The E-Newspaper of the Episcopal Diocese of Hawai'i

Reporting on the events & activities in our Diocese and beyond... 

August 2016
In This Issue
Thoughts from the Bishop After the Tragedy in Orlando
Rest In Peace: The Rev. John G. "Jack" Shoemaker
Celebrating the Newly Ordained
Arakawa Heads to Virginia
2nd Annual PALM Conference
Hui Pu Summer Youth Camp
Being Inspired at St. Mary's
Journey to the Holy Land
O'AHU PARISH NEWS
ECWO; EPISCOPAL CHURCH OF WEST O'AHU
KAUA'I PARISH NEWS
MAUI PARISH NEWS
THE BIG ISLAND OF HAWAI'I PARISH NEWS
THE EPISCOPAL CHURCH & BEYOND
Contact Information
Bishop's Calendar

***** AUGUST *****

August 7
Sunday Visitation: The Cathedral of St. Andrew, Honolulu
August 12-21
Bishop's School
(Melanesia)
August 27
Ordination at St. John's BTS
(Paul Nahoa Lucas)
August 28-30
Annual Clergy Retreat
Camp Mokule'ia,Waialua


***** SEPTEMBER *****

September 10
O'ahu Legacy Society Lunch
September 11
Sunday Visitation: St. Christopher's, Kailua
September 13-21
Fall House of Bishops Meeting


Stay Informed!
Message from the Bishop


Aloha o ke Akua:
 
"I really believe that the fundamental principle on which Christians stand as followers of Jesus Christ is what Jesus taught and embodied in his life: love God, and love your neighbor. 'Love the Lord your God with all your heart, soul, mind, and strength, and love your neighbor as yourself.' In Matthew's version Jesus says, 'On these two hang all the law and the prophets,' which is basically saying that everything in the religious faith - everything - has to do with love of God and love of neighbor. It may say it in a different way or form, or apply it differently, but that is the bottom line.
 
If we who are Christians participate in the political process and in the public discourse as we are called to do - the New Testament tells us that we are to participate in the life of the polis, in the life of our society - the principle on which Christians must vote is the principle, Does this look like love of neighbor? If it does, we do it; if it doesn't, we don't.
 
We evaluate candidates based on that. We evaluate public policy based on that. And that has nothing to do with whether you're a Republican or a Democrat, liberal or conservative. It has to do with if you say you're a follower of Jesus, then you enter the public sphere based on the principle of love which is seeking the good and the welfare of the 'other.' That's a game-changer."

- Presiding Bishop Michael Curry, March 2016
 
Bishop Fitzpatrick I begin with this quote from the Presiding Bishop in the days after the Conventions of the two major political parties in the United States have concluded.  As Christians and as Episcopalians, we are called to be engaged citizens and to vote in civil elections. In our constitutional republic, the Church and clergy should not endorse candidates or a particular party, but I do think Christians have an obligation to speak on issues of public policy, the morality of laws and particular statements by individual politicians.  Further, as citizens, faithful Christians must view candidates and policies in relation to our understanding of the Gospel of Jesus Christ.
 
I invite you to take a look at the "Election Engagement" webpage HERE from The Episcopal Public Policy Network.  "This page is dedicated to assisting you in navigating some of the important issues in this election season such as addressing poverty, protecting voting rights, and engaging in civil discourse."
 
I have found the following books helpful in my reflection on faith as a Christian engaged in also being a citizen in a participatory democratic republic:
  • Public Faith in Action: How to Think Carefully, Engage Wisely, and Vote with Integrity by Miroslav Volf and Ryan McAnnally-Linz (Brazos Press, 2016). Volf is the Henry B. Wright Professor of Systematic Theology at Yale Divinity School and founder and director of the Yale Center for Faith and Culture, and McAnnally-Linz is an associate research scholar at the Yale Center for Faith and Culture. This is a careful reflection on major policy issues facing the United States with faith in a pluralistic society.
  • A Public Faith: How Followers of Christ Should Serve the Common Good by Miroslav Volf (Brazos Press; Reprint edition, 2013).  This is Volf's reflection on how a Christian can faithfully engage with politics in a pluralistic culture.
  • The Relevance of Religion: How Faithful People Can Change Politics by John Danforth (Random House, 2015).  Danforth served as a United States senator from Missouri and as the United States ambassador to the United Nations. He is an ordained Episcopal priest.  In this book, he offers a thoughtful reflection on the relationship between religion and politics.
  • Faith in the Public Square by Rowan Williams (Bloomsbury Academic, 2012).  This was the final published work by Bishop Williams before he stepped down as Archbishop of Canterbury. Though written for England, his theological reflection of politics and social issues can provide a valuable guide for the thinking Christian.
In addition, I have found the following books helpful as I consider our world, and the meaning of both plurality and character as we consider the future.
  • Not in God's Name: Confronting Religious Violence by Jonathan Sacks (Schocken, 2015). Rabbi Sacks served as Chief Rabbi of the United Hebrew Congregations of the Commonwealth from 1991 to 2013. He explores the roots of violence and its relationship to Abrahamic faith traditions. "The use of religion for political ends is not righteousness but idolatry. . . To invoke God to justify violence against the innocent is not an act of sanctity but of sacrilege."
  • The Road to Character by David Brooks (Random House, 2015). Brooks is an op-ed columnist for The New York Times.  He challenges the reader to move from seeking "r�sum� virtues" (wealth, fame, and social) to building our "eulogy virtues" (kindness, courage, honesty, faithfulness).
In the United States, we will again go to the polls in less than one hundred days.  As we do, I urge you to reflect on the relationship of your faith in Jesus Christ to your responsibility as a citizen.  Please keep our nation in your prayers.
 
