TheParish&SchoolNewsA SPECIAL FEATURE OF THE HAWAII CATHOLIC HERALDOCTOBER 25, 2013

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This special Parish and School News section celebrates the Year of Faith which comes to a close in a few weeks. Pope Benedict XVI announced the year — Oct. 11, 2012, to Nov. 24, 2013 — as a “summons to an authen-tic and renewed conversion to the Lord, the One Savior of the world.”

Bishop Larry Silva called the Year of Faith a special time “meant to renew the entire People of God to not only receive the faith and rejoice in it, but to share the faith boldly with others.”

For this section, the Hawaii Catholic Herald asked par-ishes and schools to report on what they did to observe the year of faith.

1 PEARL CITY

Our Lady of Good Counsel ParishCelebrating the YEAR OF FAITH was a memorable faith-filled year at our par-ish. We welcomed a new pastor, Father Khanh Hoang. Other activities included a monthly Anoint-ing of the Sick Mass, potluck breakfasts after each weekday Mass, a new shrine of Our Lady of Good Counsel in the new court-yard, the relocating of the statue of the Sacred Heart to face Waimano Home Road, remodeling the back church courtyard to enhance Our Lady’s shrine, paving the parking lots, and planting lots of flowers around the buildings. To top it all, a new tabernacle (pictured) is in the sanctuary! The Xavier Club included in their monthly meetings top-ics such as faith, prayer and resurrection. Emphasized was the prime importance of reading the Bible. Many parishioners were involved in the projects, expressing: This is God’s church, we are the caretakers. (Reported by Mike Lee and Elaine Yamashita)

2 EWA BEACH

Our Lady of Perpetual Help ParishAbout 150 attended the par-ish’s Community Action Network Training Oct. 9 with guest presenters Dea-con Walter Yoshimitsu, executive director of Hawaii Catholic Conference; Eva Andrade, executive direc-tor for Hawaii Family Forum; and lawyer James Hoch-berg from Hawaii Family Advocates and the local Al-liance Defending Freedom. Deacon Yoshimitsu gave an overview of “Forming Con-sciences for Faithful Citizen-ship,” a document from the

U.S. Conference of Cath-olic Bishops. Quoting from the document, the Deacon said that “responsible citizen-ship is a virtue and participa-tion in political life is a moral obligation.” When electing public officials, he said we should vote our conscience “guided more by our moral convictions rather than by our attachment to a political party.” Andrade spoke about the uniqueness of Hawaii due to the “spirit of love.” She explained that Christians in Hawaii cannot be silent. They need to participate in the public and political arena to protect the future of the children, families and our religious freedom. Hochberg reviewed a draft of the same-sex marriage bill before the legislature and explained why the so-called “religious exemptions” are not accept-able. Pictured is Matthew Hines, left, clarifying a point with Hochberg. (Reported by Julia Torres)

PAPAIKOU

Immaculate Heart of Mary ParishOur YEAR OF FAITH began with a liturgical celebration attended by parishioners of the East Hawaii Vicari-ate. Soon after, the parish established a faith forma-tion ministry to offer programs for parishioners to deepen their faith through devotions, retreats, Bible study and formation sessions. … In an effort to increase parish devotion to the ro-sary, the rosary was recited before all Masses on the first Saturdays and Sundays of the month, and for October, the month of the Rosary, every Saturday and Sunday. … In the spirit of evangeliza-tion, using Paulist Evan-

gelization Ministries, parishioners invited family and friends who were dis-connected from their faith to attend six-week sessions. … A core of faith formation ministers participated in the YEAR OF FAITH webinars, sharing their faith more vi-brantly with the parish. … The parish will soon begin a Marian retreat “33 Days to Morning Glory,” a Hearts a Fire small-group parish-based program. … The par-ish will bring the YEAR OF FAITH to conclusion with a concert of East Hawaii Vicari-ate choirs. The Aha Mele concert will be a joyous celebration of voices singing their faith. … The YEAR OF FAITH comes to a close, but the evangelization that brings ourselves and others to a renewal of faith and a deeper conversion to Our Lord Jesus Christ is ongoing. The par-ish continues to be open to renewal opportunities in our faith journey. (Reported by Louise Isherwood)

