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Join us for
HOLY EUCHARIST
April 6, 2025 at 7:00 am & 9:00 am
Fifth Sunday in Lent
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| | PICTURED ABOVE - This is one of the photos I took at Halema'uma'u last Tuesday evening from Devastation Trail. We could feel the heat and hear the roar — breathtakingly beautiful and fierce. | | |
Dear St. Augustine's 'ohana,
Kirk and I went to see the fountaining at Halema'uma'u this past Tuesday. The eruption's unspeakable fierceness and beauty evoked both fear and awe. We were keenly aware of its potential to both destroy and inspire.
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At an intimate dinner, Jesus and dear friends share similarly contrasting emotions: gratitude for being together, trepidation about what is to come, and immense love.
At a loss for words at the reality of Lazarus' miraculous return from death and the prospect of Jesus' path toward his demise, Mary anoints Jesus' feet tenderly with her hair and expensive perfume. What else could possible express her overwhelming feelings of love, gratitude, and sorrow?
Wrestling with his own feelings, Judas Iscariot criticizes Mary. What if she sold that perfume and gave the money to the poor? Wouldn't that be better? No, Jesus says, it would not be better. He intervenes, seeing Mary's tender heart and Judas' bitterness. He tells Judas to leave her be.
Sometimes words get in the way. Sometimes our thoughts spin out of control into the "what if" scenarios that take our minds to dark thoughts. But through her actions, Mary bypasses mental negativity in favor of heartfelt care. Reflecting Jesus' gift of love, Mary stays in the present moment, where Jesus is with her, in the flesh, and alive.
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What if that's all we have to do? What if every time we are shaken by the negative "what ifs" of life we are able to find positive possibilities? When the world erupts and we are presented with contrasting options, we can choose to see only the terrible, or we can invite God to inspire us to the Divine flow of loving action. We may not know how our actions will play out, but we can, with certainty, know that love is what God commands.
"Grant your people grace to love what you command and desire what you promise; that, among the swift and varied changes of the world, our hearts may surely there be fixed where true joys are to be found." — from the Collect for the Fifth Sunday in Lent, Book of Common Prayer
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As we left Halema'uma'u, we noted the ʻōhiʻa flourishing.
Blessings,
Vicar Jennifer
P.S., I encourage you to attend our Holy Week services, which provide rich opportunities for spiritual reflection. We'll be doing something new this year: a creation-inspired labyrinth on Good Friday (in addition to our Good Friday service at 5:30 pm). The labyrinth will be made in the shape of a spiral, like a fern emerging — the promise of following Jesus, even in the darkest moments. Stations in the spiral will invite us to stop and meditate on parts of Jesus journey to the cross. A printed guide to walking the labyrinth will available. Please see the entire Holy Week schedule below. I hope you'll join us to experience these special services!
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HOLY WEEK AT ST. AUGUSTINE'S
Join us at St. Augustine's to deepen your spiritual life during Holy Week and Easter! Whether you are new to Holy Week or familiar with the Episcopal traditions of Palm Sunday, the Pascal Triduum, and Easter, you are invited to six experiences that take us through the foundational journey of our souls through our Christian faith.
Palm Sunday - We journey into Jerusalem waving our palms with love to herald Jesus' arrival but then confront accusation, denial, judgment, violence, and death. It is a day of stark contrast as we reflect on how these themes play out in ourselves and in the world today.
Maundy Thursday - The term "Maundy" comes from the Latin word "mandatum," which means commandment or mandate. We gather to hear the commandment Jesus gave the disciples on the night of the Last Supper "to love one another as I have loved you." It was on this night, three days before his resurrection, that Jesus established the eucharist: the holy meal through which we remember, give thanks for, and are united in his love for us.
Good Friday - We follow Jesus through his journey to the cross. It is a holy and solemn day of contemplation. Join us for a quiet walk in the labyrinth on the front lawn during the day and for a music-filled service of contemplation in the evening as we remember the crucifixion of Jesus.
Easter Vigil - Historically, this liturgy is the first celebration of Easter. This special evening includes:
- The Service of Light (kindling of new fire, lighting the Paschal candle, the singing of the Exsultet)
- The Service of Lessons (readings from the Hebrew Scriptures interspersed with psalms, canticles, and prayers)
- Holy Baptism or reaffirmation of baptismal vows
- Holy Eucharist
Easter Sunday - We celebrate Christ's resurrection, embrace opportunities for our renewal, and follow the call to share God's love with all!
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| MAHALO FOR ALL THAT YOU GIVE! | | |
Many thanks for all that you do to show your support for St. Augustine's! Your gifts of time, talent, and funds allow us to be the love of God in our community.