Lord God Almighty, you have made all the peoples of the earth for your glory, to serve you in freedom and in peace: Give to the people of our country a zeal for justice and the strength of forbearance, that we may use our liberty in accordance with your gracious will; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen. 
 
Aloha ma o Iesu Kristo, ko mākou Haku,
+Bob
 
The Right Reverend Robert L. Fitzpatrick
+ Keali'ikoaokeakua

Special Announcement from the Bishop

Rest in Peace: 
The Rev. John G. "Jack" Shoemaker

 
It is with thanksgiving for his life and ministry that I inform the Diocese of the death of the Reverend John "Jack" Shoemaker on Friday, July 29, 2016.  Before his retirement, Jack served in this Diocese as the Vicar of Emmanuel Church, Kailua, and as a school chaplain (at Punahou and Mid-Pac).  Information about services will be forthcoming. 
 
Notes of condolence may be sent to:
Mrs. Roxanne Shoemaker
2525 Bolton Terr.
Salem, OR 97302
 
Almighty God, with whom do live the spirits of those who depart hence in the Lord, and with whom the souls of the faithful, after they are delivered from the burden of the flesh, are in joy and felicity: We give thee hearty thanks for the good examples of Jack and of all those thy servants, who, having finished their course in faith, do now rest from their labors. And we beseech thee that we, with all those who are departed in the true faith of thy holy Name, may have our perfect consummation and bliss, both in body and soul, in thy eternal and everlasting glory; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
 
The Right Reverend Robert L. Fitzpatrick
+ Keali'ikoaokeakua
 
DIOCESAN  NEWS
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Celebrating the Newly Ordained

By the end of August, the Episcopal Church in Hawai'i will have seen six ordinations during the summer; two to the Diaconate, and four to the Priesthood, marking a very promising time in the life of the Diocese. 

The four being ordained into the Priesthood represents the culmination of a vision that started several years ago, when Waiolaihui'ia, the local priest formation program, was being developed. The name, which means "the gathering of waters," was launched in January 2013, and is based on curriculum from the Iona School in Texas for bi-vocational priests and deacons. The three-year program has given Episcopalians in Hawai'i an opportunity to "heed the call," some of whom may never have the means or ability to attend seminary on the mainland in order to become a priest. All four are of native Hawaiian ancestry with professional careers.



Ordinations at St. Peter's, Honolulu, O'ahu



On Saturday, June 25, 2016, St. Peter's Episcopal Church in Honolulu was the site of three highly anticipated ordinations: Annalise Marie Castro to the Transitional Diaconate, and Malcolm Keleawe Hee and Phyllis Mahi Beimes to the Priesthood. Nearly two dozen clergy vested for this remarkable event.  Pictured above, the candidates wait to enter. Hee and Beimes go over last minute things just before the service is about to begin; Castro chats with the Bishop.


The pews overflowed with family and friends and some waited patiently outside. In his sermon, the Bishop shared insight into the ministries for which they were called with humor and reflection. He spoke about the visions of our churches and the importance of keeping Jesus in our words and at the heart of our mission. 


Gracious and tender moments were shared as the candidates were presented, examined and vested, and always powerful is the laying on of hands by the Bishop and surrounding clergy.  Above center, newly ordained, the Rev. Dcn. Annalise Castro prepares the Eucharist, and above right, all three welcome attendees to receive Communion.



Pictured above, the newly ordained priests, the Rev. Phyllis Mahi Beimes, and the Rev. Malcolm Keleawe Hee, are beaming during the recessional. Following the service, family and friends waited patiently for their turn to congratulate the new Deacon and Priests, and pile on fresh flower lei. Folks then headed to the parish hall for refreshments.  



The hall was packed with standing room only, filled with the sounds of fellowship. What a glorious day and a glorious time for the Diocese of Hawai'i!

Pictured at the very top of this article is Bishop Robert Fitzpatrick with the newly ordained.  They are holding beautifully hand-crafted certificates made by Irina Martikainen, the Bishop's Executive Assistant. The Rev. Dcn. Annalise Marie Castro, who recently graduated from Virginia Theological Seminary, is now serving as Chaplain at The St. Andrew's Schools. The Rev. Phyllis Mahi Beimes, the first woman of Hawaiian ancestry to be ordained into The Episcopal Church, and the Rev. Malcolm Keleawe Hee, are two of the four to come out of Waiolaihui'ia. Beimes is now serving as the Vicar at St. Matthew's Episcopal Church in Waimanalo, and Hee is an Associate Priest at The Cathedral of St. Andrew in Honolulu.

To view more photos of this event, visit the Diocese's Facebook page or the Photo Gallery on the diocesan website.  (Photos by S Nishioka)
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Ordination at St. Augustine's, Kohala, Hawai'i
By The Rev. Diana Akiyama, Vicar, St. Augustine's

Kahokuonalani "Lani" Louise Bowman was ordained to the Vocational Diaconate on July 2, 2016, at St. Augustine's Episcopal Church in Kohala. In his sermon, Bishop Fitzpatrick instructed Lani and the church on the unique call that defines the work of a deacon: to stand at the margins calling the church to respond to the suffering in the world, and calling the world to a life in Jesus Christ through regular worship in the Christian community.



