Author: Gary Percesepe

The impact of Hurricane Helene is widespread and devastating, as more than 100 people have been confirmed dead, over 2 million people are without power, and damages are estimated to be over $140 billion. We know of two UCC congregations on Florida’s Gulf Coast whose church buildings suffered significant flood damage, and another building that… Continue reading Hurricane Helene: Here’s How You Can Help

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact: Aris Banaag, Event Chairman Email: mauimensmarch@gmail.com PRESS RELEASE September 28, 2024 Maui Rallies for the 5th Annual Men’s March Against Violence on October 4, 2024 Kahului, HI – The 5th Annual Maui Men’s March Against Violence is fast approaching and will take place on Friday, October 4, 2024, from 11:30 AM… Continue reading Maui Men’s March Against Violence, October 4

Aloha, Keawalaʻi ‘ohana,  A Service of Healing will take place this Sunday at Keawala’i. Our healing service will feature the “laying on of hands” and the anointing with oil. Two “stations” of healing will be set up in the front of the church, as Auntie Edie will join me in offering a prayer for healing… Continue reading A Service of Healing This Sunday

I have invited CJ Elizares to bring a word of greeting to Keawala’i tomorrow after worship at our Aloha Hour, to describe the work currently being done not far from out church constructing the hale pili you see pictured above. The hale build resumed today and will continue for eight more days. In an earlier… Continue reading Meet CJ Elizares at Aloha Hour Tomorrow After Church!

For the past several years I have kept a Journal of Consolation & Desolation. I use it to reflect on the interior movement of my heart. The human heart is never static; It is always moving somewhere. But where? Am I moving more toward doubt, fear, and anger? Or am I moving toward greater faith,… Continue reading Consolation & Desolation

Witnessing the response of faith leaders in Springfield to the scapegoating of Haitian migrants is uplifting. You can read more about it here.

Come Build a Hale Pili with Master Hale Builder Uncle Francis Sinenci, 9/21-9/29 Requirements: Desire to learn the hale building process; super-good-can-do attitude; 16+ years old & able to lift 30+ pounds; able to commit to and work a full day (8 am-5 pm)

Mahalo to all who have expressed support for the city of Springfield and for FBC specifically. I have reached out to the leadership of the church, and some good ideas are already percolating. Here are some ways you can get involved, with more thoughts to follow in the coming days: 1) Consider writing a letter… Continue reading Solidarity with Springfield: Next Steps

As some of you may know, I served as pastor to two different churches in Springfield, Ohio. I taught philosophy at Wittenberg University in Springfield for many years. Recent reports in the news have resulted in an avalanche of attention to this small city of 58,000 souls. The sudden spotlighting of a community that is already suffering… Continue reading Scapegoating in Springfield