WHY WE ARE HERE
Through our Family & Community Network, we serve North Kohala by:
- Providing a safe, inclusive, and welcoming spiritual home.
- Addressing the high cost of living by offering low-cost goods in our Thrift Shop.
- Addressing food insecurity through food preservation education; alleviating hunger by sponsoring the Little Free Pantry and partnerships to assist Kohala Cares and the Kohala Food Hub.
- Serving as a gathering place for collaborative community (music, arts, food, fellowship).
All gifts, no matter the size, make an incredible difference in our community! Mahalo for your support!
Visit the link below to access our secure giving site.
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April 6 - Fifth Sunday in Lent at 7:00 & 9:00 am
April 13 - Palm Sunday at 9:00 am
April 17 - Maundy Thursday at 5:30 pm
April 18 - Good Friday labyrinth available all day
April 18 - Good Friday at 5:30 pm
April 19 - Easter Vigil at 5:30 pm
April 20 - Easter Sunday at 9:00 am
Find scripture readings for upcoming Sundays and learn about the liturgical seasons in the Episcopal Church here.
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Join our YouTube Channel
to view past services!
youtube.com/@staugustineskohala
| | | THANK YOU FOR ALL YOU DO | | |
John and Cindy Sakai for cleaning the church & providing flowers this week and last week.
Kim Lambrecht for serving as lay reader last Sunday.
St. Augustine's members who pray for others each week.
The many members of St. Augustine's and the community who help sort donations and operate the Thrift Shop.
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ST. AUGUSTINE'S PRAYER CHAIN
Please pray for healing, guidance, strength, peace of mind, and comfort for: Paz; Carol Dicus; Patty Strabala & 'ohana; Sandy Hom; Joseph & David; Ivan; Nino Barraquiel; William Hoffman; Lonnie & Therese Dicus; Sheila Fujii; Patrick Tanaka; Janis Peach; Rita Masada; Brandon Weber; Suzie Cook; Heidi & Baye Cheikh Kébé; Caroline Doll; Craig Spencer; Koko Purdy; Leighton Purdy; Neal Holter; Linda Leonard Pell; Bruce Soll; all who are affected by wars around the world; Megan Jacoby; Katie Buehner; Susan Acacio; Sabrina Lee; Jeannette Hensel;
Erin Manuel; Guy Kaoo; Reni Aʻi aʻi Bello; Becky & Ludwig Simmet; Annecita Tamayo; Lynn Dicus. Thanksgiving for the life of Denny Green.
REQUEST PRAYERS
If you or someone you know would like to be added to our prayer list, please email Patsy Ching or Vicar Jennifer. You can request prayers for yourself, your 'ohana, and anyone in our community or beyond.
During our Sunday services, you can write prayer requests on a piece of paper. Prayers will be read aloud or silently (per your request) during the Prayers of the People. You can also send us prayer requests through our online form. Mahalo for your care and prayers!
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WEEKLY
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SUNDAY SCHOOL - Lani and Vicar Jennifer offer Godly Play at 3:30 pm on Wednesdays (during Thrift Shop hours). We invite keiki in our community to hear a Godly Play story, sing, and share a holy meal. Parents are always welcome to attend. Please help us spread the word!
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FELLOWSHIP HOUR - Every Sunday after our 9:00 am service. We gather to enjoy conversation, coffee, and treats in Walker Hall. Please bring some savory or sweet treats to share if you like! Mahalo to all who have been providing delicious food and to Jeannette Hensel for bringing coffee.
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CHOIR - Join us Wednesdays at 5:00 pm to sing through the hymns for the following Sunday. All are welcome! Can't make it to choir this week? You can take a peek at the music in the order of worship for this coming Sunday (link is at the top of this newsletter).
MONTHLY
First Sunday of each month
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SPIRIT SCHOOL - Sunday school for adults - Join us for Spirit School, a short session for adults on a topic to enrich our spiritual life. We host two sessions: after the 7:00 am service and after the 9:00 am service. Please let Vicar Jennifer know if there's a topic you're interested in or if you would like to present a Spirit School session.
Second Sunday of each month
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LAYING ON OF HANDS - Receive healing prayers for yourself or another at our 7:00 am & 9:00 am services. Mahalo to Rebecca Bartholomy for offering this important ministry!
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FOOD PANTRY DONATIONS - Please bring shelf-stable, nutritious foods for the Kapa'au Little Free Pantry or donate funds for food to be purchased. Mahalo for your help with this ministry!
Third Sunday of each month
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KEIKI SUNDAY - All keiki (and their 'ohanas) are invited to join us for this once-a-month special service when Vicar Jennifer shares a Godly Play story and keiki can participate at the altar as we share our holy meal together.