This historic event in the life of St. Augustine's, was filled with great joy and celebration. The congregation represented all facets of Lani's life: her church family, her extended family, long-time friends in the Kohala community and beyond. Hank Guerrero, chanted the opening Oli. In the service, Lani was presented for ordination by two lay members: James and Kayoko Hanano, and two clergy: The Rev. Moki Hino (Rector, Holy Apostles) and The Rev. Diana Akiyama (Vicar, St. Augustine's). Clergy from around the diocese were also present to add their blessings and affirmations of Lani's ordination. Fane Lino and Andrew Landa (Lani's brother) read the Lessons, and Peter Denman chanted the Veni Creator Spiritus. Altar flowers were given in memory of Carson Rasmussen and Lani's parents, Pierre and Betty Bowman.

The reception following the service was held in Walker Hall. The buffet table reflected the talent and generosity of St. Augustine's cooks; it was impossible to leave hungry. Mahalo to everyone who gave time, talent and treasure to make this event a shining reflection of the Holy Spirit!

Pictured at top from left is the newly ordained Deacon, Lani Bowman, with a beautiful lei, Bishop Robert Fitzpatrick and the Rev. Diana Akiyama.  In the center row, at far right, is Bowman with the Rev. Moki Hino.  (Photos by Michael Jackson)
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Ordination at Good Shepherd, Wailuku, Maui



On Saturday, July 30, 2016, the Rev. John Hau'oli Tomoso was ordained to the Priesthood at Good Shepherd Episcopal Church in Wailuku, Maui.  Tomoso is one of the four to come out of the Waiolaihui'ia program, designed to raise up priests locally and support the ordination of bi-vocational priests. 



Tomoso was born and raised on Maui, with a heart for service. For 39 years, he served his community as a social worker, and will continue to do so as a priest. In an article in the Maui Now news, Rev. Tomoso described ordination to the Priesthood as, "God's voice speaking to us very loudly, and God being heard by everyone.  The journey to the Priesthood is not by myself but with everyone in my community and it is a journey that continues with faith, focus and discipline all for the Glory of God."



Bishop Fitzpatrick shared with Rev. Tomoso three words as "hallmarks or themes" that his priestly ministry in the diocese will be delivered and nurtured.  Those words are lokahi (unity and harmony), 
ho'ohanohano (to honor and raise up), and ha'aha'a (humility and humbleness).  


Following the service, a grand celebration followed that also marked the beginning of a year-long celebration of Good Shepherd's 150th anniversary. Dozens of volunteers and helping hands put together a lavish event that brought together clergy, friends, family and folks from the Episcopal churches around the island. The joy was palpable, reflected in the smiles of everyone in attendance.

"It was lovely to feel the joy that people put into it and the result was an amazing liturgy and celebration," said Fr. Craig Vance, Rector of Good Shepherd, summing up the day's events.  "We can bathe in the lovely afterglow and know that we have given Hau'oli a lovely launch into ordained ministry and we can enjoy the fruits of all of our labours as he ministers to us and others on the island."

You can view more photos of the celebration that followed under the Maui Parish News section below. (Photos by Craig Vance and friends of Tomoso.)

Coming Up...
Coming up on August 27, 2016, the Rev. Dcn. Paul Nahoa Lucas will be ordained to the Priesthood at St. John's By-the-Sea in Kaneohe.  
 
Formation for the Priesthood
Arakawa Heads to Virgina

With the first four graduates of the Waiolaihui'ia program now serving as priests, the program continues to nurture and inspire others in the Diocese.  In this month's issue, we feature Andrew Arakawa, who is continuing his journey to the priesthood on the mainland, and for whom prayers are being asked for.

By the time you read this, Andrew and his family will have just arrived in Virginia to begin a new chapter in their lives. He will begin a three-year program at Virginia Theological Seminary (VTS) to obtain his Masters in Divinity, and was recently admitted as a Candidate for Ordination to the Priesthood by the Bishop.  Andrew took part in the Waiolaihui'ia program for the past year while discerning his call, grateful to all who supported and guided him.


"Being a part of Waiolaihuiʻia has been very important for my spiritual growth," said Arakawa.  "I truly appreciate all my fellow members of the first year cohort as well as the four recent graduates that lead the way.  It was a great experience to work closely with the instructors and mentors of the program.  I truly appreciate the guidance I received in the program from Fr. Austin (Murray), Mtr. Linda (Decker), Bishop (Richard) Chang, and Fr. Ray (Woo).  I truly feel more confident about going off to seminary having had the year with Waiolaihuiʻia."

Andrew was born and raised on O'ahu, and in 2006, he and his wife Kim moved to the Big Island of Hawai'i shortly after the birth of their son, Liam.  It was their intention to "live off the land, work together, live authentically, serve our community and simplify life."  It was here that they also started their business, Prune, LLC, a public relations, marketing and development company, mostly serving non-profit clients. They feel blessed for having been able to live as intended--- so just how did he come to this decision that would change the face of their lives?

"It was through a lot of prayer and discernment, a deep and meaningful conversation with Bishop Bob, as well as many conversations with my mentor, Fr. Moki (Hino), and also many, many long and meaningful conversations with my wife Kim."

When asked what this will mean for his family, Arakawa responded, "I feel like moving to Alexandria, Virginia holds so many great opportunities for us as a family.  Kim and my son Liam (who is now 9) are really looking forward to the adventure that lies ahead."  Thanks to the conveniences of technology, Kim will continue to run their business from Virginia, grateful to the clients who are sticking with them.

But as exciting as any new adventure may seem, it has also produced a lot of anxiety, sadness and heartache.  "We are looking forward to starting our new life at VTS and being a part of a new community," said Arakawa, "but it is incredibly difficult for us to say goodbye to Hawaiʻi and to the Hawaiʻi Island community we love so very much."