3 WAIMEA

Annunciation of the Lord ParishThe religious education students had a fun day at Hapuna Beach Oct. 6 coor-dinated by Jane Aganus. Parents brought food and our chefs Barron and Cathy Bertelmann and Duane Uyetake grilled the meat. Everyone, including Father Stephen Macedo who joined us for lunch, had a great day at the beach. … The parish youth group Bible retreat took place June 9-10 at Deacon Larry and Carole Ignacio’s ranch in Paauilo Mauka where the deacon built a small western town with a new addition, a chapel. Our

retreat journey started with Sunday Mass. The next two days were filled with fellow-ship, Bible study, reflections, ice breakers and games or-ganized by Liz Chock. The deacon has a zip line that the kids commandeered and the cutest donkey you ever saw named Jesus who followed him everywhere. He was always in the center of our prayer circle. Bobby Tex-eira brought his guitar for music around the campfire. Aunty Liz even assigned the group to KP duty. For Bible study in the chapel, Deacon Larry assigned each teen a Bible chapter to interpret. They all slept under the stars both nights. The retreat was so spiritual and solemn, the group surely discovered its real purpose and it no doubt created lasting memories. We thank Deacon Larry for making it possible and of-fering his time with the kids. We also thank Father Bob Schwarzhaupt for his support. Thanks also goes to Jane Aganus, Liz Chock, Bobby and June Texeira, Justine Desalvo and Rhonda Peck for their help as well. Pictured are the youth dressed up in western gear, Debri Ann Sleight-holm, Isaiah Fernandez, Rachel Higaki, Elijah Fernandez, Cayla Bertel-mann, Taylor Neubecker, Brittany Echavez, Sher-mae Abida, Kawaiola Peck, Krisella Gabriel, Marisa Saito, Michael Higaki. (Reported by Rhonda Peck with additions by Lisa Wells)

4 KALAHEO

Holy Cross ParishIn this YEAR OF FAITH, the parish picnic took place Sept. 15, a day after

the parish’s feast day — the Exaltation of the Holy Cross. Everyone, young and old, relaxed and enjoyed the food, fellowship, fun, the fish pond, games, bingo, prizes, face painting, and of course, the waterslide. … The Kauai Vicariate celebrated the YEAR OF FAITH with a vicariate family day picnic at Lydgate Park on Aug. 3. Sacred Hearts Father Herman Gomes was the homilist for the morn-ing Mass. Parishioners and families from the island’s five parishes enjoyed the day which began with praise and worship. The beautiful Eucharistic celebration was followed by lunch, fellowship and after-lunch music. The younger attendees cooled off on the waterslide. … Another vicariate YEAR OF FAITH event was the Life in the Spirit Seminar Sept. 13-14 in the Holy Cross Parish Hall. The charismatic groups from St. Catherine and Holy Cross sponsored the seminar with help from leaders and speakers from the Hawaii Charismatic group. Brenda Viado of St. Catherine and Linda Silva of Holy Cross, members of the sponsoring groups, were quite happy at the success of the seminar. … The choirs of Holy Cross and Sacred Heart churches and the youth choir, consisting of EDGE/Confirmation/Youth Ministry members, shared their voices, music and faith with the rest of the parish at our very own YEAR OF FAITH Praise and Worship Concert Aug. 18. The concert theme was the four pillars of the church — the Sacraments, the Creed, the Commandments and the Lord’s Prayer. Thank you to all the choirs and parishio-

ners who made this first con-cert a success. Pictured are dancers doing the hula to the Hawaiian language version of “The Prayer” sung by the 6:45 a.m. Mass choir. (Re-ported by Judy Cabanting)

5 KAHULUI

Christ the King ParishThe parish celebrated its first Reconciliation Night and Banquet Sept. 9. to commemorate the feast of Our Lady of La Sallette, the reconciler for sinners. Parishioners received the Sacrament of Reconcilia-tion followed by a banquet prepared and cooked by the clergy. The $15-per-person meal was a parish fundraiser. Pictured is associate pastor Father Joseph carrying the statue of Our Lady of La Sallette and pastor Father Adondee Arellano leading us a song for the procession to the church hall for the banquet. Thank you so much for being a part of this much needed fundraiser. God bless everyone! Let us continue to share our faith and the goodness of our heart be-cause God loves us so much! (Reported by Audie Pascual; photo by Paul Pigao)

6 EWA

Immaculate Conception ParishFaithful to the YEAR OF FAITH, in a true testament of faith, our first Saturday of the month group, entitled Holy Mary’s Ark of Sal-vation, recently marked its 18th anniversary of con-tinued devotion to Mother Mary, the Blessed Sacrament, the Society of the Child Jesus and the Divine Mercy. Estab-lished in Guam in 1995 and currently under the direction of Winnie Martinez, the

