Table of Contents Page 1 Page 2 Page 3 Page 4 Page 13 Page 14
Celebration Schedule Convention Officers, program personalities, staff Business Meeting Schedule 2022 Proposed Budget 2022 Calendar Significant Actions of the Executive Board
REPORTS Page 18 Page 20 Page 22 Page 24 Page 27 Page 29 Page 32 Page 34 Page 36 Page 37 Page39
Chris Martin Brian Smart Craig Webb Mike Martin Arjay Gruspe Diana Ventura John & Gay Williams Robert Miller Sean Lathrop Hawaii Baptist Academy (HBA) Hawaii Baptist Foundation (HBF)
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Statement of Financial Position Statement of Activities Gifts by Funds Annual Church Profile (ACP) Nominees Biographical Information
Hawaii Pacific Baptist Convention 79th Annual Celebration November 5, 2021 Virtual RISING TOGETHER If then you have been raised with Christ, seek the things that are above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God. Colossians 3:1 Welcome ............................................................................................………………………………….…......................... Chris Martin Worship ………………………………………………………………………..………………………………….………. Freedom Village Church Invocation ............................................................................................................…………………………........ Toshikazu Haruta Video ………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………..…….. LIFE Christian Church Theme scripture .....................................................................………………………………..................................... Saufoi Tavete Introduction of New Pastors and Staff Greetings and Updates from Southern Baptist Convention Agencies International Mission Board Update on HPBC/IMB Partnership IMB Asian Pacific Rim Peoples LifeWay Christian Resources Guidestone Financial Resources North American Mission Board HPBC Prayer Partner – FBC Sellersburg, IN .........………………….............................................. Steve Davidson Video ………………………………………………………………………………………………………….…………………………. GracePoint Church Greetings and Updates from HPBC Agencies Hawaii Baptist Academy Hawaii Baptist Foundation Baptist Collegiate Ministries HPBC President’s Message ..........................………………...........………………................................................... Steve Irvin Worship ……………………………………………………………………………………………………..…………….. Freedom Village Church Annual Message ...........................................................................…………………………………............................ Ben Mandrell Video …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………. Connections Church Arrangements Committee Update .....................………………………........................................................... Larry Hale Benediction ……...................................................................………………………………………................................... Chris Martin
Special thanks to Craig Webb for putting our virtual celebration meeting together.
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HAWAII PACIFIC BAPTIST CONVENTION OFFICERS 2020-2021
President ……………………………..................................……………………………………............................................…........ Steve Irvin First Vice President ……………………………..............................................………………………………........…............ Sterling Lee Second Vice President ……………………………........................................……………………………...............…....... Alan Krober Recording Secretary ……………………………................................................................………………………………..... Grace Poei Executive Director-Treasurer ……….................................................................................……………..……... Chris Martin
Committee on Convention Arrangements and Order of Business: Gail Gierhart, Larry Hale, Becky McGuire, Brent Young
PROGRAM PERSONALITIES
Chris Martin, HPBC Executive Director-Treasurer Freedom Village Church Worship Team, Seoul, South Korea Toshikazu Haruta, Pastor, Himeji Baptist Church, Japan Saufoi Tavete, Pastor, Happy Valley Baptist Church, American Samoa Steve Davidson, Senior Pastor, FBC Sellersburg, IN Ron Shiira, President, Hawaii Baptist Academy Matt Sanders, President, Hawaii Baptist Foundation, and Pastor, Waialae Baptist Church Arjay Gruspe, UH Manoa Baptist Collegiate Ministries, Pastor, Pawa’a Community Church Steve Irvin, HPBC President and Pastor, Pali View Baptist Church Ben Mandrell, President, LifeWay Larry Hale, Chair, Arrangements Committee, Pastor, Eleele Baptist Church Jamie McElrath, Pastor, Olivet Baptist Church Con Wilson, Chair, Credentials Committee, Pastor, International Baptist Fellowship
HAWAII PACIFIC BAPTIST CONVENTION STAFF
Chris Martin, Executive Director-Treasurer Mike Martin, Assistant Executive Director of Business and Finance Brian Smart, Assistant Executive Director Craig Webb, Assistant Executive Director Dawn Akutagawa, Ministry Assistant Arjay Gruspe, UH Manoa Baptist Collegiate Ministries, Pastor, Pawa’a Community Church Monica Kang, Financial Assistant Sean Lathrop, Church Planting Catalyst Robert Miller, Director of Regional Ministries Lisa Tabudlo, Ministry Assistant Diana Ventura, Director of Women’s Ministry John & Gay Williams, Directors, Disaster Relief
