Our Lady of Good Counsel Young Adult Ministry

A.R.M.S. of God

2012-01-29T09:13:00.000-10:00

A.R.M.S. of God stands for Apostolate Retreat Ministry Servants of God. They currently consist of confirmed youth and young adults who plan and serve retreats. In the last seven years, they have served as the retreat team for parishes and schools across the state.

For those of you who are confirmed and are interested, the first A.R.M.S. of God meeting for the year is today at 1pm at Our Lady of Good Counsel, Pearl City.

Pictures from Kauai Confirmation Retreat 2010

Clean Up, Clean Up. Everybody Everywhere

2012-01-09T13:12:00.000-10:00

Clean up, clean up. Everybody do your share.

Our Lady of Good Counsel Parish has their monthly workday on the SECOND SATURDAY of the month. You are invited to help the young adults and youth clean up our cemetery on Kamehameha Highway.

Our next clean up is this Saturday, January 14. Meet at the church at 8am and we'll carpool! Following the clean up, we will be doing a rosary in rememberance of those who have been buried there, as well as all the holy souls in Purgatory.

Pictures from our first clean up, November 2011.

Jesus is Coming...

2011-12-19T18:57:00.001-10:00

...and I'm gonna be ready!

I hope all of you have prepared the way for the Lord and made straight his path :) Here are the Mass times at Our Lady of Good Counsel for the Christmas weekend...

Christmas Eve Vigil Masses: 5pm and 8pm
Christmas Midnight Mass: 12am Midnight
Christmas Day: 6:30am, 8:30am, 11am

Also, join us for Missa de Gallo at 5am until December 24. Breakfast is to follow in the Pastoral Center.

Have a blessed 4th Week of Advent!

Inginiting the Light of Christ Within You

2011-12-05T09:44:00.001-10:00

Our Lady of Good Counsel will be having its annual Parish Mission this week. We would like to welcome our special guest speaker, Paul Koleske!

Please join us this week in the Pastoral Center at 7pm.
Monday, December 5 - Connecting with the Light of Christ
Tuesday, December 6 - Experiencing the Light of Christ
Wednesday, December 7 - Living the Light of Christ

He also is a musician and will be selling his CDs. There are three CDs at $15 each.

I look forward to seeing all of you... CHRIST BE OUR LIGHT!

Time to Change

2011-10-01T10:45:00.000-10:00

Can you believe that our dream has become a reality?!! Our Pastoral Center was blessed on Tuesday, September 27. It was BEAUTIFUL! For those of you who missed it, keep reading ;) The mark of the blessing and opening of the Pastoral Center means that there will be many changes, that is, we will be going back to some old ways.

Mass times will change the weekend of October 29 and 30. The 9am Mass will change back to 8:30am. The 11:30am Mass will change back to 11am.

Also, the entrance will no longer be two-way except when the gates are closed at night.

Please visit our school website for changes in car pick-up procedures.

Now that you have read through the important stuff... now for the fun stuff you missed!

It's Like Christmas is Almost Here!

2011-09-25T11:24:00.000-10:00

The long awaited opening of the Pastoral Center is on TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 27!

Festivities will start with Mass at 4pm celebrated by our Bishop Larry Silva, followed with a bento fundraiser dinner and special performance. Bento tickets are still available for a donation of $10. Get your ticket after the Masses today and the 6:30am Masses on Monday and Tuesday!

Here are the pictures I collected from the beginning...

Please come by on TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 27, to see the final product ;)

Let's Go Fishing

2011-09-12T20:45:00.006-10:00

Matthew 22:36-40 gives us the Greatest Commandment... to love God and to love others. These two very different relationships that are interdependent. How do we love God if we do not love others? How do we love others if we do not know God's love?

The men of Our Lady of Good Counsel's Young Adult Ministry is living up to God's call...

[Jesus] said to them, "Come after me, and I will make you fishers of men."

-Matthew 4:19 and Mark 1:17

This scripture tells of the beginning of Jesus gathering his disciples. In the last month, the men have really have been fishing! And through this one social activity, they are able to reach out to each other in a community that is God-centered.

After the Resurrection in the Gospel of John, Jesus gives directions on how to be fishers of men (John 21:1-19). Simon Peter goes fishing and the other disciples came along (John 21:3). Having caught nothing, they returned to shore where Jesus (in disguise) appears to them (John 21:4). They set back to the water, caught fish, shared a meal and Jesus broke the bread. Brace yourself for the directions...

"Love me more than these... feed my lambs... tend my sheep... love me... feed my sheep... follow me."

-John 21:15-19

We are circling between loving God and loving others! Going fishing has definitely helped each of their skills in reeling in not only fish, but other men and women, too. Let us learn the ways of Jesus and follow God's commands :)

ARMS of God: Retreat Ministry Training

2011-08-19T15:21:00.002-10:00

This is for all who have received the Sacrament of Confirmation at Our Lady of Good Counsel. If you are interested in doing retreats, our third (of four) training is tonight at 7pm in the Youth Room. Dinner provided.

Mary Challenge: CONQUERED!!

2011-06-12T13:12:00.004-10:00

Flower Drum Song's "I Enjoy Being a Girl" comes to mind when I think back on our Mary Challenge. Thank you to all the women who made their attempt on dressing up EVERY DAY last month :) I hope you've gained something for yourself.

As for me, I've learned quite a lot from this experience...

* It's easier to be identified as a woman if you dress like one... It's not like I get mistaken as a guy often because of my looks or how I dress, but it makes sense that if I am in a dress, I am a girl.

* It's easier to embrace my femininity when I'm identified as a woman... My mannerisms and behaviors changed, a lot more polite and even cutesy. I've never really acknowledged compliments, but I was told to say, "Thank you."

* Modesty is the ultimate beauty any woman can show... I've had more compliments than ever. I wasn't all that stylish nor was I fully dolled up. I was only in my dress and cover up with my nice sandals, hardly in heels. I didn't even have much makeup if I was wearing any.

* Improvise when modesty is compromised... Wind and storms, kids and stairs. You always need to make sure that what needs to be covered is covered. Not only the body, but the heart, too.

* I can enable a man's masculinity who in turn, enables your femininity... He is more ready to open a door or carry things. It even forces you to ask for help. He will give you the kind of respect that you deserve and treat you like a lady. Sorry people, but chivalry is not dead.

Of course there are a lot more that I've learned, but I think it would be better for you to understand it for yourself. Try a day or a week, even long if you wish... take notice of the changes and find for yourself... YOUR BEAUTY and FEMININITY!

You're always beautiful in the eyes of God... now share it with the world :)

Lifelong Faith Journey

2011-05-16T15:12:00.002-10:00

Do you need to brush up on your Catholic catechsis? Or are you interested or new to the faith? Our Lady of Good Counsel Parish would like to introduce to you "Lifelong Faith Journey" catechesis sessions.

The mission of this Faith Formation program will be to provide Catholics with a review and renewal of the fundamentsls of our beautiful Catholic Faith. This is in response to the Diocesan Road Map and the popuar desire of any of our parishioners as they shared in several parish meetings.

The scheduled topics will also include 30 minutes of catechesis on the New Translation of the Roman Missal which will be integrated fully during Advent 2011.

All sessions will be held inside of the church, in the Adoration wing, at 6pm.

Monday, May 16 - Introduction to the Scriptures (The Word of God)
An overview of how to effectively read, understand and use the Bible in your personal faith life as well as evangelistic settings.

Monday, June 6 - The Sacraments of Initiation and Healing
We will visit the essential role of the Sacraments in our faith lives from the eyes of Early Church Fathers, the Catechism, as well as the Holy Scriptures. Baptism, Holy Eucharist, Confirmation, Anointing of the Sick, and Penance (Confession) will be covered.

Monday, June 27 - The Sacraments of Service
We will visit the essential role of the Sacraments in our faith lives from the eyes of the Early Church Fathers, the Catechism, as well as the Holy Scriptures. Marriage and Holy Orders.

Monday, July 18 - Mary, Mother of God
As Catholics, many of us have devotions to Mary and the saints. In this session, we will visit many of our common devotional practices and prayers as well as look at the Biblical basis for the beautiful Marian doctrines: Mary, the Mother of God; The Immaculate Conception; Mary's Perpetual Virginity; and Mary's Assumption into Heaven.

Monday, August 15 - The Mass
An overview of the Theological, Biblical, and historical foundations of the Sacred Mass will be shared along with a recap of the entirety of the catechesis on the New Translation of the Roman Missal.

May, the Month of Mary... WOMEN'S CHALLENGE!

2011-05-05T15:40:00.000-10:00

The GOAL... To be a better woman of God :)
INVITE YOUR FRIENDS!!

Rules:
*Wear an appropriate dress or top and skirt every day when you go out.
*Leggings cannot be worn as a means of appropriateness.
*Take a picture of yourself in your outfit wherever you do go out. Make a photo album on your FB for this activity... Or somewhere else to keep you accountable and share your beauty :)
*You must be wearing a dress every time you go out of the house.

Exceptions:
*You do not need to wear a dress or skirt if your job requires you to be in pants... like if it's uniform or you're teaching PE.
*The same goes for certain other activities like working out. Please wear pants.
*Yes, it's okay for you to not wear a dress at home.

Additional activities:
*PRAY THE ROSARY EVERY DAY!
*If available, go to Eucharistic Adoration. OLGC is 24hours.
*Go to Reconciliation
*Go to Mass

MAY 1: Nellani, Nicole, and Tiffany, after 5pm Mass at Our Lady of Good Counsel, Pearl City.