Holy Mary’s Ark of Salvation Group continues to attract more and more faithful ser-vants to this special devotion. At First Saturday, Oct. 5, this reporter was astounded to see attendees from other par-ishes including Our Lady of Perpetual Help and St. Elizabeth, and dozens of our youth. Let us all pray for continued faith and devotion to Holy Mary’s Ark of Salva-tion. (Reported by Normand H.J. Robert)

NUUANU

St. Stephen ParishOn Oct. 4, the feast of St. Francis of Assisi, parish-ioners were invited to bring their pets for the 5: 30 p.m. blessing of animals in the grass area between the SPAM building and the church. All recited the “Canticle of the Sun” and the “Prayer of St. Francis.” Father Khanh Pham-Nguyen blessed 10 dogs, one kitten and two birds. Refreshments followed. St Francis loved all creatures with mercy, compassion, kindness and love. Mahalo to Rachel Heafner and Madison Seto for planning our pet blessing and to Fa-ther Khanh for his blessings. (Reported by Ginny Jordan)

KULIOUOU

Holy Trinity ParishOur parishioners Claude and MaryRose Timmons-Colton will have their farm animals at the Waimanalo Pumpkin Patch. Family fun for everyone! Hay rides, games and food. October weekends, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., at 41-225 Lupe Street in Waimanalo. Teen volunteers are needed. Please call 396-0551 or email MaryRose at trinity4prolife@gmail.com. (From the parish bulletin)

7 HAWI

Sacred Heart ParishIn this YEAR OF FAITH we have become greater witnesses to Jesus and have had a greater impact on our

families and our communi-ties. For 10 weeks every Wednesday morning and evening, many parishioners viewed the “Catholicism” DVD series in St. Damien Hall. A different DVD on a new subject was viewed each week. … We will commemo-rate the Feast of All Saints on Friday, Nov. 1. After a short prayer service, we will celebrate with food, fun and games. Children and people of all ages are invited. … In the spirit of St. Francis of Assisi, we celebrated the blessings of animals and pets. The congregation included 16 dogs, two cats, two birds and one horse. The pets were well behaved and prayerful. Pictured are Father Bob Schwarzhaupt, Caylah Carvalho and horse. (Re-ported by Lee Rivera; photo by Maile Lincoln)

8 WAIHEE

St. Ann ParishOver the weekend of Oct. 12-13, parish acolytes received a blessing from Father De Lota to serve our Lord as ministers and altar servers in the most holy sacrament of the Mass. It is through this ministry that we hope our youth further commit themselves to Jesus and the church. As a faith community, we pray the Lord increase our faith and strengthen our personal rela-tionship with him. (Reported by Frances Asuncion; photo by Kim Phillips)

9 WAILUKU

St. Anthony Junior-Senior High SchoolOne photo or event cannot capture the faith that is alive and well at our school. On a typical day, students and/or teachers lead prayer in the classroom and as-semblies. Birthdays are celebrated daily culminat-ing with a birthday blessing song, hands outstretched over the blushing honorees. At monthly Masses, each

division leads the student body and guests in praise and worship. Faith is also lived out in the athletic arena with prayers for the safety of the team and its competitors. The school’s, “Strength in Unity,” expresses the faith life of the entire St. Anthony ohana. In the school logo, a ring enmeshed with the cross symbolizes the continuation of a tradition that has existed for 165 years. Faith is a daily reminder of the school’s com-mitment to each person, to build the Kingdom of God in prayer, words and action. Faith is shared at St. Anthony. We live the teachings daily, through prayer and works, continuing Jesus mission of spreading the Good News to all. We welcome all to walk on our campus and let us share our faith with you. (Re-ported by Janice Pruett)

WAILUKU

St. Anthony Parish

Our annual parish fall bazaar is Oct. 26. Tracey Pagan is heading a commit-tee of volunteer cooks and vendors who will display and sell their goods from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Laulau maker Joe Cardoza would appreciate his helpers showing up on Oct. 22 and 23 to prepare for this one item as a major fund raiser. … On Oct. 18, a memorial Mass will be of-fered for Marianist Father Gerald Pleva who spent his last three years working at St. Anthony and who died in San Antonio on Sept 25. May he rest in peace. … The Luminary Ceremony for All Souls Day is Nov. 1 at the 6 p.m. service. Bags and candles are available for sale at the church office. And this year when the bags are re-turned for display, the users are being asked to donate a can of food to be donated to the Food Bank. (Reported by Miriam Kahalekai)