In the words of a truly faithful man of God, Arakawa shared the following reflection: "In all of this it has been a walk of faith, a process of stepping out into the unknown, open to whatever God has in store for us.  It has truly been a blessing for all of us.  We are grateful."    

In the photo at top, Arakawa takes part in the monthly Waiolaihui'ia gatherings, and above, the family with Andrew's mom who will surely miss them.

Editor's note:  Many thanks to Preston Lentz for his help with the interview, and to Andrew for allowing us to follow along on his journey and for sharing the beautiful family pictures with us. 
 
2nd Annual PALM Conference

On Friday, July 15, 2016, the 2nd Annual Professional Administrators in Lay Ministry (PALM) Conference was held at the Cathedral of St. Andrew's Von Holt Room in Honolulu. The all-day conference was open to all church administrators, secretaries, and others in the Diocese who are involved in the handling of church administration.  The guest speakers who were brought in covered a variety of topics, but it was also a time for attendees to network, share ideas and discuss common issues in their church environment. 



Pictured above are organizer Charmaine Ito, Office & Property Manager in Office of the Bishop, and volunteer Sonny Liu, who made sure everything was in place for a smooth-running event.  After a blessing and welcome from Bishop Robert Fitzpatrick, this year's conference began with a video-conference call and virtual presentation with Tamara Plummer, Asset Map Coordinator for the Episcopal Relief & Development (pictured below left). The innovative project she is involved with will provide a resource containing the "assets" of each church. This "asset map" could be especially useful in times of need and emergencies.  Once completed, people will be able to find out what types of facilities and ministries a church has, such as a food pantry, thrift store, shower facilities, etc.  Having this information would help and enable others to seek them out.  To be fully effective, the asset map would require that each church fill out an online profile form with accurate and up-to-date information. Wilma Namumnart (below right) from Epiphany Episcopal Church in Honolulu, had already tackled the form, and was able to walk participants through the process.


The Diocese's Chancellor, Wayne Yoshigai, Esq., (below left) touched on several "hot topics" with regards to human resources and hiring practices.  He also covered in detail the upcoming changes to the overtime law taking effect on December 1, 2016. The law, which raises the salary level of non-exempt employees to $47,476, could have a big impact on some of our churches. They will need to address the issue before the law goes into effect.
 


After a delicious buffet lunch, the attendees listened to Mary Norman from WorkLife Hawai'i (third photo), who spoke about managing stress in the workplace. Keane Akao, Director of Operations for the Episcopal Church of West O'ahu (far right), shared his knowledge on different types of data collection programs and how best to gather and use the information. Charmaine Ito, went over important forms and resources that can be found on the diocesan website, and closing out the afternoon was Sybil Nishioka, the Communications Contractor for the Diocese, touching on the importance of a proper functioning website, e-mail marketing, social media and the sharing of parish news with the rest of the diocese.

Next year's PALM Conference is scheduled to take place in June 2017.  (Photos by S. Nishioka)

Our Youth
Hui Pu Summer Youth Camp
By Seini Lino, Associate Program Director, Camp Mokule'ia



It was a busy summer at Camp Mokule'ia with Hui Pu 2016. The annual camp ran from June 24 through July 8, beginning with the Ahe group (grades 3-5), followed by Lokahi (middle school), and ending with 'Opio (high school).  Former Diocesan Youth Director, Sarah Klitzke, left big shoes to fill after leading amazing Hui Pu camps and activities in the past.  Thankfully we had gracious campers who took on all activities with great spirit and enthusiasm. This year's theme was "Faith Like A Mustard Seed" with an emphasis on "Fearless Faith" for the older campers. 



First and foremost I want to extend a big mahalo nui loa to our wonderful Camp Nurse, Beatrice Fitzpatrick, who camped out for the whole duration of Hui Pu. She nursed bruises, cuts, sprained ankles and fevers that lasted longer than anticipated.... I'm still trying to figure out what Nurse Bea had at the infirmary that had so many of our campers visiting her!  Maybe it was the comfortable bed, ceiling fan and beautiful ocean front view! 

Secondly thank you to Kahu Amy Crowe from Holy Innocents on Maui, who was our wonderful chaplain, and whose family (pictured at left) was a great blessing to our Lokahi (Middle School) campers. Pastor Amy led chaplain chats and Bible study every morning and afternoon.  Amy, her husband Jimmy, and James, her 1-1/2 year old son, were awesome! James was our honorary Junior Counselor, having great participation, terrific spirit, and even gracing us with a performance on "skit and talent night!"  MAHALO Crowe Ohana!

Thank you to all the congregations who contributed to making this year's Hui Pu a great one that included campers from the Big Island and Maui. I wanted to acknowledge the troopers who flew in from St. Augustine's under the supervision of Lani Bowman. If you think flying with one child was a huge responsibility, imagine flying with six elementary-aged kids! Thankfully they were all great campers! 

A big mahalo to St. Elizabeth's for the use of their van and driver to transport campers safely to and from the airport, and to hiking excursions, basketball games and other activities....busy busy! 

Of course none of this would have been possible without all of the amazing volunteers: Jenny Wallace and Stephanie Wight; counselors and junior counselors: Sonja Barbas, Elizabeth Stacy, Jonathan Kieffer, Gabriel Baptista, Joshua Lino, Viliami Lino and Mary Catherine (MC) Robinson (all the way from Tennessee); new campers and camp counselors Loke-Teurikan Chong Gum and first-ever second generation Camp Mokule'ia junior counselor Michaela Miller, whose mom was once a camper, junior leader and camp counselor here at Camp Mokule'ia.