Mystical Body of Christ: 'The Intercession of the Saints' (NativeCatholic.com)

2011-05-04T17:49:00.005-10:00

We are all made, by means of Baptism, part of the Mystical Body of Christ, which IS the Catholic Church (1 Cor. 12:12,27) And Scripture tells us clearly that not even death separates us from the Mystical communion. (Rom. 8:35-39)

CCC 1475 In the communion of saints, "a perennial link of charity exists between the faithful who have already reached their heavenly home, those who are expiating their sins in purgatory and those who are still pilgrims on earth. between them there is, too, an abundant exchange of all good things." In this wonderful exchange, the holiness of one profits others, well beyond the harm that the sin of one could cause others. Thus recourse to the communion of saints lets the contrite sinner be more promptly and efficaciously purified of the punishments for sin.

With this understanding, and with the call that we have to pray for one another (Jas 5:16), we can start to see the importance and beauty in asking our brother and sisters in heaven to pray for us (Rev 5:8) In this Bible study we will address some of the misunderstandings and objections often brought up when discussing the 'Communion of Saints' and the power of The intercession of the Saints.

Click Here to Download the Mp3

CCC 1475 , 1479

Jas 5:16 ; 1 Tim. 2:1-5; 1 Cor. 12:12,27; Rom. 8:35-39; Matt. 5:44-45; Rom. 15:30; 2 Thess. 1:11; Rev. 5:8; Rev. 6:9-11; Rev. 8:3-4

image from the 'Public domain' via wikimedia commons. Saints of the Catholic Church

Confirmation 1 Retreat

2011-04-30T11:16:00.003-10:00

Please pray for our Confirmation One students as they have their retreat this weekend at Our Lady of Kea`au, Waianae!

'That they may all be one': Real Ecumenism

2011-04-25T20:25:00.005-10:00

God Desires all men to be saved (1 Tim 2:4) Christ also bestowed on his Church the unity for which he prayed (John 17:21). It is his will to embrace all people in that unity. The Catholic Church is the One True Church, established by Christ, to which all men are called. It is the Sacrament of Salvation(CCC 776)

Ecumenism comes from the word ecumenical which means universal. The purpose of Ecumenism is that we might work to bring all men to the fullness of faith in the Church(Pius XI’s Mortalium Animos)

There seems to be sense of ‘false ecumenism’ saturating the minds of many Catholics these days. Now it seems like we say "Well . . . this is one way to salvation but all religions are pretty much the same and their all have their way to God” This is simply NOT what the Church teaches.

If all the protestant churches, quasi Christian Churches, Eastern religions, etc. would be ALL added up and became one huge mega church, they still wouldnt compare to the Catholic Church

The Catholic Church is the ONE CHURCH founded by Christ. Period. Thats the Truth.

The goal of REAL Catholic ecumenism then is to restore unity to the separated traditions by bringing them within the unity of the Catholic Church (UR 24). Its is true that non catholic churches have retained some elements of Salvation, however we must never forget that “It is through Christ’s Catholic Church alone, which is the universal help towards salvation, that the fullness of the means of salvation can be obtained” (UR 3). It is our duty as Catholics to strive for and pray that non Christians and non Catholic Christians alike come to fullness of Truth.

Click Here to Download the Mp3
John 17:21; 1 Tim 2:4;
CCC 776; Mortalium Animos; Ut Unum Sint 3 & 11;
Unitatis Redintegratio 3 & 24
image from the 'Public domain' via wikimedia commons.Papal Emblem

Mary Most Holy: Mother of God & Ark of the New Covenant

2011-04-14T13:32:00.004-10:00

Our devotion to the Blessed Mother is one of the greatest treasures that God has given the Church. Not only is Mary, as Mother of God, the one who literally gave birth to 'Salvation' she is also, as our Mother, one of the greatest advocates that we have interceding for us at the Throne of God.

St Bernard of Clairvaux once said: "De Maria Numquam Satis" (Of Mary there is never enough) It is true that beauty and high honor given to the Blessed Mother can not be contained within the context of one single Bible Study.

I was invited to speak at the Our Lady of Good Counsel's Youth Ministry bible study last week and the topic was 'The Blessed Mother'. With just one hour I had to narrow the topic down to just one aspect of rich tradition of faith we have regarding Mary. In this study we chose to focus of the biblical basis of Mary as 'Mother of God' and our understanding of Mary as the 'Ark of the New Covenant'.

Click Here to Download the Mp3

CCC 509, 975, 129, 2676

Psalm 68:4,19-20; Luke 1:41-43; John 20:28; Revelation 12:17; John 19:26-27;
Revelation 11:19-12:1; Luke 1:35; Exodus 40:34; 1 Kings 8:10-11;
2 Sam 6:2 & Luke 1:39; 2 Sam 6:12 & Luke 1:47; 2 Sam 6:9 & Luke 1:43; 2 Sam 6:15 & Luke 1:42; 2 Sam 6:10 & Luke 1:40; 2 Sam 6:16 & Luke 1:41; 2 Sam 6:11 & Luke 1:56

image from the 'Public domain' via wikimedia commons. The Annuciation by
Svenska: Bebådelsen

Central Vicariate Lenten Penance Service Schedule

2011-04-08T15:12:00.003-10:00

"Come to me, all you who labor and are burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am meek and humble of heart; and you will find rest for yourselves. For my yoke is easy, and my burden light." Matthew 11:28-30

On February 16, we had a bible study on confession and why we should go to a priest. Now, more than ever, we should be seeking this sacrament in preparation for Holy Week and the Resurrection of Our Lord. This sacrament is so special because we are given the opportunity to be in God's grace again, in which, we should be in God's grace if we are taking the Eucharist when we are at Mass every Sunday.

Tonight, you have the opportunity to receive penance at Our Lady of Good Counsel in Pearl City at 7pm. There will be about eight priests from around the Central Vicariate to hear confessions.

Pearl Harbor/Hickam, will have theirs on April 10 at 7pm
Schofield Barracks, Venue at Wheeler AFF Chapel will have theirs on April 11 at 6pm
St. Elizabeth, Aiea, will have theirs on April 14 at 7pm

Please call other parishes for more information on regular Reconciliation times.

"They that hope in the Lord will renew their strength, they will soar as with eagles' wings; They will run and not grow weary, walk and not grow faint." Isaiah 40:31

Saint Michael, the Archangel

2011-04-06T12:15:00.002-10:00

Did you know that Pope Leo XIII wrote the Saint Michael prayer in 1884? He had a vision so strong that he asked that it would be prayed after Mass.

Did you know that it was also stopped in 1968 with the Novus Ordo during the time of Pope Paul VI?

And did you know that in 1994, Pope John Paul II wanted to have it said after Mass again?

Here's the Prayer of St. Michael taken from the EWTN website:

St. Michael the Archangel,
defend us in battle.
Be our defense against the wickedness and snares of the Devil.
May God rebuke him, we humbly pray,
and do thou,
O Prince of the heavenly hosts,
by the power of God,
thrust into hell Satan,
and all the evil spirits,
who prowl about the world
seeking the ruin of souls. Amen.

Read more:

http://www.ewtn.com/devotionals/prayers/michael.htm#ixzz1ImlhOBoA

Saunders, Fr. William. (1999). St. michael: guardian of the church. Retrieved from http://www.catholicculture.org/culture/library/view.cfm?id=1217&CFID=75993464&CFTOKEN=31191617

Speaker's Board: "This is my body which is for you. Do this in remembrance of me." Led by Eulerson Pajimula

2011-04-05T19:45:00.001-10:00

The Catechism makes it very clear that the Eucharist is "the source and summit of the Christian life." "The other sacraments, and indeed all ecclesiastical ministries and works of the apostolate, are bound up with the Eucharist and are oriented toward it. For in the blessed Eucharist is contained the whole spiritual good of the Church, namely Christ himself, our Pasch." (CCC 1324) We also know, with faith, that the body, blood, soul and divinity of Christ are TRULY present in the Blessed Sacrament. (CCC 1374)

It is ESSENTIAL for us then to continually be working toward deepening our devotion and our understanding of the Eucharist. Our Catholic faith in the Real Presence is strongly rooted in Sacred Tradition and Sacred Scripture. In this brief and effective Bible Study Eulerson Pajimula, The youth minister at Our Lady of Good Counsel parish, displays some of the clear biblical roots of the Real Presence and shows us that what we believe truly is what Jesus taught and what the Apostles themselves believed.

Click Here to Download the Mp3

1 Cor 11:27; John 6:53ff

image from the 'Public domain' via wikimedia commons. By Melchior2008

What You Do to Others

2011-04-01T10:34:00.006-10:00

I stumbled upon a flyer with this poem and thought that I should share.

The Truth About... What You Do to Others
Anonymous

I was hungry
and you formed a humanities club
and discussed my hunger.

I was imprisoned
and you crept off quietly
to your chapel in the suburb
and prayed for my release.

I was naked
and in your mind
you debated the morality of my
appearance.

I was sick
and you knelt and thanked God for
your health.

I was homeless
and you preached to me
of the shelter of the love of God.

I was lonely
and you left me alone
to pray for me.

You seem so holy:
so close to God;
But I'm still very hungry,
and lonely,
and cold.

We all have the responsibility to be the hands, feet, and voice of Christ, to serve Him by serving others, day by day in whatever state of life we are in. Matthew 25:31-46

* That's some good stuff *

'Call No Man Father': Can Catholics call Priests 'Father'?

2011-03-31T22:45:00.002-10:00

This Bible Study is one of several ‘shorter’ studies that will address some of the 'everyday' questions/objections brought up against our faith. These issues, big or small, can sometimes be MONUMENTAL blocks in the mind of a non-catholic considering coming to the FULLNESS of TRUTH in the Catholic Church.