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BISHOP'S COMMITTEE MEETING - All members are welcome to join the Bishop's Committee meeting, held in the Sunday School classroom at 10:30 am after fellowship hour. As always, we welcome your questions about our planning and budgeting processes!
Fourth Sunday of each month
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PREACHING CONGREGATIONS INITIATIVE- This program teaches us how to listen to one another and how to speak with others about the love of God. Curious about what is being learned? Ask St. Augustine's lay cohort, Kathy Webb, Kirk Corey, Maurine Gomes, Laura La Gassa, Kim Lambrecht, and John Sakai during fellowship hour or when you see them out and about!
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PALM CROSSES
Come to Spirit School this Sunday, April 6 (after our 7:00 am and 9:00 am services) to learn about the symbolism of palms, how we use them in our liturgy, and how to fold palm crosses.
| | Saturday, April 12 at 10:00 am - Gather on the Walker Hall lanai to fold crosses together. We'll be making about 300 crosses. If you are unable to attend, you can pick up palm fronds and fold them at home! Instructions will be provided. Please bring your folded crosses to our 9:00 am Palm Sunday service on April 13. | | |
OUR NEXT FUNDRAISER
Calling all plant enthusiasts and cooks!
MamaJam (May 10) is a community gathering we hosted for the first time last year to celebrate mothers and motherhood. It's also a fundraiser for St. Augustine's, and we are excited to host this event again in 2025!
Please consider helping us make MamaJam a success. Here's how:
Grow some plants that can be sold as gifts. Small plants like succulents, herbs, and flowers are popular!
Cook your favorite food for us to sell. Our auntys make the BEST dishes, which are always at hit at our fundraisers! There is a sign-up sheet in Walker Hall.
Help us find local vendors who sell items mothers would appreciate. We would love to support small operations that benefit our community, like family-owned businesses or local organizations. The fee to be a vendor is only $25. Vendors bring their own 10x10 or 12x12 tent, table, and chairs. If you or someone you know would be interested, please email Kathy Matsuda at kathymaloha@gmail.com or call the church at (808) 889-5390 and leave a message.
Mahalo for helping us make this a sweet community event for all the mamas in Kohala!
| | PICTURED ABOVE - From left to right - Shirley, Bobbie, and Mary Ann came to help with our community meal. All three helped in with past meals and it was so lovely to have our wonderful crew back in action! On the right - Michelle Simpson was sous chef extraordinaire for Peter Pomeranze (who was camera shy)! Michelle also went above and beyond procuring fresh produce for the salad and creating delicious garlic bread. Mahalo to all our volunteers who made the meal a joyful success! | | PICTURED ABOVE - Walker Hall was filled with people from North Kohala enjoying one another's company and the delicious food. | | |
COMMUNTY MEAL - A JOYFUL GATHERING!
Friends from all around North Kohala came together for a beautiful meal made with aloha by Kohala Cares' Peter Pomeranze last Friday, March 28. With plates filled, music in the air (Tom Morse volunteering as DJ), and flowers on the table, everyone enjoyed great conversation and ono grindz.
The evening was the first of what we hope will be many Community Meals hosted by Kohala Cares and St. Augustine's in partnership. The idea came from Peter, who said, "We are hoping to do this monthly to create an atmosphere of inclusivity and aloha in this moment where many are struggling. There is no agenda other than fostering community connection and togetherness. It is completely free to all and all are welcome."
Mahalo nui loa to Peter, to all who attended, and to our wonderful volunteers. Here's to many more gatherings as we nurture the aloha spirit in true Kohala fashion!
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SUPPORT OUR YOUTH
Help us continue our tradition of supporting our youth! Please consider giving to the St. Augustine’s College Fund. Whether you are a local Kohala resident or a friend of St. Augustine’s from elsewhere in the US, your help will allow our students to thrive.
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EASTER EGGS READY FOR FILLING
Please consider taking some eggs home to fill with goodies for our keiki to enjoy on Easter morning! As in past years, the empty eggs are available in Walker Hall. Please fill them with candy (no chocolate), toys, or money. Bring them back by Easter morning for the Easter Egg Hunt! Mahalo for adding to the festivities!
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NOTES FROM OUR BISHOP'S COMMITTEE
Planning for MamaJam continues as we seek local vendors for the event. We're also looking for members who can bring food and plants to sell.
Please let us know if you have questions or feedback! Contact any member of the BC or sit in on our next meeting, which will be April 27 at 10:45 am in the Sunday School Room.
