by remembering that the Divine, the presence of God, is in each of us and in everything we see and touch --- how to quiet and feel the presence, how to connect with God in nature, in animals, in fellow humans, how to quench the thirst for the divine presence? We shared, we centered, we prayed, we listened to music and went quietly into the evening of Friday, not having answered those questions, but ready to explore further.

On Saturday, we thought about the power of intention, of working with God to further healing and peace to those close to us and to the world. We reviewed what a prayer walk is. We had 3 centering prayer times, interspersed with 2 prayer walks. In the afternoon we listened to poems by Rumi, Hopkins, T.S. Eliot, and a Sufi creation poem. We chose one and took it outside into God's Cathedral-nature. Trinity offers so many wonderful spots to sit, talk with God, fall asleep, watch the birds-- just be. We ended the day the way we began with music. God is Here. God is Here. One thing I know. God is Here.

Mahalo to Jim, Fr. Austin, all the participants and God for being here at Trinity that weekend. (Photos contributed by Trinity By-the-Sea)

BIG ISLAND OF HAWAI'I PARISH NEWS

Happenings at Holy Apostles

November has been a busy month for the members at Holy Apostles Episcopal Church in Hilo. It started off with the Bishop's Visitation where members got to worship and fellowship with the Bishop on Sunday, November 2.

Then a local animal organization, Rainbow Friends, held a spay/neuter clinic for cats in the office and Cook Room of the Church. They were extremely grateful for being able to set-up the makeshift clinic at the last minute, and in the process, "fixed" over 60 animals that day. Rev. Hino invited them to hold their clinics there on a regular basis.

Operation Christmas Child was at work at Holy Apostles, as members packed dozens of shoe boxes with toys and gifts that will go to children in third world countries. Since 1993, over 100 million boxes have been distributed around the world through Operation Christmas Child, and it continues to grow! This is just one of the many programs of Samaritan's Purse that has served those in desperate need around the world for over 40 years, bringing medicine, food, and assistance, in the name of Jesus Christ.

Along with many other churches around the Diocese, Holy Apostles closed out the month with a special Feast of the Holy Sovereigns service on Sunday, November 23, honoring King Kamehameha IV & Queen Emma. The service was filled with dance, music, performances and readings, followed by a delicious potluck feast. (Photos from the Holy Apostles Facebook page and Moki Hino.)

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Free Lunch at St. Columba's Every Sunday

St. Columba's in Pa'auilo invites all to feast with them after their Sunday morning service. With a big bold "Free Lunch" sign displayed on the front lawn, it is hoped that people will come and join them in being fed in Word and Sacrament, and then stay to have their bodies nourished as well. They are also hoping that the word will spread to those who are struggling and to those who live alone and may be feeling lonely and isolated.

"Of course, the greater hope is that people who come because they saw the banner or because someone told them about the meal or bring them, will meet Jesus in us, " says the Rev. David Stout, Rector of St. Columba's and St. James.

THE EPISCOPAL CHURCH & BEYOND

Presiding Bishop's Statement on the Way Forward From Ferguson

[November 25, 2014] Episcopal Church Presiding Bishop Katharine Jefferts Schori has issued the following statement on the way forward from Ferguson:

The Episcopal Church joins many others in deep lament over the tragic reality that continues to be revealed in Ferguson, Missouri. The racism in this nation is part of our foundation, and is not unique to one city or state or part of the country. All Americans live with the consequences of centuries of slavery, exploitation, and prejudice. That legacy continues to lead individuals to perceive threat from those who are seen as "other." The color of one's skin is often the most visible representation of what divides God's children one from another.

Michael Brown's death was and is a tragedy, and has become a powerful witness to those divisions between human beings in this nation. His death also carries the potential to become a sacramental offering - if it continues to challenge us to address our divisions and the injustices in this nation that are far more than skin deep.

This nation was founded with a vision for freedom, a vision that has required repeated challenges in order to move toward true liberty for all the people of this land. Christians understand the sacred vision of the Reign of God as a society of peace with justice for all. May the life and death of Michael Brown drive us toward reconciliation that will shake the foundations of this nation toward the justice for which we were all created. The Episcopal Church will continue to partner and push for racial reconciliation in Missouri and across this land. I ask you to stand with hands extended in love, to look for the image of God in every neighbor, and to offer yourself in vulnerability for the sake of reconciliation across this land. May we become instruments of God's peace and healing, made evident in communities of justice for all.

The Most Rev. Katharine Jefferts Schori

Presiding Bishop and Primate

The Episcopal Church

CONTACT INFORMATION

Sybil Nishioka, Editor & Communications Contractor

The electronic Hawaiian Church Chronicle is the official news publication of the Episcopal Diocese of Hawai'i. All policy, editorial and administrative decisions are under the direction of the editor in consultation with the Bishop's Office. The Chronicle welcomes suggestions, story ideas, comments and opinions from its readers. Send articles, letters, news and photographs (electronic files preferred) to:

News, Office of the Bishop, 229 Queen Emma Square, Honolulu, HI 96813

(808) 536-7776; Neighbor Islands: (800) 522-8418

The Chronicle does not assume responsibility for the return of photographs or manuscripts.

The deadline for submissions in the February issue is January 23, 2015.