WAIALUA

St. Michael ParishOn Oct. 23, the parish wel-comed from India Sacred Hearts Fathers Stephen Banjare and Bibudha Nayak, who with pastor Fa-ther Christopher Keahi attended the Sacred Hearts Assembly in Santa Barbara, Calif. The two visiting priests took up a special collection for their work in India. Join-ing them in Santa Barbara were Sacred Hearts brothers Michael Kamauoha and Jeremy Sabugo. (From the parish bulletin)

HONOLULU

Sts. Peter and Paul ParishThe Honolulu Police De-partment issued a couple of helpful alerts to parishioners. First that there have been reports of jewelry snatchers in the area and that people should be alert, but not paranoid. Second, the HPD gave the parish pamphlets on pedestrian and driver safety. The blue ones are in English and the yellow and red ones are in multiple lan-guages. The pamphlets may be picked up as you leave church. (From the parish bul-letin)

10 MOLOKAI

St. Damien ParishFor the YEAR OF FAITH, our parish hosted a well-attended Marianist MILAC concert for the Molokai Community on Oct. 1 at our new church. The MILAC (Molokai Island Liturgy and Arts Conference) concert was held in conjunction with the annual BILAC event on Oahu. The parish welcomed well known Hawaiian musi-cian and songwriter Joe Camacho, cantor Pau-lette Ching, and nationally known religious songwriter Bobby Fisher. Marianist Brother Dennis Schmitz served as emcee and added to the evening festivities by leading a spiritual hula. Audience participation was

great and the community was filled with the Spirit. The parish thanks the Diocese of Honolulu for sponsoring the concert. Pictured, from left, are Camacho, Ching, Fisher and Brother Dennis. (Report-ed by Maria Sullivan)

11 KAILUA-KONA

St. Michael ParishSeveral Bible study courses were held during the YEAR OF FAITH. Pictured are parishioners studying the peace and justice course with Father Anthony Rapozo. Pictured from left, sitting: Mindy Finnegan, Zola Ingram and Shir-ley David. Standing: Joe Reynolds, Ed Finnegan, Cynthia Taylor, Sandy Manual, Jack Ingram, Bill Culhane, Father Rapozo. (Reported by Shir-ley David)

12 WAIPAHU

St. Joseph ParishThe parish’s AGAPE Min-istry had its 101st youth retreat Oct. 4-6 at St. Anthony Retreat Center in Kalihi Valley. The retreat’s youth directors were Nikko Magtoto and Kris Hazen Tabaquin. The adult di-rectors were Al and Geri Simbahon and the spiritual directors were La Salette Father Efren Tomas and Deacon Wally Mitsui. (Re-ported by Jonathan de Leon)

13 MAKAKILO

St. Jude ParishIn conjunction with the YEAR OF FAITH activities, our parish held workshops open to all parishioners. Father Nicholas Apetorg-bor gave catechism classes on the church and men’s retreat; Maxine Pollock, pictured, offered a women’s retreat and catechist retreat; and Deacon Modesto Cordero of the Office of Worship presented a work-shop on “The Mass: From Greeting to Dismissal.” (Re-ported by Caren Argenzia)

14 MAKAWAO

St. Joseph ParishChildren, youth, young adults and elders attend-ed the Encounter Young Adult Speaker Series, the first of many more to come, on Sept. 19 at our church in Makawao, Maui. Our featured speaker was Maui’s own Father Adondee from Christ the King Church in Kahului, whose challenge to us all was to encounter Christ each and every day in prayer, at work and at rest. Great fun was had by all as we encoun-tered our risen Christ in the sharing of food and conversa-tion. Thumbs up, Makana Aiona, as you work your mission for Christ in these is-lands! Can’t wait for the next one! (Reported by C. Ah Puck) More than 65 people prayed the rosary Oct 12 at St. Jo-seph Church, Makawao. The rally was for human efforts to solve America’s key prob-lem. We turn to God through his Holy Mother, asking his urgent help. (Reported by Donna Pico; photo by Daisy Muego)

15 HAIKU

St. Rita ParishDuring this YEAR OF FAITH, our parish was blessed with procuring the land under our church. With the efforts of Father Pat-rick Freitas (now retired) we now own this land that had been leased for more than 90 years. We thank God for our land and our church. Every year will be a YEAR OF FAITH for our little parish in Haiku. With the support of our pastor and ad-ministrator Father Rufino Gepiga, St. Rita is reaching out to our community. We are networking with other parishes and community services to feed the hungry. Our ministers of Communion visit the homebound and sick weekly bringing the Eucha-rist, hope and comfort. The parish youth visit the home-bound bringing good news of our parish and songs of joy. These are some of the ways we are reaching out to our brothers and sisters in need. Each day, week, month and year is a celebration of faith, a gift that is given to all. Pic-tured are parishioners with Father Rufino at the annual July picnic celebration of our patron St. Rita. (Reported by Esther Yap)