In the hope of bringing non-Christians to Christ and our separated protestant brethren into full unity with the Catholic Church (UR 24) it is important that we are prepared to explicate our Catholic Faith in its 'full purity and consistency' (Ut Unum Sint 3) so that, like it says in 1 Pet 3:15, we will "be prepared to make a defense to any one who calls you to account for the hope that is in you" We do this in charity for benefit of souls and in honor of God and His Truth.

In this study we will address the question: “Why do Catholics call priests “father,” since Jesus says “call no man your father” in Matthew 23:9?”

Click Here to Download the Mp3

Mt 23:1-12; 1 Cor 4:15; Rom 4:16

*Thank you to Tiffany Mina for sharing her insight during the study*
image from the 'Public domain' via wikimedia commons. P. BATONI PINXIT ROMAE 1773'
Gleichnis vom verlorenen Sohn' (The Prodigal Son)

The Holy Angels: 'Protectors and Shepherds'

2011-03-25T15:34:00.003-10:00

The word 'angel' itself is from a greek word meaning ‘messenger’ It important to know that though Scripture is FULL of angels and though there is A LOT of theological speculation about angels very little has been declared and defined by the Church with regard to details. But of course some has. And that ‘SOME’ is packed with insight.

CCC 328, CCC 336, CCC 330, & CCC 391

So what does Scripture say about them? A LOT! In our Bible Study we will see what the scriptures say about their functions, characteristics, and what role they play in salvation history and in our lives

Click Here to Download the Mp3

Rev 4:8; Gen. 3:24; Rev. 12:7 2 Peter 2:4; Jude 6; Mt 13:49; Dan. 10:13 ; Acts 16:6 Tobit 12:12, Tobit 12:14-16; Hebrew 1:14; Mt 18:10; Judges 13:3 – 7; Acts 6:15; Heb 13:2; 1 Cor. 13:1; Luke 2:10; 15:10; Jude: 1:9; Rev. 12:7; Dan. 8:16; Luke 1:26; Col 1:16; Eph 1:21; Is 6:6; 1 Thess. 4:16;

image from the 'Public domain' via wikimedia commons. William-Adolphe Bouguereau (1825-1905) - Song of the Angels (1881)

Bible Study Prep: 'The Holy Angels'

2011-03-23T12:24:00.009-10:00

The word 'Angel' itself is from a Greek Word meaning ‘messenger’ It important to know that though Scripture is FULL of angels and though there is A LOT of theological speculation about angels very little has been declared and defined by the Church with regard to details. But of course some has. And that ‘SOME’ is packed of stuff.

CCC 328, CCC 336, CCC 330, & CCC 391

Ps 96:7; Dan 7:9-10; Ps 102:20; Gen. 3:24; Rev. 12:7 2 Peter 2:4; Jude 6; Mt 13:49; Dan. 10:13 ; Acts 16:6 Tobit 12:12, Tobit 12:14-16; Hebrew 1:14; Mt 18:10; Judges 13:3 – 7; Acts 6:15; Heb 13:2; 1 Cor. 13:1; Luke 2:10; 15:10; Jude: 1:9; Rev. 12:7; Dan. 8:16; Luke 1:26; Col 1:16; Eph 1:21; Ezekiel 1:14, Is 6:6; 1 Thess. 4:16; Ps 99:1

image from the 'Public domain' via wikimedia commons. William-Adolphe Bouguereau (1825-1905) - Song of the Angels (1881)

Baptism now Saves! (A Biblical Defense & Lenten Mission)

2011-03-22T14:40:00.002-10:00

A sacrament is an outward and visible sign instituted by Christ to impart an inward and invisible grace. Jesus Christ himself is the sacrament, as he gave his life to save mankind and gave us these sacraments to help us lead a A Christian Life.

The sacrament of Baptism makes us part of the mystical body of Christ (CCC 1272), cleanses us from original sin through the regeneration by water (CCC 1213), and is necessary for Salvation (CCC 1257). In this Bible Study we will take a further look at the Catholic understanding of this important sacrament and find the clear teachings of Sacred Tradition and Sacred Scripture that support this understanding.

John 1:32 ; Acts 2:38, Acts 22:16; John 3:5; 1 Cor 12:13; Col 2:11-12;
1 Pet 3:21; G
en. 17:12, Lev. 12:3, Col 2:11-12; Matt. 18:2-5, Matt 19:14; Acts 16:15

Click Here to Download the Mp3

The presentation on Baptism was given in the context of the Lenten Mission held by the St. Damien's Parish (formerly St. Sophia's church) on Molokai. To listen to the entire day's presentation, which including the biblical basis for Lent, Confession, Baptism, Suffering, Fasting, and Indulgences, listen to the Mp3 below.

Click Here to Download the Mp3

image from the 'Public domain' via wikimedia commons. (From the Book: 'La Cappella Brancacci a Santa Maria del Carmine, in AA.VV.')

'I shall prepare Him my heart' - Our Lenten Sacrifice

2011-03-17T11:57:00.001-10:00

According to Church documents, "Lent is a preparation for the celebration of Easter. For the Lenten liturgy disposes both catechumens and the faithful to celebrate the paschal mystery: catechumens, through the several stages of Christian initiation; the faithful through reminders of their own baptism and through penitential practices" (General Norms 27). and The CCC states, "'By the solemn forty days of Lent the Church unites herself each year to the mystery of Jesus in the desert" (CCC 540).

In this Bible Study we will visit the biblical foundations and principles surrounding Lent as we prepare our hearts for Easter

Click Here to Download the Mp3

Ex. 24:18, 34:28, Jonah 3:4; Matt. 4:2; 1 Cor. 1:23; Luke 9:23, 14:27; 1 Peter 4:1-2, 13, 16, 5:10; Phil. 3:10; 2 Thess. 1:5; Col. 1:24; Joel 1:14; 2:12,15; Psalm 35:13 , Esther 4:3,16 , Jonah 3:5,10 ; Luke 2:37; Acts 13:2-3; Mt 17:21; Luke 5:35; Mt 6: 16 – 18; Dan. 10:1-3

image from the 'Public domain' via wikimedia commons. Temptation of Christ (mosaic in basilica di San Marco)

From Hardship to Hope at ROL march 21st

2011-03-17T11:47:00.003-10:00

Dear Friends,

We are very pleased and excited to be hosting a special guest speaker coming to us from Ghana, Africa.

Mr. Thomas Awiapo works for Catholic Relief Services in Ghana and visits the U.S. during the Lenten Season to address parishioners about Global Solidarity, Operation Rice Bowl and most of all to thank U.S. Catholics for supporting programs that care for the poor. Every day, he witnesses the saving grace of CRS dollars and can personally attest to how Operation Rice Bowl saved HIS LIFE!

Please join us for an hour with Thomas and let it be part of your Lenten observance as we PRAY and LEARN with this witness of God’s goodness. Last month, Thomas had an opportunity to visit Haiti. He will also be sharing with us an update on how they’re recovering since the earthquake that devastated parts of their country.

I hope to see you next Monday! Bring your friends!

Peace and Blessings,

Iwie

Bible Study Prep: 'I shall prepare Him my heart' - A study of our Lenten Sacrifice

2011-03-15T22:11:00.006-10:00

In this Bible Study we will visit the biblical foundations and principles surrounding Lent as we prepare our hearts for Easter

image from the 'Public domain' via wikimedia commons. Temptation of Christ (mosaic in basilica di San Marco)

'Catholic without Compromise' Bible Study

2011-03-10T01:00:00.001-10:00

What makes the Catholic Church so beautiful and so attractive to many Young Adults is the stability and consistency of the TRUTH maintained by the Church. In an unstable world, the Church is Stable. It says in Hebrews 13:8 that "Christ is the same Yesterday, Today, and forever".

In my teaching, catechetical, and apologetical work the thing that breaks my heart more than anything else is meeting Catholics, especially intelligent and well studied catholics, who blatantly disregard Catholic teaching. When it comes to being Catholic, its all or nothing. Period. There is no middle ground. It doesnt mean you wont have involuntary doubts, or even struggle. But in the end. The truth is NOT a democracy. Thats what makes the Church beautiful and strong. It carries the light ofTRUTH. Those who dont accept it entirely do not accept it PERIOD. We are called to be faithful to Christ and to the sacrament of salvation which he left for us, the Church. We are called to be Catholics without compromise.

The Bible is very clear that dissenters would come and spread heresy, that the faithful are called to be faifthful to the Church, that dissent is evil and can affect one's salvation, that the faithful are warned not to associate with such dissenters, that dissenters must be corrected , that obedience is praised and desirable to God, and that disobedience has grave consequences

Matthew 12:30, 2 John 1:9-11, Galatians 5:19-21, Matthew 18:15-17, Mark 9:42, Galatians 5:19-21, Titus 3:8-9. 1 Corinthians 12:20. 1 Corinthians 14:33, 1 Corinthians 1:10-13, 1 Tim 4:1-8, Romans 16:17-18, Romans 1:28-3, Sirach 3:1, 2 Corinthians 9:13, Philippians 2:12, Genesis 2:17, 3:17-19

Click Here to Download the Mp3

image from Jjensen used with permission via wikimedia commons. Icon from the Mégalo Metéoron Monastery in Greece, representing the First Ecumenical Council of Nicea 325 A.D., with the condemned Arius in the bottom of the icon.

Bible Study TONIGHT! Prep: 'Catholic without compromise'

2011-03-09T16:44:00.006-10:00

In my teaching, catechetical, and apologetical work the thing that breaks my heart more than anything else is meeting Catholics, especially intelligent and well studied catholics, who blatantly disregard Catholic teaching. When it comes to being Catholic, its all or nothing. Period. There is no middle ground. It doesnt mean you wont have involuntary doubts, or even struggle. But in the end. The truth is NOT a democracy. Thats what makes the Church beautiful and strong. It carries the light of TRUTH. Those who dont accept it entirely do not accept it PERIOD. We are called to be faithful to Christ and to the sacrament of salvation which he left for us, the Church. We are called to be Catholics without compromise.

