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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Gratefully Celebrating the Completion of Our Grace Parish Center
Seventeen years since the October 2006 earthquake and eight years after the dedication of St. Michael’s Church, the long-awaited Grace Parish Center has been completed! Despite a recession, COVID-19, setbacks, and, at times, frustrations, we are now blessed with facilities that will serve our Catholic community for decades. Construction has been completed — however, a few items from the punch list remain to be recti fied. We are anxious to begin new programs and activities […]
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Lector Ministry: Proclaiming God’s Word for All to Hear
St. Paul has much to say in his letter to the Romans about those who bring the Word of God to others — “For ‘Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.’ But how can they call on him in whom they have not believed? And how can they believe in him of whom they have not heard? And how can they hear without someone to preach? And how can people […]
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