This year's camp was filled with laughter (and tears of joy from all the laughter). I cannot thank you all enough for your help, patience and prayers. I hope all campers and volunteers left with great memories.  Mahalo to parents, churches, the Episcopal Diocese of Hawai'i, and the staff of Camp Mokule'ia for making this opportunity happen for our youth. We give thanks and praise especially to our Almighty God for weaving the paths of these campers together and for his blessings of love that were evident on each child's face. God Bless You All!  (Photos from the Camp Mokule'ia Facebook page and Seini Lino)

Episcopal Church Women
Being Inspired at St. Mary's
By Louise Aloy, President, Episcopal Church Women, Hawai'i



On June 18, 2016, the Episcopal Church Women met at St. Mary's Episcopal Church, located in the neighborhood of Mo'ili'ili, Honolulu.  The Rev. Gregory Johnson led us in Morning Prayer and then gave us a tour of the church facilities with an overview of each of their active ministries.  He talked about the monthly clinic that takes place there every last Thursday of the month, and where they serve up a hot meal to the those in need (counts go over 100). He showed us the Soldier's Chapel where they assist veterans with clothing and free bus passes are issued by the Institute for Human Services.



Fr. Gregory has an enormous passion for caring for all of God's people. He has worked tirelessly with government agencies, some federally funded while others are state or county funded, to bring much-needed services to those who would otherwise have no access or know where to go.  Some of the organizations and people he works with regularly include the Honolulu Food Bank, the VA for veterans, University of Hawaii School of medicine (interns, nurses and volunteer doctors bring a mobile medical van and offer health screenings; blood pressure, blood glucose, nutrition and attend to cuts and scratches), and many more. 



The church also offers free classes of Yoga, Tai Chi, Zumba, hula lessons, piano lessons and singing lessons. It was a very inspiring day for many of us. We definitely felt we could somehow do more at our own churches to serve the wider community and for those in our pews.

Me ka mahalo Fr. Gregory, for such an inspiring visit at St. Mary's of Mo'ili'ili. Volunteers are always needed and welcomed. If you can spare as little as 20 minutes or as many hours as possible, they can use the help. Call Fr. Gregory at the church office or just show up on the last Thursday of each month (from as early as 7:00 AM) to start the prep work for the hot meal. There is always work that needs to be done. Fr. Gregory and St. Mary's church thank you in advance for volunteering.

Pictured at top, Fr. Gregory leads Morning Prayer, attendees brought supplies for St. Mary's ministries to the needy; second row, the women take a tour of St. Mary's facilities; third row, lunch over the business portion of the day.  (Photos by Jan Motoshige)
 
Pilgrimage
 Journey to the Holy Land

Editor's Note:  This past June, 25 pilgrims from St. Mark's Episcopal Church in Honolulu, joined their Rector, Fr. Paul Lillie, on a two-week pilgrimage to the Holy Land. Some of the many places they visited were Jerusalem, Bethlehem, the Dead Sea, Galilee, Nazareth, Emmaus and Jericho. The following reflection was written by one of the pilgrims, Michael Ida, who happens to be the parish Treasurer, and also an Oblate of The Order of Julian of Norwich.



Renewal in the Desert
By Michael Ida

I now know why early Christian monastics fled into the desert to find God. What at first seems like just a sterile and desolate wasteland is, on closer examination, a place of austere beauty and even abundance, where life lived on the knife-edge of existence instills everything with a clarity and focus that are sharp, clean, and invigorating. To say that the Holy Land is just a desert would be like saying that the Hawaiian Islands are just volcanic outcroppings in the middle of the ocean.

I expected that my first (and possibly only) visit to the Holy Land would be hectic, and I certainly was not disappointed. There is enough to see and experience there to fill a dozen lifetimes (let alone the mere twelve days that we were there)-no lounging by the pool with a beach book on this trip. If you have never been to the Holy Land, my advice to you in a word is to go. Even if you were vicariously following our progress online, there is no substitute for being there-for feeling the broiling heat, the relief of a cool drink, and the myriad other sights, sounds, tastes, and smells that Jesus almost certainly did during his earthly lifetime. We are physical beings, and the power of proximity, of being physically present on the same ground that Jesus was and experiencing many of the same sensations that he did, cannot be underestimated in bringing the gospels to life.



Beyond the physical, however, the most enduring insight that will remain with me is how, as fellow pilgrim Les Uyehara put it, "everything makes sense": How the Biblical stories from both the Old and New Testaments now have faces -- both the characters and the places -- and how everything from the motivations of the characters in the unfolding drama to the awe and terror of encountering God in the wilderness, can be understood firsthand. After feeling the unrelenting heat of the sun in a cloudless sky (so alike and yet so different from our own Hawaiian sun), hearing the distinctive crunch of the white limestone gravel under our shoes, and smelling the pungent and savory aromas of the open-air bazaars, I now see how Jacob's encounter with God in the desert changed him for life; how alone and afraid Jesus must have felt while being held in an underground cell awaiting trial; and how utterly inadequate 30-second sound bites are in conveying the complex and volatile mix of history and emotion which swirls among the three Abrahamic faiths for which the land is holy.

As a lucky coincidence, the time that we were in the Holy Land also coincided with my profession anniversary as a Julian oblate. Monastics are very intentional about cultivating the spirit of sacramental living, of being aware of God's presence in the in-between times -- the most humble and mundane moments of our lives when we are alone save for God -- and being grateful for that presence and the small graces that come with it that are so easy to overlook. It is therefore fitting that the event that I found most affecting did not occur in one of the many majestic churches we visited, or among the crowds of other pilgrims and tourists that were present almost everywhere, but among the members of just our group in the Judean desert. 