The Bible is very very clear that dissenters would come and spread heresy. The bible also has grave warnings for such people.

Matthew 12:30, 2 John 1:9-11, Galatians 5:19-21, Matthew 18:15-17, Mark 9:42

The Bible is also clear on the Evils of Dissenting from the truth and that it even affects one’s salvation.

Galatians 5:19-21, Titus 3:8-9. 1 Corinthians 12:20. 1 Corinthians 14:33, 1 Corinthians 1:10-13

Furthermore, the faithful are called to be faifthful to the Church, warned not to associate with such dissenters, that dissenters must be corrected , that obedience is praised and desirable to God, and that disobedience has grave consequences

1 Tim 4:1-8, Romans 16:17-18, Romans 1:28-3, Sirach 3:1, 2 Corinthians 9:13, Philippians 2:12

, Genesis 2:17, 3:17-19

image from Jjensen used with permission via wikimedia commons. Icon from the Mégalo Metéoron Monastery in Greece, representing the First Ecumenical Council of Nikea 325 A.D., with the condemned Arius in the bottom of the icon.

Diocesan E-Newsletter March 8th, 2011

2011-03-07T19:55:00.004-10:00

Aloha Everyone!

This weeks eNewsLetter is packed with exciting news and events throughout the diocese.

Click on this link to visit the Office of Social Ministry’s new website: www.officeforsocialministry.org, and while you’re still out surfing the web, another must see is www.hictv.com, Hawaii Catholic’s very own faith based media outlet operated by John Fielding, CEO/President; Rodney Amian, CIO/Vice President; and Rodney Spradinger, Treasurer/Secretary. Check it out and post a comment.

Happy Fat Tuesday!

Elina B. Simon

Executive Assistant to the Vicar General

1184 Bishop Street

Honolulu, HI 96813-2859

Direct: 808.585.3346

Toll Free: 800.530.1790 X346 (neighbor islands)

Fax: 808.537.1860

email: esimon@rcchawaii.org

Click Here for the Newsletter

Marcos Brackins on 'Good vs Evil'

2011-03-06T09:56:00.004-10:00

Marcos Brackins, founder of 'In Him ministries' here in Hawaii gave a wonderful lesson on 'Good vs. Evil' at a recent 'On Fire' youth event for the diocese of Honolulu. 'In Him' is a powerful and effective ministry, seeking to bring youth and young adults closer to the foot of the cross through the Sacrament of Salvation which is Christ's Church here on Earth (1 Tim 3:15)

Click Here to Download the Mp3

Verses to read: Isaiah 14:12-15 and Revelation 12:7 - 12

Thank you to Fr. Rey Lim , Youth Coordinator Richard Medeiros, and the Sacred Hearts Waianae parish for hosting the event. To learn more about 'In Him' ministries visit their website at http://www.inhimhawaii.org/

Traditional Image taken from http://makemeasaint.blogspot.com

It's in the Little Things

2011-03-04T21:05:00.004-10:00

I have the pleasure of working at a Catholic school. More specifically, I'm happy to have the opportunity to learn every day as I print the worksheets for the teachers. I came across a great prayer that will help me read my bible every day and learn more about my faith.

Dear God,
Thank You for loving us. Thank You for giving us the Bible so we can learn about Your love. Thank You for Your plan to show love to everyone all over the world. We are glad You love us so much that You sent Jesus. Please help us to learn more about You and to trust You more.
In Jesus' name, AMEN.

Sola Scriptura? Is the Bible the exclusive means by which God's Word is transmitted?

2011-03-03T14:28:00.000-10:00

As Catholics we love and revere the Sacred Word of God handed down to us through the Scriptures, the written Word of God. We also equally accept and love the Word of God handed down to us throughout history through the Sacred Traditions of Jesus and the Apostles, either orally or by letter.

Our protestant friends do not accept the latter precept. They believe that God transmitted His Revelation through Scripture alone. That is, they see the scriptures as formally sufficient and so any and all teachings of the Christian faith MUST be explicitly in the Bible. This protestant doctrine is called Sola Scriptura THIS IS A BIG DEAL! It is one of the ESSENTIAL pillars on which protestantism stands. UNFORTUNATELY the problems with this doctrine are MANY. Logic, History, Tradition, and even Scripture itself show clearly that Sola Scriptura is an unscriptural doctrine and was not taught by the early Christians, by the Apostles, nor by Christ Himself. In this study we will look at what is said in the written transmission of the Word of God and develop a concise way to help in our apologetic and evangelistic efforts to our non-catholic friends.

Click Here to Download the Audio Mp3

Please read 1 Tim 3:15, 2 Tim 3:16-17, Titus 3:8, Mt 4:1-11, John 5:39-40, 2 Tess 2:15 , 1 Thess 2:13, 1 Pet 1:25, Heb 13:8, 1 Cor 15: 1-4 , 2 Thess 3:6, 1 Cor 11:2, Phil 4:9, and 2 Tim 2:2

http://www.nativecatholic.com

Image from LabyrinthX via a creative commons license

Preparation for tomorrow's Bible Study. Topic: Sola Scriptura?

2011-03-01T18:04:00.000-10:00

Please read 1 Tim 3:15, 2 Tim 3:16-17, Titus 3:8, Mt 4:1-11, John 5:39-40, 2 Tess 2:15 , 1 Thess 2:13, 1 Pet 1:25, Heb 13:8, 1 Cor 15: 1-4 , 2 Thess 3:6, 1 Cor 11:2, Phil 4:9, and 2 Tim 2:2

Image from LabyrinthX via a creative commons license

'Living Out Loud!' Big Island Confirmation Retreat

2011-02-25T06:34:00.000-10:00

This past Monday February 21st, 2011 I had the honor of speaking at the Big Island Confirmation Retreat. There theme was 'Live Out Loud!' with the goal of

"Inspiring and empowering teens preparing for Confirmation to return to their schools and community to “live out loud” their identity in Christ in a culture that encourages otherwise."

Their scriptural themes for the day were very powerful as well. The two that stood out to me were Jn 8:12 "I am the light of the world; he who follows me will not walk in darkness, but will have the light of life." and 1 Tim 4:12 "Let no one despise your youth, but set the believers an example in speech and conduct, in love, in faith, in purity."

I spoke on several topics including my personal testimony as well as Teen Morality. I believe any discussion of Teen Morality ought to begin on a reflection of who WE ARE before God. As a child of God we have certain expectations to live up to. In my reflection we cover these things and search our hearts and the scriptures of how we are to act toward one another in the spirit of Christ

Click Here to Download the Audio Mp3

'Note - The audio was a little choppy. I cut out the parts that were inaudible. What you will hear is the first part of my testimony as well as a majority of the 'teen morality' discussion'

Catholics witnessing to Mormons

2011-02-24T21:34:00.001-10:00

So I came home from a long 'day' mission on the Big Island and two of my good friends were waiting, in my garage, to ask for some practical ways to speak with the missionaries that come knocking at their doors.

For several years I, with proper catholic spiritual direction, studied the ins and outs of the mormon church. I spent several years 'mormon bashing' and it had very little (if any) positive effect on those I spoke with. . . . I realized that without LOVE, nothing mattered. I also realized though that simply smiling, being super NICE, and 'loving' mormons didnt work either! So what to do? In this 'off the cuff' recording I share some of the methods ive picked up That have had the greatest positive effects so far ;)

Click Here to download the Mp3

Bible Study TONIGHT!

2011-02-24T14:32:00.000-10:00

Despite the thunder and lightning storm, yesterday was a lovely day to serve our fellow brothers and sisters in Christ around Kaka'ako. We were also blessed with the presence of Arlene, a fellow Catholic and Beachbody coach from San Diego, California.

Our bible studies are held on Wednesday nights, 7pm in the youth room at OLGC. Since yesterday was our monthly visit to NEXT STEP HOMELESS SHELTER, we wouldn't have had a bible study.

BUT WE WILL HAVE ONE TONIGHT! Pearl City Starbucks at 6:30pm. Hope to see you there :)

Image from: meckleburg.com

Diocesan E-Newsletter February 22, 2011

2011-02-24T14:20:00.000-10:00

Aloha,

I hope everyone had a very enjoyable President’s Day Holiday. I spent the morning trying to keep pace with Bishop Silva and about a group of 30 AKUA Run/Walk for Vocations participants for the 2011 Great Aloha Run. Come out and join us for next year’s run/walk and start off the spring with renewed vigor in your step and spirituality.

Elina B. Simon

Executive Assistant to the Vicar General

Click here for the Newsletter

Corporal Work of Mercy: Feeding the Hungry

2011-02-22T15:28:00.000-10:00

ANYONE AND EVERYONE IS INVITED! We feed our fellow brothers and sisters in Christ at NEXT STEP HOMELESSS SHELTER in Kaka'ako EVERY LAST WEDNESDAY OF THE MONTH!

So our next one is tomorrow, February 23 :) Please meet at Our Lady of Good Counsel Church between 5:00-5:30pm. We carpool to our destination, so please be on time. If you're running late, please contact one of the young adults. Also, you don't need to worry about cooking because we are blessed to have CHUN WAH KAM cater!

Let us do our part in helping the Body of Christ, the church of the living God.