16 KAHUKU

St. Roch ParishOn Oct. 12, our parishio-ners joined thousands of other communities through-out America to pray the rosary in public in honor of Our Lady of Fatima. While so many in our nation increasingly diminish the expression of public prayer, our parishioners felt it was important to publicly express their faith to their communi-ty in this YEAR OF FAITH. Shortly before noon, the group gathered on the parish lawn alongside Kamehameha Highway with a banner invit-ing all to join them in pray-ing for our nation. They dis-played their banner proudly as they waved to passing cars and pedestrians, and then gathered at Our Lady’s Grot-

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to to pray the rosary for our nation. All agreed that this was such a blessed rally and look forward to celebrating it again next year. (Reported by Walter Weinzheimer)

17 PALAMA

Co-Cathedral of St. TheresaOct. 1 was the feast of St. Therese, the parish pa-troness. Many parishioners and visitors attended the feast day Mass celebrated by Father Greg Honorio and Deacon Roy Matsuo who honored St. Therese for her everyday practices of reflection with God. The lunch that followed featured performances by parishioners and St. Theresa School students. It was a feast day celebration indeed! (Reported by Oswald Bumanglag)

18 KIHEI

St. Theresa ParishOur parish had a double cele-bration with an international theme Oct. 13 after the 9:30 a.m. Mass. The readings and universal prayers were read in different languages, repre-senting the ethnicities of the parish. After Mass there was a procession to the courtyard where the new permanent parish outdoor stage was blessed. The stage was a gift from the Filipino Catho-lic Club and its president Rey Golino and the other members who raised the money with their Flores de Mayo pageant. Everyone then enjoyed an international potluck. The new stage was put to immediate and good use with entertainment of all sorts, including hulas, flamenco, hip hop dancing and more, lasting well into the afternoon. The stage will be especially useful at Easter when two Masses are said simultaneously to accommo-date our large congregation. Thanks to the Filipino Catho-lic Club, the portable stage previously used will no lon-ger be necessary, and many groups will have the new one for their activities. Pictured is pastor Father Terry Wata-nabe with members of the Filipino Catholic Club at the new stage. (Reported by Anita Carrington; photo by Leroy Carrington)

19 PEARL CITY

Our Lady of Good Counsel SchoolLiving in paradise here in Hawaii, we are fortunate to be able to spend our time un-winding at the beach, enjoy-ing the waves and the sand between our toes, relaxing in the sun. There are many who call the beach their home. No, not beachfront property owners. In fact, many do not have a permanent roof above their heads. In Waikiki, be-tween the Waikiki Aquarium and Queen’s Surf restrooms, on any given Saturday morn-ing, you will find a line of people waiting to partake in the banquet prepared for them. The menu may not be lavish, but the delicious, hot, home-cooked meals are made with lots of aloha, and are welcomed and appreci-ated by many who would otherwise go hungry. The feeding of the homeless ministry in Waikiki is coor-

dinated by our school’s reli-

gion teacher Dominic Ola-so and is comprised and sup-

ported by others from around

the island, including families,

schools, clergy and individu-

als just wanting to help out.

Pictured are our seventh and eighth grade stu-dents, their families and staff members who came

out at 6 a.m. on Sept. 14 to

thank God for all that he’s

done for them by spreading

his word through their ac-

tions. If you would like to

come out and help, please

arrive before 6 a.m. You may

contact Mr. D through OLGC

School. Your heart and soul

will thank you! (Reported by

Ginger Kamisugi)

20 HONOLULU

Sacred Hearts Academy High School

Our students and faculty

celebrated the YEAR OF FAITH in special ways dur-

ing the first week of October.

High school classes

gathered in St. Margaret

Mary Chapel to pray the ro-

sary reflecting on the special

mysteries prepared for the

YEAR OF FAITH. On Oct.