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Hawaii Pacific Baptist Convention 79th Annual Business Meeting November 4, 2021 Virtual Welcome …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………. Chris Martin Call to Order ………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… Steve Irvin Invocation ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………. Jamie McElrath Credentials & Resolutions Committee Report ……………………………………….. Con Wilson, Chair Convention Arrangements Committee ………………………………………………………… Larry Hale, Chair Executive Board Reports/Recommendations ………………………………………………………… Steve Irvin New Business …………………………………………………………………………………………………………..…………… Steve Irvin Board Nominations ………………………………………………………………………………………………………….… Steve Irvin Elections of New Officers ……………………………………………………………………………………….………… Steve Irvin Introduction of New Officers …………………………………………………………………………………..……… Steve Irvin Adjournment/Benediction ……………………………………………………………………………………………… Steve Irvin
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Significant Actions of the Executive Board From February 20, 2021
Approval of Minutes. There being no discussion nor corrections to the Minutes of November 14, 2020, minutes were approved with no objections. Committee Reports and Recommendations. Operations Committee 21:1 - That the HPBC transfer the ownership of the Kona Baptist Church currently recorded under the Hawaii Baptist Convention to the Kona Baptist Church. This recommendation requires a reversionary clause in the new deed to be included in the transfer of the property. Voting was conducted via chat, there was no opposition and recommendation was passed. 21:2 - That the HPBC establish an entity presence in Korea through an incorporation agreement with Freedom Village Church (FVC), formerly Seoul International Baptist church. FVC shall comply with all applicable laws regarding this incorporation in cooperation with the HPBC. Voting was conducted via chat, there was no opposition and recommendation was passed. Administrative Committee 21:3 - That the Executive Board approve sabbatical leave for Dr. Brian Smart, June 1, 2021 to July 13, 2021. Voting was conducted via chat, there was no opposition and recommendation was passed. 21:4 - That the Executive Board approve sabbatical leave for Dr. Chris Martin, July 19, 2021 to August 30, 2021. Voting was conducted via chat, there was no opposition and recommendation was passed.
From May 22, 2021
Approval of Minutes. There being no discussion, minutes of February 20, 2021 was approved without objection via Chat Box. Committee Reports and Recommendations. Programs Committee 21:5 - HPBC Annual Meeting 2021 Goal: To plan a meaningful HPBC Annual Meeting 2021 that would facilitate both conducting of important business as well as building togetherness in the midst of uncertain future pandemic restrictions. Vision: Host HPBC Annual Meeting sites in different regions via Zoom where Hawaii Pacific Baptists can be seated as messengers, conduct business, and enjoy fellowship and worship. Strategy: We want to consider having a small host-site in Honolulu where we would host the gathering via zoom and have our main business and speakers. We want to consider a one-day format on Friday, November 5, 2021 with regional sites. • 3:00 - 5:00 pm HST Business Session • 6:30 - 8:00 pm HST Annual Meeting Worship Celebration Note that with the time change, Hawaii Pacific Baptists in Guam and Asia will be participating on Saturday morning through early afternoon. At these regional sites, Hawaii Pacific Baptists could gather and participate via Zoom on a large screen. 14
Each location would have volunteers who would credential messengers and tally votes and field questions during the business session. The worship celebration would include live and pre-recorded elements including musical worship, reports from entities, and a message. The Zoom would be interactive for the regional gathering sites while others would be able to participate as guests without voting privileges but able to view and comment via Facebook Live stream. Voting was conducted via chat room and Recommendation was approved. Operations Committee 21:6 - That the Executive Board accept the audited financial statements of HPBC for 2020, as opined on by independent certified public accountants CW Associates, CPA’s, in their letter dated April 12, 2021” Voting to accept the auditor’s report via chat. 21:9 - The Operations Committee recommends that the six vehicles that are owned by HPBC be assessed and allow the staff to liquidate as needed. Voting was conducted via chat box and was approved. Administrative Committee 21:10 - Redefine role and scope of Programs Committee to develop new initiatives for meeting needs of the HPBC under our vision. Voting was conducted via chat box and was approved. 21:11 - Task Administrative Committee to redesignate the NCPF to the HPBC Operational Fund and allow $400K to be allocated for operational purposes for each year until 2026 or until it functions as a quasi-endowment fund. Also continue to look for ways to build the principal of this fund to keep pace with inflation and fund expanding initiatives. There being no further questions, voting was conducted via Chat Box and accepted. 21:12 - Task the Operations Committee to look at the properties available for sale and create a tier system based on the current vision and priority of sale. There being no further questions, voting was conducted via Chat Box and accepted. 21:13 - Task the Communications Committee to develop plans for communication of the new overall system of the HPBC, primarily giving through CP. There being no further questions, voting was conducted via Chat Box and accepted. 21:14 - Task the Programs Committee to adopt the new initiative format previously recommended. There being no further questions, voting was conducted via Chat Box and accepted. 21:15 - Task the Executive Director Chris Martin alongside staff subject to the approval of the EB to repurpose Puu Kahea to better fit the vision and allow for more self-sustaining operation There being no further questions, voting was conducted via Chat Box and accepted.