"Like Jesus we belong to the world living not for ourselves but for others. The joy of the Lord is our strength." -Mother Theresa of Calcutta

Image from http://www.lalolalo-nicedreams.blogspot.com/

The Power of God's Love: Faith Growing Within Me

2011-02-19T13:03:00.001-10:00

Please keep our Confirmation 2 students and the Retreat Team in your prayers as they have their Confirmation 2 Retreat this weekend at Camp Mokule'ia in Waialua.

Heavenly Father, we thank you for a beautiful weekend and for another opportunity to be teachers, brothers, sisters, and students to one another. We ask for your protection over all who are participating in the retreat. For it says in Matthew 18:20, "For where two or three are gathered together in [Your] name, there [You are] in the midst of them". We ask that everyone have an open heart and an open mind so they may receive all of your blessings and grace. Guide them closer to you. Allow them to be open to the power of Your love as they grow in their faith. "For in Christ Jesus, neither circumcision nor uncircumcision counts for anything, but only faith working through love" (Galatians 5:6). Let the leaders be a light for the confirmandi. Give them confidence in sharing their stories and make their words Your words, as the Lord said to Paul, "Do not be afraid. Go on speaking, and do not be silent, for I am with you" (Acts 18:9-10). May they also remember the rules of leadership: to have no complaints and be flexible. We ask this in the name of Your Son, Jesus Christ, with the intercession of our Blessed Mother Mary and all the angels and saints... AMEN!

Image from http://loveoikos.blogspot.com/2009/07/gods-love-for-us.html

No Gifts, Just Presence...

2011-02-17T15:03:00.001-10:00

How do you celebrate your birthday? I would believe that most of us would be in the company of friends and family. Some of us have big parties, like when we turn 16 or 21. Some may have a small dinner. With Valentine's Day around the corner, Nellani, one of our young adults, wanted to celebrate her birthday by doing a corporal work of mercy: visit the sick.

Festivities began on the Tuesday before Valentine's Day. It was our Youth Ministry's monthly Men's and Women's Group Session. Our lovely ladies started on the goal of 121 card and bracelet gifts! Later, the men participated in this work of mercy. Thoughout the week, our ministry along with Nellani's family gathered and made as many gifts as we could. After five days and about thirty people, we surpassed the goal!

So came February 13. Nellani, Nicole, TJ, Ray, Tifa, and Andie went to Pearl City Nursing Home to give out the cards and bracelets. Unfortunately, we only met 18 of the 121 patients. Nonetheless, it was a blessing to be in their presence, singing for them, and hearing their stories. We even met one of our parishioners!

Our prayers go out to all of those that we met as well as those we didn't have a chance to meet. We do plan on going to visit again, with or without gifts, to be with those who are sometimes forgotten before they are gone.

So... how do you celebrate your birthday?

The Biblical Basis for the sacrament of 'Confession'

2011-02-16T23:58:00.000-10:00

Listen to the Bible study on the biblical basis for the sacrament of Confession.

http://bit.ly/bbconfession

* In Summary it says that we must confess our sins to God (1 Jn 1:9). We are to confess to 'one another' in the presence of the presbyters (priests)(Jas 5:16). The OT prepares us for the process of confessing to priests (Lev 5:5-6). We see that Christ has the authority to forgive sins (Mt 9:6-8), gives the authority to his disciples (John 17:18, John 20:21-23) who now are ambassadors for this ministry of forgiveness (2 Cor 5:18 -21)*

Picture from http://www.nasugbuchurch.com/ (Francis Xavier Parish)

Preparation for tomorrow's Bible Study. Topic: Biblical basis for the Sacrament of Confession

2011-02-15T16:22:00.001-10:00

Tomorrow's Bible study at OLGC, 7pm - 8:30pm, will be on the sacrament of Confession (Also known as Penance, Reconciliation) We will discuss what Confession is, why its necessary, and what the biblical foundation of the Catholic teaching is.

To Prepare Please read the following

CCC 1422

1 Jn 1:9, Jas 5:16, Lev 5:5-6, Mt 9:6-8, John 17:18, 2 Cor 5:18 -21, John 20:21-22, 2 Cor 2:10,

Picture from http://www.nasugbuchurch.com/ (Francis Xavier Parish)

Are we saved by 'Faith Alone'? (Sola Fide)

2011-02-11T13:45:00.001-10:00

The most fundamental question of the Christian faith is 'How do we get to heaven?' or 'How are we saved?' There has been a recent trend of 'fundamentalist' and 'evangelical' influence on our local church and many catholics are pinned with the question 'Are you saved?' These protestants believe that we are saved by faith alone. Simply have 'faith' and confess that Christ is your savior and you are good to go. . . . Many catholics dont know how to answer the 'saved' question and those who do often do so to please the questioner. What does the Bible say? Are we saved by faith alone? Or is there more to the process of salvation? This audio bible study will take you through what the Bible - http://bit.ly/solafide

So, catholics are YOU saved?

Yes, we were saved and born again in baptism (Jn. 3:5), We are being saved (1 Cor 1:18) as we work out our salvation in fear and trembling (Phil 2:12) and we will be saved by faith working through love Gal 5:6, as we endure until the end (2 Tim 2:11-12) IF like it says in 1 Jn 2:24-25 what we heard from the beginning abides in us then we will receive what is promised us, eternal life.
Picture from commentsfriendster.blogspot.com

Biblical Basis for Purgatory (Audio Mp3)

2011-02-10T14:00:00.000-10:00

Listen to our bible study last night (at OLGC) on the biblical foundation of the doctrine of Purgatory

http://bit.ly/purgatorymp3

*In summary the Bible clearly shows that there is the reality of 'heavenly' places (i.e. not of this world) besides heaven or hell (Lk 23:39-43; 16:19-28) It also shows that there is punishment for sins even after forgiveness (2 Sam 12:13-18), that we e need to be perfect as the Father is perfect so that we can be CLEAN to enter heaven (Matthew 5:48 and Revelation 21:27) We know that there is some way that the spirits of Just men are made perfect (Hebrews 12:22-23) We know there is a place besides heaven or hell that you can suffer loss but still be saved (1 Corinthians 3:13-15) where you can be forgiven of your sins from a previous age (Matthew 12:32) and where you stay until you pay your entire debt (Matthew 18:32-35). We also know that we can pray for those going through this process (2 Macc. 12:43–45) This place (or state of being) is Purgatory and the the process if our final purification*

Picture from christtotheworld.blogspot.com

Preparation for tomorrow's Bible Study. Topic: Purgatory

2011-02-08T17:40:00.000-10:00

Tomorrow's Bible study at OLGC, 7pm - 8:30pm, will be on the topic of Purgatory. We will discuss what Purgatory is, what it isn't, and also go through the biblical basis of this 'De Fide' teaching of the Holy Catholic Church.

To Prepare Please read the following

CCC 1030, 1031 and 1472

2 Sam 12:13-18, Revelation 21:27, Matthew 5:48, Hebrews 12:22-23 1 Corinthians 3:13-15, Matthew 12:32, 18:32-35, 2 Macc. 12:43–45

Picture from christtotheworld.blogspot.com

Thought from an early Church Father (February)

2011-02-07T22:38:00.001-10:00

"I should not believe the Gospel were it not for the authority of the Catholic Church."

-- St. Augustine of Hippo, (Against the Letter of Manichaeus 5:6 [A.D. 397]), pointing out that only one entity was given authority to make such decisions.

Morality Lecture for the OLGC RCIA class Feb-6-2011

2011-02-06T21:59:00.000-10:00

Listen to a morality lecture I gave to the RCIA class at OLGC yesterday. The lecture is about 1 hour long. I was actually impressed with the quality of sound that my iphone rigged recording system picked up!

http://bit.ly/enetW5

Getting Acquainted

2011-02-02T11:38:00.000-10:00

All of us have our own struggles. One of mine is that I want to learn more about my faith, but I don't always know how...

Here's a suggestion:

read the Bible!

The most I've ever used my bible in one sitting was to prepare for the Kaua'i Confirmation Retreat this past weekend. It has always been stressed that we use Scripture to support what we have to share. Fortunately, I found many, but I only used about five. I don't know about you, but my method was to go online, search the topic or keywords, and CTRL+F (Find). I needed a little guidance, so I refered back to the notes in my own bible and had small discussion with others. With the grace of God, I got what I needed.

But now that the retreat is over, what do I do? I don't need to research a topic, so I can't just go online. I started off with reading all the readings for this coming Sunday. What do I do after that? Why would I read the same thing for seven days?! That's CRAZY! So I asked someone who knows.

...And it's at http://www.veritasbible.com! It's a really good resource for the daily readings with commentary :) SUBSCRIBE to email!

PICK UP YOUR BIBLE TODAY!!
It's the Feast Day of the Presentation of the Lord
1st Reading: Malachi 3:1-4
2nd Reading: Hebrews 2:14-18
Gospel: Luke 2:22-40

Thank You, Father Pascual!

2011-02-02T11:08:00.000-10:00

Father Pascual left his home in Candon City, Philippines, to help our diocese. He was first assigned to the Cathedral of Our Lady of Peace in 2006 and is currently serving as Administrator at Our Lady of Good Counsel as of 2008.

On Sunday, January 23, 2011, Father Pascual was incardinated into the Diocese of Honolulu. This Sunday, February 6, 2011, Father Pascual will be installed as PASTOR for Our Lady of Good Counsel.

Everyone is invited to this special Mass at 5pm, which will be followed by a potluck at the school courtyard. Please come and join the celebration with your favorite dish :)

A special thank you goes out to the Archdiocese of Nueva Segovia for helping our diocese and giving us such a wonderful priest. Much mahalo goes to Father Pascual in his discernment and commitment to the Diocese of Honolulu and Our Lady of Good Counsel. Let us remember to keep him and all clergy (past, present, and future) in our prayers...