4, the school gathered to

celebrate Mass with Sacred Hearts Father David Lupo and prayed for deeper

faith and world peace. As

a Communion meditation,

through sacred gestures, the

assembly asked that peace,

faith, hope and love might go

before them, behind them,

be under their feet, be within

them, over them, and all

around them. In this YEAR OF FAITH, the students and

faculty invoked Mary, the Mother of Jesus, to obtain

for them the grace to cooper-

ate fully with God’s loving

will. (Reported by Hayley

Matson-Mathes)

21 EWA BEACH

Our Lady of Perpetual Help School

Our school joined the world Catholic community in celebrating the YEAR OF FAITH. As part of the cel-ebration, we participated in the Hawaii Catholic Schools Choral Festival, under the direction of com-poser John Gruler III. Our choir performed a beautifully arranged medley narrating the amazing and faith-filled journey of St. Marianne Cope, Beloved Mother of Outcasts. The school choir has performed for the par-ish community and at school events, spreading a message of love and faith. The choir’s last performance was Oct. 13, during the Palolo Chi-nese Nursing Home’s anniversary celebration, where the students cheered and entertained residents and guests. The students also gave each nursing home resi-dent special gifts and cards expressing their love and prayers. (Reported by S. Patri-cia White; photo by Michelle Baldueza Ponce)

22 HONOLULU

Cathedral Catholic Academy

Our students participated in an International Day of Peace poster contest and some of them placed and earned cash prizes. Congrat-ulations to our peace poster contest winners! Grades K-3: 1st place, Moani ($50 prize) pictured right; 2nd place, Reina ($35 prize); 3rd place, Samantha ($25 prize); 3rd place Kira ($25 prize); 3rd place Kaitlin ($25 prize). Grades 4-6: 1st place, Lyla; 2nd place, Brooke; 3rd place, Leah. (Reported by Michael Paeku-kui)

KANEOHE

St. Ann Model SchoolsWe incorporated the YEAR OF FAITH into our 2012-2013 school year theme: “Hold Fast to the Vision ... Journey in Faith.” Teach-ers began the year with an in-service that included an introduction to the YEAR OF FAITH by Father Jack Ryan. Catechists in our religious ed and youth ministry programs were introduced to the YEAR OF FAITH and spirituality through a talk by Benedic-tine Sister Celeste C.C. Cabral. We believe the best way to celebrate the YEAR OF FAITH is to strengthen the Catholic identity in our classrooms and on campus so that all can see we are a faith-filled community, trying to live as Jesus did. Our goal was to invigorate our faith by incorporating it into our day-to-day practices. Students in all programs participated in monthly prayer services and Masses, including a youth Mass with St. Pat-rick School students. We prayed the rosary every day in October and the Stations of the Cross weekly dur-ing Lent. Special guests like Daughter of St. Paul Sister Irene Regina spoke about vocations to the fifth graders, and noted musician Tom Booth conducted a faith talk to grades one through eight. Our retreat program high-lighted prayer, Eucharist, lov-ing obedience and friendship in Christ, vocations, saints, Lenten journey and Christian leadership. Our service learning projects took our faith out to the wider community, from our parish’s food pantry to the neighbor-hood parks and beaches, to providing books to those less fortunate and toiletries to the homeless, to feeding the hungry through a global organization. The YEAR OF

FAITH was a call to rejuve-nate our faith and entwine it into everything we do. Even as the year comes to a close, we continue to celebrate it with our new school year theme: “Alive in the Spirit.” Pope Francis says Jesus gives the Holy Spirit to us as a friend who is our companion on our journey of faith. As we continue this journey, it is our hope that we will be open to the Holy Spirit to move in us and through us to bring color, energy and life to a new school year. (Reported by Kuulei Halemano)

23 HONOLULU

Holy Family Catholic AcademyLast year, Blessed Mari-anne Cope was proclaimed a saint in Rome on Oct. 21 just as the YEAR OF FAITH was beginning. In honor of her canonization, Mr. John Gruhler, a talented compos-er, was inspired to write an oratorio describing St. Mari-anne’s selfless work among those suffering from Hansen’s disease in Kalaupapa on Molokai. Mr. Gruhler’s incor-porated his moving composi-tion about Mother Marianne’s life into an interactive edu-cational presentation which he shared with the student body in two sessions Oct. 15. He wrote the oratorio honoring the Patron Saint of Outcasts to express how her selfless acts of mercy and humble service enabled God’s work to be accomplished here in Hawaii. The experience was an extraordinary way to learn more about the richness of our faith and the making of a saint! Mr. Gruhler returned to Holy Family for the school’s October Mass in celebration of St. Marianne Cope’s rise to sainthood. For this special occasion, he wrote two ad-ditional verses of “Feed the Flock” and worked diligently with the first graders in

presenting the original song to the school. Pictured are Mr. Gruhler and the first grade students and teachers after the Mass. (Reported by Chris-tina Malins; photo by Michelle Izon)

