Leaders from the Hawaiʻi Conference UCC, the Hawaiʻi Conference Foundation, and our ecumenical and community partners were present for the blessing and grand opening of the new HCUCC/HCF office at the Topa Financial Center (700 Bishop Street, Suite 825, Honolulu, Hawaiʻi 96813). HCUCC and HCF have occupied the new space since April 2023, but waited until October 27 to hold the blessing and official open house.
The blessings ceremony was officiated by the Rev. H. Kalani Wong, along with the Rev. Dr. David Popham (Conference Minister, HCUCC) and Mr. Andrew Bunn (Executive Director, HCF). In a deeply meaningful and reflective service, Kahu Kalani reminded all present that this office which overlooks Honolulu Harbor - with Honolulu meaning "sheltered y" - will be a source of protection, relief, and refuge for all of the churches and people it serves.
Following the blessing, all present enjoyed ʻono food and drink, and all you can eat ice cream provided by Black Sheep Cream Company - a local Oʻahu creamery. For entertainment, a group of local musicians (including our very own Andy Bunn) delighted us all with wonderful music. Some of our guests (like Arlene Keala Pihana of Maui) joined in.
It was a wonderful time of fellowship and celebration.
The next day, the Conference Council and the Board of Directors of the Hawaiʻi Conference Foundation met separately and also for joint meetings followed by lunch. This was the first time the entities have met in-person since 2019 - prior to the pandemic.
Photos courtesy of Kristen Young, HCUCC Social Media Coordinator
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