Welcome, Father Pascual!

Kauai Retreat 2011

2011-02-01T15:05:00.001-10:00

The OLGC Young Adults just returned home from putting on a Confirmation retreat for 80 students from 4 different parishes at Holy Cross in Kalaheo, Kauai. What an AMAZING experience for the students and our team as well! Check out Facebook for all the pictures ;) Here was one, with just a few of the student, at the end of the retreat :)

Fellowship of the Ring

2010-03-19T13:14:00.001-10:00

It's been a while since we've posted anything, but that doesn't mean that nothing's going on! We're running on a new schedule...

1st Thursdays:

Feed the Homeless at Next Step Kaka'ako Shelter

Meet at OLGC, Depart by 6pm, Dinner is served 6:30-7:30pm

*Community/Lord's Day is no longer on Thursday nights at Starbucks because...

WEDNESDAY NIGHTS:

Bible Study, 7pm in the Youth/Young Adult Room

*We're trying something new! Some people refuse to watch certain movies and TV shows or refuse to listen to certain music because of its context. Well, of course! If it doesn't have a good message behind it, why would you? But how many times do we say, "Look past the negative and find the good in all things." Okay, maybe a stretch on some things.

As young adults, we should be practicing an open mind, being creative, thinking out of the box. We live in an age where everything has been twisted, justified, for our own pleasures!

Through it all, some of our media has had such an impact on lives, but we haven't understood it fully. "There is a reason why certain movies and books, like Lord of the Rings, The Chronicles of Narnia, Harry Potter, are so popular. They fill this void in our hearts that we know only God can fill. There's a mystical sense in all of it. We just need to find it," says Dallas Carter, Jr. in one of his Bearers of the Light classes.

And so we invite you to join us next Wednesday, March 24, our first official "MOVIE BIBLE STUDY". Our first movie will be Lord of the Rings. We ask that you watch the movie prior to March 24. If not by yourself, with a friend or with family. It's a great way to spend time with others as you learn more about the meaning of the movie. *DISCLAIMER: Because it is our first Movie Bible Study, we aren't sure of whether it'll take one session or more. We will be choosing movies as time progresses.*

Other movies to look forward to:

- Harry Potter

- Narnia

- X-Men

- Iron Man

- Spiderman

- Batman

This is the Lord's Day

2009-11-21T14:45:00.000-10:00

One of the most important things we need is a community with God as its center. And we're bringing Him back in celebrating Lord's Day during our weekly community.

We've been seeing old and new faces with a multitude of different views as we meditate and discuss the Sunday Gospel, its meaning and relationship with our lives today. We only ask for your presence with an open mind and an open heart. You are not required to participate in discussion, but please remember those you want to pray for and things you are thankful for as we lift them up in our prayer.

All are welcome to join...
Thursdays, 7pm at Pearl City Starbucks.
*Except first Thursdays for HOMELESS MINISTRY at NEXT STEP, Kaka'ako

The Start of Something New

2009-05-12T20:22:00.000-10:00

We invite you to join us in community to pray the "Liturgy of the Hours".

The Liturgy of the Hours is a set of daily prayers: hymns, psalms, antiphons, Scripture meditation, and the Lord's Prayer. These prayers are said during different times of the day: morning, daytime, midday, midafternoon, and evening. Yes, we understand that as young adults, we lead busy lives. So, no, we don't meet throughout the day.

Every afternoon, we meet to meditate upon the evening prayer. We take this opportunity to step away from our busy lives to be in community, to be in prayer. And together, we share on the selected prayers and readings and relate it to our own lives so that we may deepen our faith and lead others to Christ.

Again, we invite you to join us, Monday to Friday at 5:30pm at OLGC.

May the Love of Christ be with you always...

God Bless!!

My Journey to Kalaupapa and Kalawao

2009-03-31T21:10:00.000-10:00

What an amazing day. So much beauty on Molokai! Going to Kalaupapa is by far one of the best experience of my life!

Waimano Trail with Kekoa and the gang!

2009-03-31T21:07:00.000-10:00

A Friday morning,,, in the Rain Forest :)

2009-03-09T10:03:00.000-10:00

Last Friday a group of us from OLGC took a nice hike through the Waimano trail up to the pavilion. Its been a while since we have done a hile so it took us a few minutes to get back into the 'survivor man' mindset ;) Be on the lookout for more hikes being scheduled soon!

Homeless Ministry tonight :)

2009-03-05T14:34:00.000-10:00

We have Homeless Ministry this evening. We will leave OLGC at 5:45pm on the dot :)

There will be no Lords Day Celebration this evening so please come to Homeless if you can!

We have TONS of donations to bring so help is much appreciated!

(Picture from flickr.com ,a 'Janice Yuvallos' photo under creative commons license)

Questions about sins of the flesh . . .

2009-03-05T14:23:00.000-10:00

As of late I have been getting quite a few inquiries involving various sins of the flesh. I usually field such questions with the template that the two-fold purpose of the sexual act is to

1)Be procreative (Not that every act must result in life but must at least be OPEN to life and

2) Be unitive wherein the man and wife become one, renewing their covenantal bond

The end must be these things not pleasure in and of itself.

This shows the intrinsic wrong in homosexual acts, in contraception, and a slew of other sexual immoralities as they are not 'open to life' nor are they unitive within the context of matrimony. They also have pleasure as its direct end.

(Picture from flickr.com ,a ' Vincepal ' photo under creative commons license)

Kristofferson... Master Workout Supervisor!

2009-02-28T09:41:00.000-10:00

This picture is classic! All the boys working really hard and Kris,,, um,,, supervising? LOL! Dont forget everyone, Wellness Ministry Monday through Friday at meeting room #1 at OLGC. Bring water, bring a towel, and be ready to sweat!

The Young Adults Hanging out! (Fellowship)

2009-02-25T21:33:00.000-10:00

Help Dallas Win 250k!!!!

2009-02-24T01:21:00.000-10:00

This is Surreal! I am a finalist for the Million Dollar Body Game! If I win next month Ill come home with 250k!!! Below the video is how you can vote for me and help me win!

Download the Flier here to learn how to vote for me!
(Then pass it out to everyone you know!)

Lord's Day at Star Bucks!

2009-02-24T01:07:00.000-10:00

For the past 2 years, the Our Lady of Good Counsel Young Adults have gathered together each Thursday evening to participate in the ‘Lord’s Day’. The Lord's Day is an old tradition celebrating the coming of the Sabbath. During the celebration the young adults offer up special petitions, sing praise, read the upcoming Sunday Gospel, share reflections and experiences about the Gospel, give thanks for the blessings of the week, and enjoy a meal together to symbolize the importance of ‘Communio’ (community)

We would like to welcome all young adults, (18+) to join us in our weekly gathering. We meet each Thursday (except for the Thursday when we feed the homeless) at 7:45pm in the youth room or at other sites. The ‘Lord’s Day’ celebration lasts about one hour and is often followed by fellowship among the Young Adults. If you are interested in joining us in our celebration please contact me, Dallas, at 808-223-3249 or via email at nativecatholic@gmail.com

Hawaii's very own :)

2009-02-22T19:09:00.001-10:00

Father's Good Works serve as guide to all

Wellness Ministry: Kris and Dallas Go intense!

2009-02-19T14:48:00.001-10:00

Monday's are rough for Kris and I to make it to the Wellness ministry workout at 3:30 at the church. I get done with work at 4:30 and Kris gets through at 5:30. SO. . . We decided to workout on Monday nights. . . Just Kris and I. Fun and intense :) And of course,, um,, we need to take time out to show off muscles :)

February 20th E-Manaolana

2009-02-19T14:44:00.000-10:00

In the latest E-Manaolana. . . .

*Read about six Oscar-nominated, US Conference of Catholic Bishops-approved movies you might have missed in the theater

*“Ask Mason & Teo” discussed ecumenism

*A 6-week Theology of the Body workshop is scheduled to start this Sunday

Download the E-Manaolana Here

Rally for Traditional Marriage

2009-02-19T14:42:00.000-10:00

Good afternoon. Please pass this on to those who you contacted regarding bus transport.

The bus to the Rally for Traditional Marriage will be picking up on Hoolana St (in front of the school) at 1 pm; everyone should be here no later than 12:45 PM. The bus will then pick everyone up for the ride home at 4 pm. Also, of those who will be taking the bus; is anyone willing to be the contact person for the bus company, Ground Transport? They will need a contact person with a cel phone “just in case.” If anyone is willing to be the point of contact that day, please give me a call tomorrow at 455-3012 so that I can confirm the reservation with Ground Transport.

I’m told that the attachments in my earlier e-mail did not come through, so here is the basic information:

Traditional Marriage Rally to be held on Sunday, February 22 at 2 PM at the State Capitol and will run until approximately 3:30 PM. This rally is sponsored by concerned citizens of Hawaii and the Hawaii Family Forum in opposition to House Bill 444, which will enact a law establishing civil unions between same sex partners.

Thank you to everyone who spread the word so quickly!

Lisa

(Picture from flickr.com ,a ' Hammer51012 ' photo under creative commons license)

URGENT: Death With Dignity Bill alive in the House

2009-02-18T12:59:00.000-10:00

This is a heads-up from the proponents of the Physician-Assisted Suicide - nice to know what they are up to. This means that we need to prepare our testimony RIGHT NOW so it will be ready to send in...and to be there at the hearing.

The bill number is HB 806 and will be heard in the Judiciary Committee. Please write a one-page testimony - more likely to get read - and use logical, unemotional language. This helps our "image" with legislators. Basic message - we oppose HB 806.

