Pastoral Candidate Meet and Greet
Saturday, December 9, 2023 from 3:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.
There was an opportunity to meet with Rev. Dr. Gary Percesepe on December 9th from 3 to 5 pm in the Hale Pule, followed by an Aloha hour under the pavilion.
Pastoral Candidate Congregational Meeting
The Keawala’i Church Council announced a Congregational Meeting on December 10th to vote on issuing a call to the Rev. Dr. Gary Percesepe to become the Designated-term Minister for our church. Rev. Percesepe was the unanimous choice of the Pastoral Search Committee. Blessing of the Animals
The Annual Blessing of the Animals was held on Saturday, December 16, 2023 at 10:00 a.m. on the grounds of the historic Keawalaʻi Congregational Church in Mākena. Outreach Craft Faire and Bake Sale
The Outreach Craft Faire and Bake Sale was held on Saturday, December 17, 2023 after the 10 a.m. morning service under the pavilion. Christmas Eve Twilight Service The Annual Christmas Eve Candlelight Service was held at historic Keawalaʻi Congregational Church - United Church of Christ on Sunday, December 24, 2023, and began at 4:30 p.m. on the grounds of the church. Annual Meeting
At the conclusion of worship, we adjourned to the Pavilion for Aloha Hour after which we will had our meeting. We reconvened in the hale pule for our meeting. We had a full agenda, and invited thoughtful and prayerful participation as we plan for the next steps in the life of our congregation. See our Church Council page for a copy of the meeting report.
A reminder: General Members have voice and vote. Associate Members have voice but no vote. Easter Morning Service The annual Easter Sunrise Service was held at 7:30 a.m. on Sunday, March 31, 2024 on the grounds of the church. Please visit and celebrate with us! We had special music by
George Kahumoku.
Sunday, December 10, 2023 at 11:30 a.m.
Rev. Percesepe preached and conducted the church service on December 10th. The congregational meeting took place immediately after the service. In accordance with the church by-laws, a secret ballot vote was taken by the general members of the congregation to approve issuing a call to Rev. Percesepe.
This was a very important and historic moment for our congregation. The Pastoral Search Committee was diligent in their efforts to bring us the best possible candidate for our church at this time. We had many members present on those two days as we sought to discern God’s path for our future. We look forward to greeting you as you join us in welcoming Pastor Gary Percesepe as our settled pastor on February 25, 2024.
Saturday, December 16, 2023
Churches celebrate the blessing of animals in remembrance of St. Francis of Assisi’s love for all creatures. At Keawalaʻi it has become a tradition that the blessing is held in December. Readings, prayers, and a blessing were offered as well as pictures with Santa.
Arrangements for the day took into account the needs of the various animals including dogs, cats, birds, hamsters, rabbits or any other pets. Dogs were leashed at all times and other animals were safely contained.
All are welcome each year to bring your pets and participate in this wonderful celebration and time of blessing.
Sunday, December 17, 2023
Many contributed by making a craft or baking a treat for the sale. Donations were dropped at the church Sunday morning before the service.
Proceeds from the bake sale will support the work of the Outreach Committee. Grants are provided year-round for individuals and families throughout Maui County. This is a great way to support the Outreach mission of Keawalaʻi and start your Christmas shopping.
Sunday, December 24, 2023 at 4:30 p.m. on the lawn
Please note: There was no regular 10:00 a.m. morning service.
A select group of musicians participated under the direction of Cameron Keys. Our program featured a lovely celebration as we focused on the birth of our Savior Jesus Christ. Traditional carols were sung in English and Hawaiian.
Seating was provided for 500. Parking was available in the church overflow parking lot and along Mākena Road.
11:30 a.m. on Sunday, January 28, 2024
Sunday, March 31, 2024 at 7:30am on the lawn
The outdoor service included the sharing of The Lord’s Supper and the Easter floral cross.
Members and friends were invited to bring single stem flowers or lei for the cross. These were placed on the cross when people arrived for worship. 