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ST. AUGUSTINE'S TEAMS IN ACTION
Our four core teams are hard at work! We're sharing updates each week as our progress unfolds. All four of our teams met this week, and we share these updates:
Buildings & Grounds - The new refrigerator is here! The team made plans to clean and defrost all our cold food storage appliances on April 15 (see details in article below) so that we are in compliance with safe food handling regulations. We're making progress on plans for fencing our property. Next steps include communicating with families about what we're doing to ensure gravesites are located inside the fence, surveying the property line to ensure fencing will be on our campus, getting bids to install the fence, and making plans to raise funds. Responding to the need to reset our lock codes, the team will do this work on April 11 (see article below).
Finance - Team members have drafted a new budgeting calendar, which will be shared with the Bishop's Committee at the April 27 meeting. The team is working hard on fundraising for our Student Support Fund and creating processes to track finances for special projects related to campus maintenance, outreach, and other projects outside our normal operating budget.
Community Events & Partnerships Team (building our Family & Community Network ) - Partnerships Community Meal on March 28, which will be a sit-down gathering to enjoy one another's company.
Spiritual Growth Team - Plans for Godly Play during Thrift Shop hours continue. Our upcoming Spirit School presentations will center around our liturgy, explaining our Lenten and Easter traditions.
Mahalo to all members of our Bishop's Committee and all members of our core teams: Buildings & Grounds, Community Events & Partnerships, Finance & Stewardship, and Spiritual Growth. If you are interested in being on a core team or helping with a specific project, please reach out to Vicar Jennifer or any member of the BC.
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SPRING CLEANING!
With the arrival of our new refrigerator (paid for through a grant), we have made plans to clean our two refrigerators and freezer. Between April 11 and 14, we ask that folks please remove items from the refrigerators and freezer. We will be defrosting the chest freezer and cleaning the upright refrigerator on April 15. That day, wny items remaining in any of our cold storage units will be removed.
Please note: After April 15, we'll have a new way to track what's added to our refrigerators and freezer. To store an item, please log it on the clipboard (available by each appliance) and label the item as directed. Non-labeled and expired items will be removed monthly. Mahalo for helping us keep our facilities clean and in compliance food safety regulations!
Resetting locks - We'll also be resetting the lock code for Walker Hall on April 11, as well as adding a lock code to the Thrift Shop door. It's been at least five year (maybe longer) since we've done this. Moving forward, we'll keep a list of folks who have access and plan to change the codes every six months. Mahalo to our Buildings & Grounds Team for working on this!
| | | If you have information to share, please let us know! This newsletter helps us stay in touch in a variety of ways, such as news, requests for prayers, offers of assistance, or information on garden bounty (fruits, veggies) you would like to share. VicarJennifer@staugustineskohala.com or admin@staugustineskohala.com Submissions due by Thursday morning for Friday's newsletter. | |
ST. AUGUSTINE'S THRIFT SHOP
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SHOPPING & MORE!
Every Wednesday from 12:00 pm - 6:00 pm, our Thrift Shop offers great deals on wonderful treasures, but people come for more than that.
As always, we are also open the first Saturday of the month, so please join us Saturday, April 5 from 8:00 am - 11:00 am.
| | Our Thrift Shop is a place to see friends, catch up, enjoy a snack, and feel the warm kinship of others. Come gather, talk story, and connect with members of our community! Follow us on Facebook for news about recent Thrift Shop finds and upcoming events! | | | | |
INTERESTED IN VOLUNTEERING?
Join the fun and serve our community by volunteering at our Thrift Shop. Please spread the word! Folks can contact admin@staugustineskohala.com
| | PICTURED ABOVE - This photo was taken on Friday, March 14, 2025 at St. Mark's Episcopal Church in Honolulu, where the Diocese welcomed its newest deacons, Erin Richardson Severin and Hannah Lee. They are pictured alongside the Bishop with their presenters, family and supporters. (Photo from Diocesan Support Center) | | |
In this issue of the Hawaiian Church Chronicle (March 27, 2025), catch up on news from around our diocese and read about the House of Bishops gathering held March 19-24 at Camp McDowell in Nauvoo, Alabama. The meeting included discussions of witnessing to the Gospel amid today’s contentious political climate and The Episcopal Church’s future in a secular society. Read about the House of Bishop's gathering here.
Diocese of Hawai'i invites all to attend the 2025 Annual Chrism Mass and Education Day at the Cathedral of St. Andrew on Oahu. The day will begin at 9:00 a.m. with the Chrism Mass and Eucharist, which will include the Renewal of Clergy Vows and Baptismal Vows.
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MESSAGES FROM OUR BISHOP
& PRESIDING BISHOP
| | | | At St. Augustine's Episcopal Church, all are welcome. ALL means ALL, without exception. This is how we live into our mission to "BE the love of God and to FEEL the love of God." | | | | | |
