AUTISM ALOHA ON THE EAST COAST – SOUTH CAROLINA LAST DAY – TRAVELING MERCIES COMING HOME
In 2012 I had opportunity to serve as an interim supply preacher at all the above historic Molokai churches except Halawa. It was a wonderful time of learning and living history, each church and congregation very precious, great opportunities to experience and serve, wonderful time of meeting family and making new friends. Much gratitude for that time as I was preparing for ordination and ministry as a priest in the Episcopal Church of Hawaii.
Included in this visit will be descendants of the valley and the Makua Church and The David Crowley, Cultural Resources Program Manager, U.S. Army Garrison Hawaii. SCHOFIELD BARRACKS, Hawaii.
The Makua Protestant Church was a historic Hawaiian sanctuary and community center located in Makua Valley on the island of Oʻahu. It served as a vital gathering place for local residents before it was ultimately destroyed during military exercises following World War II.
History and Community Role
• Establishment: The original church structure in the valley was built by early ranch lessee Samuel Andrews, who also helped arrange its first pastors. A newer building for the congregation was later constructed around 1921.
• Community Hub: Well known into the 1940s, the church was famous for large community gatherings, good music, and abundant food, drawing attendees from across Oʻahu.
• Denomination: It functioned as an independent Hawaiian Protestant Congregational church.
Destruction and Legacy
• World War II and Aftermath: Military presence grew heavily in the valley during WWII. Following the war, ongoing military bombing and target practices in the area severely damaged and ultimately destroyed the church building.
• Cemetery: While the church building did not survive, the adjacent Makua Protestant Cemetery remains, containing historical burials from the late 19th century onward. Descendants and local organizations have continued to care for and advocate for the preservation of the sacred site.
The Makua Protestant Church was a historic Hawaiian sanctuary and community center located in Makua Valley on the island of Oʻahu. It served as a vital gathering place for local residents before it was ultimately destroyed during military exercises following World War II.
History and Community Role
• Establishment: The original church structure in the valley was built by early ranch lessee Samuel Andrews, who also helped arrange its first pastors. A newer building for the congregation was later constructed around 1921.
• Community Hub: Well known into the 1940s, the church was famous for large community gatherings, good music, and abundant food, drawing attendees from across Oʻahu.
• Denomination: It functioned as an independent Hawaiian Protestant Congregational church.
Destruction and Legacy
• World War II and Aftermath: Military presence grew heavily in the valley during WWII. Following the war, ongoing military bombing and target practices in the area severely damaged and ultimately destroyed the church building.
• Cemetery: While the church building did not survive, the adjacent Makua Protestant Cemetery remains, containing historical burials from the late 19th century onward. Descendants and local organizations have continued to care for and advocate for the preservation of the sacred site.