Questions - call me at the HRTL office: 585-8205I am in weekdays, except Thursdays, from 9-1.

Carol White

The Great Aloha Run 2009!

2009-02-16T20:33:00.001-10:00

What a blast! Kyle, Paji, Kris, Joshua, and I woke up at the crack of dawn to run in this year's Great Aloha Run. We ran along with 90 other Catholics to raise vocation awareness for our Young Adults discerning their call. This year's run had over 15,000 participants!

40 Days for Life Spring Campaign

2009-02-16T16:29:00.001-10:00

It's hard to believe, but...the 40 Days for Life Honolulu Spring Campaign starts in less than two weeks, and it's gaining momentum. Right now, there are 127 participating cities in Australia, Canada, and the United States, and the number is still growing.

You're invited...to help us launch the spring campaign with a Kick-Off Rally and Candlelight Vigil the evening of Tuesday, February 24 at the Hawai'i State Capitol Rotunda. This is an opportunity to come together as an 'ohana to pray and stand publicly for life in a powerful way. Details about this and other events are on our web site at http://www.40DaysForLife.com/Honolulu/. Share the attached rally flyer with others who are passionate about praying for the unborn as well.

More news...our local campaign has been officially endorsed by two partnering organizations, Hawaii Right to Life and HOPE INC Christian adoption agency. Additionally, for the first time, you can support 40 Days for Life by making a tax-deductible donation through our sponsoring church, Church of the Risen Lord. To donate, make your check or money order payable to the church, write "40 Days for Life" in the memo line, and mail to 94-265 Leowahine St, Waipahu, HI 96797. Your gift is greatly appreciated and much needed at this time.

As we reach our community...with a positive, pro-life message of love, hope, and healing, we have established a Twitter! account. Do you tweet? Look for our user name, 40DaysHonolulu. You can also follow us through our web site link under eCommunity. Join the conversation...we'd love to hear what you're doing!

Karen DiCostanzo
Communications Coordinator
40 Days for Life Honolulu
www.40DaysForLife.com/Honolulu

More effective way to voice your opinion

2009-02-15T08:59:00.001-10:00

Click Here to Learn how to submit Legislative Testimony online

The Giant Oreo Cookie

2009-02-14T13:42:00.001-10:00

I spotted two lovely ladies the other night at the 'Great Aloha Run' expo. Jenny and Kate! As you may know both of them are active Catholic Young adults in our diocese and it is always great to catch up with all the cool things they do! We couldnt resist the Giant Oreo. The picture was followed by gorging several packs of oreos :) Yummy!

Looking for Summer Missionaries!

2009-02-12T09:10:00.000-10:00

Here is a great opportunity if any of you are interested in being a missionary for the summer ;) -- Dallas

Hi!

My name is Ashley and I work with a Catholic summer missions apostolate called the Young Disciples. We in search of faithful Catholics ages 18-30 who are called to serve the Church through Vacation Bible Schools, Teen Retreats and Family Nights in parishes that the teams travel to. I noticed that you work with a young adult ministry program, so I thought it might be helpful to get in touch with you. At the bottom of this e-mail I’ve pasted information about our program. Do you think that you could direct this info along to either Catholic young adults, other ministries, or to someone who would be able to do so? I would appreciate it a lot, as our program is in the loving hands of the Father. Thank you so much for your time. If you have any questions you can check out our website at www.fargodiocese.org/youngdisciples, e-mail or call at 701-356-7914. Thank you again! I hope you are having a wonderful day! God Bless!

Peace in Christ,

Ashley Grunhovd
Young Disciples Apostolate
Office of Evangelization
Diocese of Fargo

Young Adults PLEASE HELP! URGENT!

2009-02-11T10:49:00.000-10:00

Sen. Nishihara is in the Pearl City, Waipahu and Crestview Area. PLEASE HAVE PEOPLE YOU KNOW WHO LIVE IN THE AREA to call his office to oppose civilunions HB444 (Senate version of bill is SB 458). I am told we have a chanceto change his vote to "no" if enough constituents blast his office.

His email is sennishihara@capitol.hawaii.gov and his office number 808-586-6970

This is huge. Please call or email. It is essential. This Bill seeks to fundamentally change not only what marriage is but also what family is. It is also an attack on those who believe in the sacramental nature and holiness of marriage. i.e our children will be told that they MUST accept gay and lesbian marriage. That is an outrage

Kristofferson and Dallas - - Looking for waterfalls

2009-02-11T10:45:00.000-10:00

ALERT - PHYSICIAN-ASSISTED SUICIDE BILL

2009-02-11T10:36:00.000-10:00

PHYSICIAN-ASSISTED SUICIDE BILLS SKIP HEALTH COMMITTEE…AGAIN!

This is an outrage! HB 587 and HB 806, both bills relating to physician-assisted suicide, have been re-referred from their original committees. Click on the bill links above and notice how many times the words physician, doctor, patient, medication, etc. is used. The bills were originally scheduled to go to the House Health Committee and then move to the House Judiciary Committee. Today, unfortunately, the status of the bills changed.

Both bills are now only scheduled to be heard by the House Judiciary committee. This is not good news nor is it in the best interest of the people of Hawaii.

IMMEDIATE ACTION!

1. Contact House Speaker Calvin Say (808– 586-6100) (repsay@capitol.hawaii.gov) and let him know that you are unhappy that a bill dealing with both physicians and hospitals has bypassed the Health Committee. House Leadership should be held accountable for making decisions that do not best protect the people of Hawaii.

2. Contact House Health Chair, Rep. Ryan Yamane at (808-586-6150) (repyamane@capitol.hawaii.gov), and ask why the bill is not being heard in his committee. Let him know that you strongly oppose physician-assisted suicide!

3. Contact House Judiciary Chair, Rep. Jon Riki Karamatsu at (808-586-8490) (repkaramatsu@capitol.hawaii.gov), and let him know you strongly oppose physician-assisted suicide and that you are unhappy that the Health Committee is not going to hear the bill.

Legalizing Physician-Assisted Suicide would:

· Forever transform the role of physician from one who preserves life to one who takes life. This will lead to a speedy deterioration of the physician-patient relationship, which will adversely affect the entire healthcare delivery system.

· Leave society’s most vulnerable poor, sick, elderly and disabled populations subject to abuse and coercion – no matter what the proposed safeguards. The slippery slope to involuntary Physician-Assisted Death would become a reality, just as it has in the Netherlands.

· Inevitably lead to a duty to die, with elderly patients feeling the subtle (and, perhaps, not so subtle) obligation to end their lives prematurely so as not to be a burden to their families and society. Physician-assisted suicide would immeasurably diminish the sanctity and value of all human life

Living Lives of Dynamic Orthodoxy

2009-02-10T11:59:00.000-10:00

The Concept of Dynamic Orthodoxy is something I acquired during my time at Franciscan University. Ill borrow the definition from the University's mission statement at http://www.franciscan.edu:

"The Way, the Truth, and the Life are fundamental concepts . . .explicating dynamic orthodoxy. A way of life is promoted based on Christian truths as they are understood in light of Sacred Scripture and the Magisterium of the Catholic Church while always allowing for the development of the Church’s understanding of Revelation. These truths are lived out through the power and the gifts of the Holy Spirit emanating from the personal relationship with Jesus Christ."

In response to Pope John Paul II's call to the New Evangelization we are called to be Dynamic Christians embracing the joy of life and celebrating the good of God's creation all the while being firm and faithful to the teachings of the Holy Magisterium. We are called to lives guided by Scripture and Sacred Tradition which evangelize the world through words and deeds.

The picture above is of my Catholic Fraternity, the 'Brothers of the Eternal Song'. The 'Brothers' were to me the epitomy of Dynamic Orthodoxy. We were all regular college aged young men who loved life and celebrated the extravagant Joy of the Lord. We did everything that regular boys do. . . We climbed mountains, took spontaneous journeys to different parts of the U.S. for no reason whatsoever, sought out the next greatest rollercoast or high bridge or rock to jump off of into lakes down below, pulled pranks on the Resident Dorm Director, etc. . .

Through all the play and craziness though we were bound by a covenant with each other to strive for holiness and purity. What set the 'Brothers' apart then was the devotion and loyalty that they had to prayer, Christ, and His Church. Every day at 3pm we would gather in the hall ways of our dorm to pray the 'Divine Mercy'. Each night at 8pm we would walk around the campus, rosary in hand, meditating on the life of Christ. And each Friday, at the break of dawn, we would all throw on our fraternity shirts and go to Mass.

The Brothers taught me what it was to be a Man following Christ. We were guided by the words of St. Francis: "What a man is before God, that he is, and nothing more." My time with the Brothers truly formed important aspects of the rest of my life. I left Franciscan University and the Brothers excited to bring God's love to the world, excited to spread 'Dynamic Orthodoxy' to other young Christians, and excited to be Catholic.

Of the men in the picture above two have become priests (well one has and one is still in seminary), four are now full time lay missionaries in South America, another handful are furthering their theology studies in Rome, some are serving America in the military, and many of the others are married with young families. We all still keep in touch reminding each other to maintain Christ at the center of our lives and to continue to strive to live lives of 'Dynamic Orthodoxy'.

(I know some Brothers read this Blog,,,, I miss you guys :)

"Healing" Father Jack

2009-02-09T17:43:00.000-10:00

It was a nostalgic mass for many who were present today at OLGC Parish for 6:30 am Mass. Many faithful parishioners trudged their way through morning traffic to participate in Daily Mass, which was presided by the lovable retired priest Father Jack Niland. There were many happy faces were lit up by his comforting prescence. However, many of us have seen how much he has changed over the past year due to his condition.