As we watched the sunrise in silence over the Wadi Qelt, and felt the breathtaking reality of God's presence as Jacob must have felt it after wrestling alone with God in the night thousands of years ago, we were joined by a Bedouin souvenir vendor and his young son what for them must have been the start of just another work day. As we proceeded to have what for me was one of the most moving Eucharists that I have ever participated in, the vendor and his son quietly went about setting up their wares in preparation for the crush of tourists sure to show up later in the day. When it came time to exchange the peace, the young boy spontaneously came around to each of us and joined in spreading God's love and reminding us of the presence of Christ in the simplest of human gestures. 

"The simple enjoyment of our Lord is in itself a most blessed form of thanksgiving," wrote Julian of Norwich, and our pilgrimage was, in addition to being a watershed and life-changing event, a reminder of how God works through the lowliest elements of his physical creation, and a renewal of the spirit of my oblate vocation: For all of which, I give humble and hearty thanks.
___________________________________________________________________________

To view more photos of the pilgrimage, visit St. Mark's Facebook page and on Instagram.
 
O'AHU PARISH NEWS

A Fond Aloha to the Brownridge Family


On Sunday, July 17, 2016, the Very Reverend Walter Brownridge, preached his final sermon as Dean of The Cathedral of St. Andrew.  After five years in Hawai'i, the Brownridges head back to the mainland where they will be closer to family.  

During his time at The Cathedral, a number of national and international leaders within the Anglican Communion spoke at various events, serving to inspire many in Hawai'i. One of the most notable was Archbishop Desmond Tutu who visited in the summer of 2012.  Brownridge first met Archbishop Tutu in South Africa, where he was serving as Canon at St. George's Cathedral in Cape Town. In an article that appeared in the Cathedral's Ka 'Upena, Brownridge said, "Serving under Archbishop Tutu gave me the opportunity to know first hand this man, whose policy of forgiveness and reconciliation have become an international example of conflict resolution and a trusted method of post-conflict reconstruction."  Tutu's influence has been a powerful compass for Brownridge who will continue to pursue a call that will "closely entwine faith and justice."  



Pictured above are the Brownridges at his final Sunday service, and below at the joyous reception later that evening.  An incredible feast, music, dance, video presentation and gifts were shared that made for a memorable event.  Included in the photos below are wife Christina addressing the crowd, and sons Alec and Martin, who were called on stage to perform.  In a farewell reflection to the congregation, Brownridge wrote:

"I believe that the greatest bond that holds us together is that paramount Christian virtue - love. I have experienced your love in a variety of ways, and I tried to return it. I hope I have done you justice in this regard. It was the least I could do in the face of such Christian hospitality. If I have not, I ask forgiveness. This lesson of love, which in Hawai'i is expressed by the word "Aloha", will be the most important virtue I will carry away from this Cathedral." 


(Photos by Neal MacPherson)
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Ordination of the Rev. John Conroe
On Wednesday, July 27, 2016, Emmanuel Episcopal Church in Kailua was the site of a special event for the Rev. John Conroe and the Diocese of Rio Grande. Conroe, who is currently serving as a Navy Chaplain in Hawai'i, and assigned to Marine Corps Forces, Pacific, at Camp Smith, was ordained to the Sacred Order of Priests.  Because this ordination falls under the Diocese of Rio Grande, the ordination was performed by the the Rt. Rev. James Magness, Bishop Suffragan for Armed Services and Federal Ministries of the Episcopal Church, on behalf of Bishop Michael Vono and the Diocese of Rio Grande. 

Pictured above from left are:  The Very Rev. Canon F. Michael Perko, the Rt. Rev. James Magness, and the Rev. Jon Conroe; Conroe and Emmanuel Vicar, the Rev. Matthew Lukens, share Communion; and Conroe with Evelyn Tam, who sewed the special stole he is wearing as a gift from Emmanuel.  (Photos by Sonny Liu)
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Emmanuel Prays for Orlando Victims

Inspired by the actions of Fr. Moki Hino and the members of Holy Apostles in Hilo, who created and displayed crosses for each of the fallen victims of the Orlando shooting tragedy (story HERE), folks at Emmanuel came together to follow suit.  On Saturday, June 18, they prayed over the fifty crosses constructed that afternoon, and displayed them on the front lawn of the church. After several weeks, people were invited to take the crosses home and continue to pray for the victims and their families. (Photos by Matt Tonokawa from the Emmanuel Facebook page)
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St. Elizabeth's Saturday Breakfasts
Every Saturday morning at St. Elizabeth's Episcopal Church in Honolulu, you will hear the sizzle of bacon on the grill, the cracking of eggs into large mixing bowls and the sounds of laughter as volunteers mingle with their houseless guests for a hot start-off-the-day-right breakfast. More recently, poi, kalua pig and other luau fare have been added to the menu thanks to Dcn. Steve Costa, who has arranged for left-overs from a Friday luau to be shared.  Foot washing of our guests takes place at the back of the church hall, where folks not used to being touched by another human being can experience the warmth of God's love for all people. Clothing and footwear is also distributed. The Lino family heads this ministry up with tons of support from many folks, including teens from our private and public schools.