24 HONOLULU

Maryknoll SchoolWe celebrated the feast of St. Francis of Assisi at Mass Oct. 7 with a bless-ing of the children’s stuffed animals. It is a popular event around this time of year, commemorating the life of St. Francis who was the patron saint of animals. In this YEAR OF FAITH, the Maryknoll community reflects on prayer, and as a community the focus on prayer has been refreshed through our Masses. Pictured is Allyson and Nazareth Agcaoili and his stuffed dog. (Reported by Loryn Guif-fre; photo by Kyle Roche)

25 KAILUA

St. Anthony SchoolIn celebration of the YEAR OF FAITH, our parish and school combined creative ef-forts to produce a DVD and CD entitled “St. Anthony Prays the Rosary.” The DVD, which was recorded in the school library and edited in the technology lab, fea-tures photographs and chil-dren’s art set to a soundtrack of the rosary recited by chil-dren and parishioners. Fac-ulty members, students and parishioners worked on the production and edit-ing team. The DVDs and CDs were sold during Lent, with the proceeds going toward the school’s scholarship fund. The project strength-ened the relationship be-tween the church and school by sharing the message of the rosary and its importance to our community of faith. … In keeping with the theme of being servants, we became

servants of our earth with a school-wide micro-plastic clean up of Kailua Beach, pictured. More than 300 students, plus teachers and community helpers, re-moved 24 pounds of micro plastic from our beach in one hour. The plastic was recy-cled and used for art projects. The students learned about global responsibility and the power of the individual to make a difference. … As part of a safe and caring activity, the school commu-nity collected sundries and treats to donate to Catholic Charities for the elderly and homeless veterans. This project taught us the im-portance of caring for those who have cared for us! (Re-ported by Kristie Carpenter)

26 HONOLULU

Saint Louis SchoolWe marked the YEAR OF FAITH with a service out-reach on Sept. 21, sending some 50 students with par-ent and faculty chaperones to do general cleaning and maintenance at seven par-ishes around Oahu. “It was our hope that students will be able to give back to their neighborhood parishes in appreciation of the Catholic faith that is the foundation of their education at Saint Louis School,” said Eric Young, vice principal for student affairs. At Resurrection of the Lord Parish in Waipio, the students scraped the old paint from the parking lots curbing and weeded the new grass around the perimeter of the church grounds. At St. Augustine in Waikiki, stu-dents swept the sidewalks;

at St. Joseph, Waipahu, they cleared out a storage room. Pictured are students raking leaves at St. George Church in Waimanalo. “All Oahu parishes were invited to participate since our students come from across the island,” said Errol Christian, the director of community service. “It was a successful event in having students connect with the parishes in their neighbor-hood.” (Reported by Eric Young)

27 MAKAWAO

St. Joseph Early Learning CenterFor the YEAR OF FAITH, our school, in collabora-tion with pastor Father Eric Castro, established a “Book of the Month” club. Each month Father Eric will enjoin and highlight a biblical lesson in reference with a popular children’s book relatable to the stu-dents. The session also in-cludes songs and movement for the class. The children look forward to Father Eric, or “Father Nemo” as the preschoolers lovingly call him, coming to the classroom with his backpack of wonder-ful stories to share. This pho-to was taken last November. These sessions will continue every month and, with God’s grace, beyond the YEAR OF FAITH. (Reported by Helen Souza)

28 AIEA

St. Elizabeth SchoolOne way we celebrated the YEAR OF FAITH was with a Door of Faith in each classroom created by the

students. Each time students entered a classroom, the Door of Faith reminded them of who they are as children of God, and of their school-wide learning expecta-tions. Being cognizant of our Catholic values reminds us daily of our faith and our responsibilities as fol-lowers of Christ. Although the YEAR OF FAITH is soon coming to an end, our thoughts, efforts and beliefs displayed on our classroom doors will last a lifetime. (Re-ported by eighth graders Kimi and Catherine)

29 HONOLULU

St. John the Baptist SchoolDominican Sister Mark Berdin, along with her eighth grade religion class, wrote poems or ac-ronyms about faith. In her poem, Malia Ann Bal-buena talks about how the YEAR OF FAITH has impacted her life. She says, “The YEAR OF FAITH is a time for us to strengthen our bond with God and deepen our relationship. It is a time to renew and rediscover Christ and the church.” (Re-ported by Ainona Petelo)

30 KAPAA

St. Catherine SchoolDuring their fall intersession, several teachers and students joined with Sam-uel Mahelona Memorial Hospital in a breast can-cer awareness walk Oct. 4 on the bike path in Kapaa. This event raised more than $1,500 for the American Cancer Society. Our school has a service club which goes every Thursday to the

hospital to visit the long-term residents. Students play games, color, talk story and enjoy the company of the res-idents. One resident waits for us at the door every week. That resident was recently diagnosed with breast cancer. The hearts of the students went out to this patient and prompted us to join in the walk. (Reported by Madame Corbo)

