Newsletter Articles

An Evening with Francesca LaRosa

Aloha! Please join us on April 2nd at 7pm for an evening of psalms and eucharistic adoration with Catholic composer & songwriter, Francesca LaRosa at St. Michael’s. If you’re in the Hilo side of the island, join us at Immaculate Heart of Mary in Pāpa’ikou on April 3rd at 7pm. Admission is free for both concerts. Francesca is an internationally recognized Catholic composer, with her sheet music being played in churches all over the world. She is most […]

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Spiritual Book Club Looks Forward to Growth as an Active Parish Ministry

The St. Michael Spiritual Book Club is in its infant stages, but organizer Dennis Boyd, a parish lector, hopes that it can grow to become a thriving ministry for our parish. “I’ve been reading the work of Fr. Richard Rohr, OFM, and it made such a change in my life that I want to talk about it with other people,” Dennis says. “I got this idea, so I want to see what happens.” The new […]

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Embracing Stewardship During Lent

Lent, the 40-day season of reflection and preparation leading up to Easter, is a time of spiritual growth, self-examination, and deepening one’s relationship with God. Central to the Lenten experience is the connection to stewardship and recommitting to our commitments of time, talent, and treasure during Lent, so that we can truly embody the spirit of this season of sacrifice and renewal. Time is one of God’s most precious gifts to us. During Lent, consider […]

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Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion: Chaplains Joyfully Bring Our Prayers and Holy Communion to the Hospitalized

As a community, we always pray for the sick and homebound. Here at St. Michael the Archangel, a special group of Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion (EMHC) called Chaplains take the extra step to bring the Eucharist to individuals at Kona Community Hospital who are unable to attend Mass in person. By bringing our hospitalized brothers and sisters Holy Communion, visiting with them, and praying with them, this ministry connects us all by also bringing […]

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Strengthening Your Catholic Faith: A Guide to Spiritual Growth and Faith Formation

The journey of faith is a lifelong commitment, a continuous process of deepening our relationship with Christ and understanding the teachings of the Church. To improve your faith life and foster a closer connection with Christ, it’s essential to engage in meaningful practices and explore Catholic literature that can provide spiritual nourishment. Here are some ideas to help you enhance your faith and some insightful Catholic-based books to read. Daily Prayer and Reflection Building a […]

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A Catholic Tradition of Reflection and Renewal: Lā Hāpala Lehu

A solemn day that marks the beginning of Lent, Lā Hāpala Lehu, or Ash Wednesday, holds a special place in the hearts of Catholics worldwide. Rooted in centuries-old traditions, this observance is laden with symbolism and significance, providing a profound opportunity for spiritual reflection and renewal. Ash Wednesday falls 40 days before Easter Sunday, excluding Sundays, and serves as a period of penance, fasting, and prayer, mirroring the 40 days Jesus spent in the desert. The […]

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Environment and Linens Ministry: Ensuring the Beauty of Our Worship Space for the Entire Liturgical Year

It takes many stewards, with all kinds of gifts, to keep our church running. Some proclaim the Word as lectors, distribute Holy Communion, or use their musical talents to give glory to God.  One ministry that might not be immediately apparent is the Environment and Linens Ministry, which ensures that all of the linens in St. Michael’s reflect the liturgical season.  Fr. Lio asked Bonnie Miki to be part of the Environment and Linens Ministry […]

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Get to Know Fr. Henry Guillen-Vega, Our New Parochial Vicar: Empowering Parishioners to Live out Their Faith

This past summer, our St. Michael’s community was blessed to welcome Fr. Henry Guillen-Vega, beginning his assignment as Parochial Vicar on Aug. 15, 2023.  “It has been a blessing to be part of this faith-filled community and to serve the parishioners,” Fr. Henry says. “I am deeply grateful to Bishop Larry Silva, Fr. Gregorio, the Vicar for Clergy, and Fr. Lio, the Pastor, for entrusting me with this opportunity.” Fr. Henry was born and raised […]

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We Welcome Fr. Royd Mweemba as New Parochial Vicar: Looking Forward to Ministering to Our Parish `Ohana

In June, we were so happy to welcome Fr. Royd Mweemba as our new Parochial Vicar. This is not Fr. Royd’s first time at St. Michael, — he had previously served our parish back in the summer of 2014. We are blessed that he has returned to serve our parish community. Fr. Royd’s journey has led him to be both a teacher and a student over the years. His roots lie in Zambia, where he […]

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Altar Servers Find Great Joy in Sharing Talents with God and Parish at Mass

  We know how vital altar servers are in assisting our clergy with the celebration of the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass. Altar servers also have a meaningful impact on their own families as they bring them closer together and closer to the liturgy.  “The impact that the servers have on their families is priceless,” says Ivan Toguchi. “I enjoy watching how much the servers really look forward to serving Mass. When the servers are […]

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