From August 28, 2021
Approval of Minutes. There being no discussion nor corrections to the Minutes of May 22, 2021, minutes were approved with no objections. 15
Committee Reports and Recommendations. Communications Committee 21:16 - That the Executive Director address the education of current and new HPBC pastors, staff, and members in the dynamics of the Cooperative Program including the new overall system of the HPBC especially regarding the new HPBC initiatives. Operations Committee 21:17 - That the Executive Board approve the engagement of CW Associates to audit the 2021 financial statements of HPBC, at a cost not to exceed $24,000. 21:18 - That the Executive Board approve Freedom Village Church of Korea’s request in the amount of $200,000 from the New Church Property Fund. 21:19 - That the Executive Board approve the rental lease agreement by International Baptist Fellowship of the International Ministries Building at $300/month for six months and then on month-to-month lease agreement thereafter. 21:20 - That the Executive Board approve the rental lease agreement by Pawa`a Church of the Vancouver location at $400/month for six months, and then on a month-to-month lease agreement thereafter. 21:21 - That the assets associated with the Pu`u Kahea Conference Center (PKCC) operations that are owned by HPBC be assessed and allow the HPBC staff to liquidate as needed in transitioning the usage of PKCC. Programs Committee 21:23 -That the Executive Board revoke Recommendation 21:5 from the Executive Board Meeting on May 22, 2021 concerning the Hawaii Pacific Baptist Convention meeting. 21:24 - That the annual Hawaii Pacific Baptist Convention meeting be conducted virtually by Zoom on Thursday evening 11/04/2021 at 6 P.M. HST for business, and live streamed on Friday evening 11/05/2021 at 6 P.M. HST for reports and worship. 21:25 - That the HPBC staff and the Programs Committee continue to move in the direction of the HPBC Initiatives Proposal in the areas of theological development initiatives, leadership development initiatives, and missional development initiatives. 21:26 - That approval for the portion of the 2022 proposed budget for the line items designated under the Programs Committee oversight. Administrative Committee 21:27 - That we approve the 2022 Proposed Budget (with HPBC Initiatives) 21:28 - That the cutoff date for registration of messengers to the HPBC Annual meeting be set for end of business on October 28, 2021. This will allow the Credentials Committee one week to certify messengers. The business portion of the Annual Meeting will be held virtually and is scheduled for November 4, 2021.
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21:29 - That a designated fund named the HPBC Operational Fund – Designated be established and task the Administrative Committee to redesignate the New Church Property Fund to the HPBC Operational Fund and allow $400,000 to be allocated for operational purposes for each year beginning 2022 until 2026 or until it functions as a quasi-endowment fund, reserving $200,000 for the New Freedom Village Church in Korea before closing the New Church Property Fund Account. 21:30 - That designating $83,418 from undesignated to a designated fund named HP Mission Offering – Sue Nishikawa Offering for use in assisting HPBC churches through advance, assist and initiatives. 21:31 - That designate the unspent Sue Nishikawa Offering from undesignated to the designated fund named HP Mission Offering – Sue Nishikawa Offering for use in assisting HPBC churches through advance, assist, and initiatives. 21:32 - That starting January 1, 2022, all Sue Nishikawa Offering receipts and expenses would be identified as a designated account.