31 KAILUA

St. John Vianney SchoolDuring November, the student body worked diligently on “Operation Christmas Child,” a program that demonstrates God’s love to needy children around the world. In groups, students and teachers col-lected toys, educational supplies, hygiene products, and other things which they sorted and placed in 67 boxes, with pictures they drew and letters they wrote, for distribution around the world. During this YEAR OF FAITH, school families continue to prove that they are a loving, caring and generous community! … Much of the seventh and eighth grade science curriculum focused on sus-tainability, going green and the importance of an eco-logical balance in our world. They worked hard designing, building and maintaining four aquaponic systems. They then asked Windward Oahu schools if they would be interested in receiving one or more of the systems as learning tools. The systems were delivered to Kamaaina Kids, Little Learners, Kailua

Elementary and KCCA Pre-school where students spent a half day setting them up and showing school advisors how they work. … On March 14, our seventh grade students reenacted the Stations of the Cross in mime for the student body, beneath a beautiful blue sky under the shade of the magnificent monkey pod tree on our Circle of Peace. Our audience of students, par-ents and faculty were deeply moved by the intensity of the stations brought to life be-fore their eyes. Our Catholic identity and faith were never so evident as that afternoon under the sun at St. John Vianney School. (Reported by Caryn DeMello)

32 WAIPAHU

St. Joseph SchoolHere we have celebrated the YEAR OF FAITH all year long. Prayers are said throughout each day, we have weekly school-wide worship and we also in-corporate kind words and actions all day long. More specifically, the faculty and staff had a spiritual de-velopment session at our weekly faculty meeting focus-ing on the article of our faith: “I believe in Jesus Christ.” We will also have a culminat-ing activity for the month of the Holy Rosary as well as to bring our YEAR OF FAITH to a close. Participating in this event on Oct. 31 will be the school faculty, staff, students and parents, as well as the parish staff, with each class serenading a Marian song every after each decade of the rosary. (Re-

ported by Keala Kia)

33 HONOLULU

St. Anthony SchoolThe seventh graders spon-sored the Sunday Family Mass at St. Anthony Church on Oct. 6. Every first Sunday of the month, one grade level from the school takes a turn sponsoring the family Mass. The angelic voices of the school choir led by Mrs. Corazon Aczon makes the Mass lively. Pictured are Father Manuel Dela Cruz and the parishioners bless-ing the October birthday celebrants. (Reported by Tess Reyes)

34 HONOLULU

St. Theresa SchoolOn Oct. 9, in honor of our Blessed Mother, the school gathered in the co-cathedral for a “Living Rosary.” In this beautiful practice, each class came to represent each bead of the rosary. In this YEAR OF FAITH, all of us raised in prayer together ask God, through the intercession of Our Lady, for the conserva-tion of the faith in the Catho-lic Church. What a beautiful, simple and powerful devo-tion! It was an amazing spiri-tual experience! (Reported by Bernie Gora) … The fifth graders have been studying the weather and hurricanes in science and social studies. The unit culminated Sept 13 with by a visit from “local boy” Guy Hagi. Born and raised near Liliha Bakery, Hagi used to frequent our school basketball court to get in a game or two with his friends. He attended Lanakila Elementary, Kawananakoa Middle, and McKinley High. Now he is a weathercaster on Hawaii News Now. He talked about the weather, surf, tsu-namis and hurricanes. He says predicting the weather can never be 100 percent accurate, but technology is getting better. It is Mother Nature who is the unpre-dictable factor. His advice during a hurricane or tsu-nami: “Don’t Get Killed.” The students asked questions about the surf. Mr. Hagi is quite the avid surfer. His two children enjoy the sport also. Surf is always affected by the weather. The morning after his visit, he was flying off to participate in a four-man relay marathon on Maui. We would like to thank Mr. Hagi for taking time out of his busy schedule to share his wealth of knowledge with us. (Reported by Sally Mejia and Liane Bilonta)

35 KAIMUKI

St. Patrick SchoolThe students and faculty at St. Patrick School celebrated the YEAR OF FAITH by learning about the Creed. Teachers attended special classes so they were equipped with the proper knowledge to pass on to their students in religion class. The fifth through eighth graders even memorized it! The whole school attended a special Mass dedicated to the YEAR OF FAITH on Oct. 17, 2012. Pictured are students and faculty at the special Mass. (Reported by Rachel Alencastre)

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