Pictured above, the meal always begins with prayer; manning the food tables are Josh Yuen-Schat, Seini Lino, Naomi Yuen-Schat, Daniel Yuen Schat and Josh Lino; grateful patrons enjoy the delicious meal.  (From St. Elizabeth's newsletter and website)

ECWO: EPISCOPAL CHURCH OF WEST O'AHU

St. Nicholas Welcomes Fr. JaR

On Sunday, July 17, 2016, the Rev. Ernesto "JaR" Pasalo, Jr. celebrated his first Sunday service with St. Nicholas Episcopal Church in Kapolei as their Vicar. Pictured at left is Fr. JaR holding a welcome gift presented to him from St. Nick's, and leading the service. (Photos by David Jones)

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Lending a Hand at the House of Blessings Project

The Rev. Kaleo Patterson was on hand to help with the installation of 60 new beds at the House of Blessings Project in Wahiawa.  On June 28, 2016, Dr. Ha'aheo Guanson and her U.H. Peace students spent the day assembling the beds that will serve Wahiawa's houseless and those in need. Pictured above at far right is Guanson (black blouse) and Michelle Umemoto, Executive Director of House of Blessings.  (Photos by Kaleo Patterson)
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St. John the Baptist Music and Children
Pictured above are Loea Akiona, Bill Akiona and Portia Fenton, keeping music alive and well at St. John the Baptist Episcopal Church in Waianae. Behind them is the children's worship team clearly enjoying the music and taking their responsibilities seriously.  (Photo by Kaleo Patterson)
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St. Timothy's Food Pantry Relocates

St. Timothy's Episcopal Church in Aiea spent the day moving their food pantry into a new location into one of the classrooms of the Kama'aina School building nearby.  Pictured above, members work hard assembling shelves, moving in boxes and stocking the new facility. (Photo from St. Timothy's weekly e-news.)
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Celebrating Father's Day in a BIG Way!

The folks at St. Stephen's Episcopal Church in Wahiawa don't fool around when it comes to food. On Father's Day, June 19, 2016, the women got together to create a ten-foot hero sandwich fit for a hero!  (Photo contributed by Kaleo Patterson)
 
KAUA'I PARISH NEWS

Fun In Fellowship through Dodgeball

The 11th Annual Fun in Fellowship (FiF) Dodgeball Tournament took place on July 22-23, 2016, at the All Saints' Gym in Kapa'a. The program, which has drawn as many as 300 participants and 45 teams from around the state and mainland, has been one of the more popular sporting summer events on Kaua'i. After ten years, this year's tournament was run by a new team of volunteers, although several "old-timers" showed up to make sure things ran smoothly. 

In a surprise appearance, the Evers family (pictured at top) from Washington, returned as Team "Whole Damn Fam."  They had participated in the very first tournament in 2006, and are shown at left with the late Mayor Bryan Baptiste. The family was vacationing on Kaua'i and decided to participate after seeing the roadside banner. This year (above right) they came prepared with sharp uniforms and a winning attitude! 

Pictured at right, All Saints' youth, who were just toddlers when the first tournament took place, are now veterans in the sport and also serve as referees. This year's tournament featured over 150 participants and 22 teams, and continues to generate joy and excitement in the community.  (Current photos contributed by All Saints' Church, 2006 photo by S. Nishioka)
 
MAUI PARISH NEWS

Lots to Celebrate at Good Shepherd!

The folks at Good Shepherd Episcopal Church in Wailuku, have a lot to celebrate!  On Saturday, July 30, 2016, local "boy" and devoted servant of God, John Hau'oli Tomoso was ordained to the Priesthood (see article above), and is now serving at Good Shepherd as a Priest Associate. Rev. Tomoso's ordination was a huge event in itself, but it also served to kick-off a year-long celebration of Good Shepherd's 150th Anniversary!  Pictured above, tons of food, music, and dancing (of every sort) made for a festive event.  Trinity By-the-Sea Episcopal Church joined in on the fun and worked hard alongside Good Shepherd members to make it a most memorable event!  (Photos from the Good Shepherd Facebook page)
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Trinity By-the-Sea Welcomes Fr. DeGooyer

Trinity By-the-Sea Episcopal Church in Kihei, welcomed their new Vicar, the Rev. Bruce DeGooyer, just in time for all the celebrating at sister church Good Shepherd, and a visitation by the Bishop the following day. Pictured above, Fr. DeGooyer stands second from right next to Bishop Fitzpatrick. Trinity's unique outdoor setting (caused by a storm that destroyed the church walls) provides a beautiful tropical backdrop that is often used for weddings.  (Photos from the Trinity BTS e-news) 

THE BIG ISLAND OF HAWAI'I PARISH NEWS

Vacation Bible School Fun!

VBS is mighty popular at our Big Island churches, and St. Augustine's Episcopal Church in Kapa'au might be on to something! In June, they offered up Vacation Bible School with the theme "Deep Sea Discovery: God is With Me Wherever I Go" led by Kathy Matsuda.  But unlike most VBS programs, this one was offered during evening hours from 6:00 - 8:00 PM!  The idea was to give parents a break from having to prepare dinner for the kids.  From the number of children in this picture, it looks like it was a mighty popular idea!  (Photo from the St. Augustine Newsletter)


Meanwhile, the Surf Shack at St. James' Episcopal Church in Kamuela, had their kids ready for summer action with sunglasses and surfboards, while another class (pictured at right) heads off to neighboring Annunciation Church to share toiletry bags that they made.  The bags will be distributed through Annunciation's Food Pantry to those in need.  (Photos from the St. James' Congregations weekly e-news) 
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St. Augustine's Scholarship Awards
Each year, St. Augustine's awards scholarships to students attending college and vocational schools. The scholarships are designed to assist students with their tuition and cost of living expenses while attending college and represents spiritual and financial support by the church for the educational pursuits of the students.  The scholarship fund is one of the larger educational funds available to students in North Kohala and is renewed annually with the goal to distribute all of the monies each year.  As a result the amount available for individual scholarships varies each year.  The money for the fund is given anonymously by church members. 