I will always remember Father Jack through his memorable homilies. But today's homily was probably the most touching of all, with the exception of his encounter with other retired priests in New York. He extended his gratitude to all the parishioners of OLGC parish and the Faculty, Staff and Students of OLGC School: for our prayers, well wishes and love. He also stated that even though he isn't "cured" of his condition, he is definitely healed by our community. "I don't remember places," as Father Jack quoted about his visit to Guam and Hawaii, "I remember faces."

To Father Jack: We will forever remember you in our hearts, and we love you very much!

OnFire February 2009

2009-02-09T11:10:00.000-10:00

A blessed event. Thanks to Fr. Gary Secor for celebrating Mass and for InHim Ministries for leading the event :)

URGENT - LEGISLATIVE ALERT!

2009-02-09T10:58:00.000-10:00

The Senate Committee on Health will be hearing SGB 777 on Wednesday, February 11 at 3 pm in Conference Room 016 at the Capitol.I am attaching an edited hearing notice so you can get the necessary information for submitting testimony.

SB 777 is the duplicate of the two House bills we testified about last week. It seeks to refuse any Federal funding of abstinence-only education and states that only “medically accurate” information be given in sexuality ed programs.

I read the testimony from last week: the Dept. of Ed does not accept those funds anyway. BUT, the Dept. of Health supports Title V funding. The DOH testimony stated that the bill is not necessary since “abstinence-only audiences have access to state-funded “comprehensive” sexuality programs.

Here are some suggestions for your testimony:

Be brief – make it easy to read (maybe double-space). If you can attend the hearing and give oral testimony when they read your name, you cannot just read what you submitted. They will ask you to summarize your points. Try to add something you didn’t write.

1. Let’s take the bill’s supporters to task for trying to CENSOR other viewpoints since kids already have access to the other information.

2. Reading the testimony: supporters cite the high rates of teen pregnancy, low rate of condom usage, “Hawaii has the nation’s 6^th highest rate of Chlamydia infection.” [Planned Parenthood testimony on HB 330]

Since our abstinence programs are so new, it is the so-called “comprehensive “ sex ed programs that are failures.

3. Say outright that the claims about the failure of abstinence programs are LIES. Legislators need to hear this up-front so it is in their minds when they hear the supporters.

Forwarded by Carol White

Download the Hearing Notice Here

(Picture from flickr.com ,a ' Cliff1066 ' photo under creative commons license)

The Tithe rap - - Give your 10%!!!

2009-02-08T22:40:00.000-10:00

Saw this on Ironic Catholic's Blog. Good stuff ;) LOL!

Father Jack is back!

2009-02-08T22:02:00.000-10:00

Aloha Everyone!

Fr. Jack is back visiting from New York. He will be saying Mass tomorrow morning at OLGC at 6:30am. Be there if you can! He wont be in Hawaii too long so make sure you come by and say hi!

Paji EATS IT! and MEN dont listen to Boy Bands!

2009-02-08T12:42:00.000-10:00

Paji, Josh, and Kekoa decided that they wanted to race... mind you this is AFTER 1 hour of intense exercising! Anyway. Um, Paji won. But paid the price :)

While we were on Kauai we played a game where the boys competed with the girls singing songs with different themes. The boys were WINNING until the theme was 'Boy Bands'. Sorry, MEN dont listen to boy bands!

Franciscan Missions of Peace

2009-02-07T10:33:00.000-10:00

I learned long ago from a very wise man that conversion is supernatural. Intellectual dialogue and debate can only bring a person so far. To truly be an evangelist and to bring people to Christ is to do as St. Francis and evangelize not with words but with actions.

While I was at Franciscan I developed a great desire to delve into the many rich tradition of our church as well as to offer my life to God’s service in any way that I could. During 2003 and 2004 I had been an active member of the “Franciscan Missions of Peace” and as a missionary I had been able to do mission work in some Carribean countries such as Haiti, Jamaica, and Barbados , in several different European countries, and in various underprivileged regions of the U.S. Those experiences furthered my desire to serve the church.

The picture above was taken during a mission to Mabielle, the remote country-side of Haiti taken in 2003. My experience in Haiti a few years back was awesome. They are such a spiritual people, hungry for more truth, more Spirit, more of God. We witnessed many Eucharistic miracles and through the vessel of our presence in Mabielle, there has commenced a revolution in the hearts of many in Haiti. Through the thickness of a government tormented by dictatorship and a ever growing presence of voodoo and other pagan practices, God has raised up strong Christians to turn the tides in Haiti. His Hand is upon them and great things are to come in Haiti! May God's Glory reign!

Homeless Outreach February 05, 2009

2009-02-06T12:56:00.000-10:00

What a great Outreach! Its such a blessing to know that many of the former residents at the Kakaako shelter have moved on to housing and jobs of their own! Might our service be a reminder to them of the Love God has for them!

Wellness Ministry - - Getting healthy together!

2009-02-05T23:35:00.000-10:00

Part of being a Christian Steward is to take care of one's own health and wellness. The OLGC Young Adults are giving it a go!

Are You Going to Finish Strong?

2009-02-05T10:26:00.001-10:00

Nick Vujicic has no arms or legs but has come to terms with his lot in life and he delivers an inspirational speech to these school kids that they will probably never forget.

A Thank you to OLGCYAM from HRTL!

2009-02-04T21:16:00.000-10:00

Carol White, the secretary on the board of directors for the 'Hawaii right to Life', sent us a letter today thanking us for our work on the FOCA brochures. Thanks to Neko, Tifa, Paji, Kyle, and everyone else who helped. We have a long way to go in bringing our nation to fully respect life. Let us keep pushing forward

Here we go! Video from our Kauai Mission!

2009-02-02T22:35:00.001-10:00

Below are several videos from our Mission to Holy Cross in Kalaheo, Kauai. The first video is an overview of our retreat. Bits and pieces from throughout our time there.

The next video is HILARIOUS! The OLGC Young Adult Mission team doing the 'Director's Cut' skit :) Enjoy :)

Jack & Rose visit Jesus

2009-02-02T19:55:00.001-10:00

After being resurrected from the dead Jack and Rose Dawson spend their honeymoon on the island of Kauai.

Kristofferson Angobung the NERD of Kaua'i

2009-02-02T19:15:00.000-10:00

Congratulations to Kristofferson Angobung who won the award for Nerdiest Nerd on the island of Kauai. We're having trouble though for some reason Kristofferson has not gotten out of character since we left Kauai. This means one of two things

1. We need to find help for Kristofferson or
2. Kristofferson has found his true self.

Just kidding. Thanks for your hard work Kris...the kids loved you. God bless.

The 2009 Kauai Confirmation retreat!

2009-02-02T00:09:00.000-10:00

As I mentioned a few times in the past two months, the Confirmation team of Holy Cross, St. Raphael, & Immaculate Conception on the island of Kauai had asked us to put on their annual Confirmation retreat this past weekend. The Theme was :

"Theme: WHERE ARE YOU GOD?

In this noisy, fast-paced life we all lead, it's hard to hear what God is saying to us. How do we listen? How do we know? Where is God when bad things happen to my family or friends? How do I even know God is there? What does he want from me? These are just some of the good questions that we all ask. Also include skepticism, why do I have doubts or questions about God?

The retreat was a great success! Thanks to the amazing confirmation team on Kauai that hosted us with superb hospitality and worked hard to make sure all 90 students were fed throughout the weekend! No easy task! Please stay tuned for more pictures and video in the next few days!!!

URGENT - LEGISLATIVE ALERT!

2009-01-29T11:26:00.001-10:00

Action needed now! Please complete by Thursday afternoon, Jan. 29

The House Committee on Health will hear two bills on Friday morning that attack the use of abstinence only education via federal or state funding. The text of the bills repeats lies about studies on abstinence-only education.

HB 329 Relating to Health – requires the State to reject all Title V federal funding for mandated “abstinence-only-until-marriage programs” and speaks of the “health benefits of condoms and birth control in protecting young people from unwanted pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections, and human immunodeficiency virus.” (Mele Carroll, supposedly pro-life) is one of the co-sponsors.

HB 330 Relating to Comprehensive Sexuality Health Education – requires any recipient of state funding to provide medically accurate sexuality education. The so-called “factual education” and “medically accurate” should be recognized by “objective” professional organizations in the relevant fields. And you know who that will be…not the Elliot Institute [www.afterabortion.org] or The deVeber Institute for Bioethics and Social Research [www.deveber.org]. All the research we see reported on LifeNews.com will be completely discounted. The following pro-life reps are co-sponsoring (probably out of ignorance): Rida Cabanilla, Karen Awana, Mele Carroll.

Because written testimony is supposed to be sent in by Thursday morning at 8:30 am (24 hours prior), I am suggesting that you e-mail each of the committee members individually to express your concerns.

At the very least, ask that the bills not be heard at this time so the real story can be heard.

House Committee on Health

Rep. Ryan Yamane, Chair repyamane@capitol.hawaii.gov

Rep. Scott Nishimoto, Vice Chair repnishimoto@capitol.hawaii.gov

Rep. Della Au Belatti repbelatti@capitol.hawaii.gov

Rep. Joe Bertram repbertram@capitol.hawaii.gov

Rep. Tom Brower repbrower@capitol.hawaii.gov

Rep. Mele Carroll repcarroll@capitol.hawaii.gov

Rep. John Mizuno repmizuno@capitol.hawaii.gov

Rep. Maile Shimabukuro repshimabukuro@capitol.hawaii.gov

Rep. Lynn Finnegan repfinnegan@capitol.hawaii.gov

If you need some “wording,” check www.nrlc.org for their abstinence link.

(Picture from flickr.com ,a ' John_Stephen_Dwyer ' photo under creative commons license)