This year's award ceremony took place on June 19, 2016. During the awards ceremony, students shared their educational goals and progress with the congregation.  Pictured at left are this year's scholarship recipients: Jayvimar Arellano (Jerome standing in for Jaymar), Jacob Andrews, Kahealani Kaku, Kassie Kometani, Melanie Sahagun and Michelle Sahagun.  (Photo from St. Augustine's June/July Newsletter)
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Convoy of Hope

In July, St. James' members volunteered with Convoy of Hope, a faith-based, nonprofit organization that held their first event on the Big Island of Hawai'i, and it was a huge success! Over 1,000 volunteers from 40 churches and 48 organizations provided services to 5,000 "guests".  In total, Convoy of Hope provided guests with the following:
  • 2,300 pairs of slippers
  • 1,931 pairs of children's shoes
  • Clothing to 475 people
  • 300 haircuts
  • 137 eye exams
  • 986 women serviced by the National Breast Cancer Foundation
  • 150 people received Health Services from a variety of organizations
  • 200 people were served in the Job and Career Services Tent with 120 completing job applications
  • 1,000 Kids' backpacks 
  • 5,005 bags of groceries 
  • 2,000 Kid's visited the Kid's Zone.
Pictured above are St. James' members who volunteered at the event: Susan Acacio, Suzette Lee, Karen Sanchez, Laurie Rosa, and Karen's two granddaughters, Hannah and Kailani.  (Missing from the picture is Jada Rufo.) They volunteered in the Kid's Zone. Many thanks to Lynn Wung, the St. James' Bookkeeper/Office Assistant, who organized the Kid's Zone on behalf of her church and St. James'. For more information about Convoy of Hope, click HERE.  (Photo from the St. James' Congregations weekly e-news)


THE EPISCOPAL CHURCH & BEYOND

The Episcopal Church Celebrates Bishop Browning's Life
By Leslie Davis via Episcopal News Service
  
[Episcopal Diocese of Oregon] The Episcopal Church bid farewell to Bishop Edmond Lee Browning, the church's 24th presiding bishop, on July 19, at Trinity Cathedral in Portland, Oregon.
 
Browning died on July 11 at the age of 87. He lived in Hood River, Oregon. A funeral liturgy was held July 17, at St. Mark's Episcopal Church, Hood River, and another service is planned at Cathedral of St. Andrew in Honolulu, Hawaii.

Leaders in the Episcopal Church traveled from around the country to join in celebration of a life that brought profound change to the church and the world. The Rt. Rev. Frank T. Griswold, 25th presiding bishop, delivered the homily. Griswold described Browning's death day as his "birth day" - into eternity. The Rt. Rev. Katharine Jefferts Schori, 26th presiding bishop, led the post-communion prayer. Current Presiding Bishop Michael B. Curry closed the service with a resounding blessing of the people.

The Rev. Gay Clark Jennings, current president of the church's House of Deputies, and Bonnie Anderson, her predecessor, also participated in the service.  

The Rev. Curtis Almquist, SSJE, described Browning in terms of the kindness, joy and humility he brought to every task.

The Rev. Brian Grieves, a colleague of Browning's, read a statement from Cape Town Archbishop Emeritus Desmond Tutu. "Whether he was advocating for women, lay people, people of color or gays and lesbians and others to be fully included in the life of the church, he became a conscience for justice that you are still building on now," Tutu said.  "Keep on with the journey.  And should you forget, Patti (Browning's wife) will remind you."

Browning visited South Africa "during our darkest days and gave us encouragement and hope," he said. "He fiercely challenged U.S. politicians and corporations to bring an end to the evil of apartheid."

Tutu recalled that Browning also stood against "another apartheid - the injustice of the occupation of 4 million Palestinians."

To the remembrances of colleagues were added that of Browning's oldest son, the Hon. R. Mark Browning, judge of the first circuit court of Oahu, Hawaii. He recounted his own upbringing and the role of his strong mother, Patti Browning, in opening their home and table to all. His parents' marriage was a "magnificent love story," he said. The couple raised five children during a career that included time in Okinawa, Texas, Hawai'i and Europe. The Browning grandchildren led the congregation in prayer.

Browning leaves a legacy of opening the church, making it a place where "there will be no outcasts," in his words. Known for taking theologically liberal stances, he fought institutional racism and other forms of injustice. Browning worked for full inclusion of LGBT people in the life of the church. He had a place in other important milestones. For example, in 1989 he consecrated the Rev. Barbara Harris of the Diocese of Massachusetts as the first female bishop in the Episcopal Church and in the Anglican Communion.

Browning was ordained as a deacon on July 2, 1954, and as a priest on May 23, 1955. He was the 6th bishop of Hawai'i and was elected presiding bishop at the 68th General Convention in Anaheim, California, in September 1985 and served for 12 years.

The service for Browning gave those in attendance a sense of his deep love for family, his open heart, and his unflagging struggle for justice and inclusion. At his installation sermon in 1986, he invoked the spirit of activism and hope: "Let us live out a mission that seeks to rescue the world from its present peril, to save those drowning in a raging river of despair, to rescue those caught in a wasteland of hopelessness. Let us commit ourselves to give the waters of baptism to those who thirst for justice."

Previous ENS coverage of Browning's death and the other tributes made to him can be foound  HERE.

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:
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The deadline for submissions in the next October issue is September 15, 2016.