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Executive Director/Treasurer – Chris Martin HPBC 2021 Annual Meeting Report for November 2020 – November 2021 Congratulations on 79 years of cooperative gospel ministry across Hawaii, the Pacific, and Asia! Mahalo to you, Hawaii Pacific Baptists, for allowing me the honor and privilege of serving you as your Executive Director/Treasurer for the past eight years. As of January 1, 2022, begins my ninth year, Wendy and I remain humbled at the marvelous things Christ is doing in us and through us together. My prayers are that our sharpened focus on the gospel and our efforts toward biblical unity will propel us into the year ahead. Together, we are much more able to accomplish God’s Kingdom works laid out before us to fulfill. In these Kingdom plans, we must give our very best efforts. In following through with plans and schedules, 2021 proved to be equally daunting as 2020. Yet, across our network of churches, God has been faithful through the challenges we faced. This past year, we experienced victories while enduring sufferings. However, through each circumstance, God allowed us the grace to persevere and remain true to his plans without compromising or quitting on his unique designs. His powerful presence led us to continue to search for creativity and authenticity as we rose to the obstacles ahead, knowing that He would be more than sufficient for our strength. Although we may continue to battle with pandemic-based issues surrounding us, like lingering unemployment, loss of friends and family, and assorted restrictions, our opportunities for proclaiming the hope of Jesus Christ have never been more needed or pronounced. Our message will always be unchanging, applicable in every situation, rising above the chaos of our nation and the world. The unmerited grace of God flows through the message of salvation in Christ alone for the hopeless in every location, reaching to every corner of our great convention of churches. We have experienced his mercy upon us through the stories of redemption, restoration, and baptisms from churches across the HPBC during the most pressing days of this pandemic. Give God the glory! Despite the difficulties, God brought several encouraging moves to our convention in 2021. Your HPBC Executive Board diligently developed three initiative areas to enhance and enrich every HPBC church in one of these moves. Through theological, leadership, and missional development initiatives, the Cooperative Program gifts from HPBC churches will directly resource avenues of local church growth and development better than ever before. This strategy comes from a deep-rooted desire for the churches of the HPBC to be empowered to develop self-directed ministries according to God’s leading, without undue influence from others. We respectfully embrace the involvement of others in assisting our efforts to reach our regions with the gospel of Jesus Christ but not at the expense of the contextualized designs needed to deliver the truths of God’s word in our communities and nations. Through these initiatives, your Cooperative Program dollars will fuel the growth of local leaders, the mobilization of local missionaries, and the placement of local ministry personnel while increasing our support of the national level work of the Southern Baptist Convention.
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Together, we will pour into the coming generations to empower pastors, leaders, missionaries, seminary students, lay-leadership, and more to advance the churches and ministries of every Hawaii Pacific Baptist church. Our legacy, spanning the past seventynine years of cooperative work, brought us to this moment in time; the next seventy-nine years will build upon the past with a God-given strength and power from our churches as we have never experienced before. Now is our time to make a difference for God’s Kingdom with a bright, intense view of the future. Give God the glory! Also, in 2021, God provided additional blessings through our Southern Baptist Convention’s cooperative endeavors on the local, national, and international levels. The HPBC’s standing across the SBC is strong and vibrant in many ways, especially as we engage our communities and territories with the support of our SBC partners. Through renewed relationships with the North American Mission Board, the HPBC stands to move forward in evolving ministry opportunities surrounding our churches, such as homelessness, human trafficking, and multiple social needs. Our partnership with the International Mission Board advances daily with combined church planting, mission outreach, and mobilization efforts. Working in coordination with our SBC seminaries, our local students receive world-class theological training while opening opportunities for the world to gain experience in our unique settings. GuideStone and LifeWay are exploring new ways to resource and support our churches and leaders, pushing past the boundaries of traditional assistance into new and exciting methods. God is at work in opening ways for us to bring the gospel to every element of life throughout our convention. Give God the glory! As always, your HPBC staff team exists to serve you in pursuing God’s excellent plans for your ministry. Allow us to assist you as God unfolds his direction in your service. As the fully functioning body of Christ, he will use us all together to reveal his will and accomplish his goals. Contact us for anything you may need our support and assistance with as we combine our strengths to fulfill his desires. God is working throughout our churches to bring glory to his name and to exalt the name of Jesus Christ – Give our King the glory! Please allow me to encourage you as this current season of suffering continues: “For this reason I kneel before the Father from whom every family in heaven and on earth is named. I pray that he may grant you, according to the riches of his glory, to be strengthened with power in your inner being through his Spirit, and that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith. I pray that you, being rooted and firmly established in love, may be able to comprehend with all the saints what is the length and width, height, and depth of God’s love, and to know Christ’s love that surpasses knowledge, so that you may be filled with all the fullness of God. Now to him who is able to do above and beyond all that we ask or think according to the power that works in us — to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus to all generations, forever and ever. Amen.” -- Ephesians 3:14-21 (CSB) Please be in prayer for each other and strive for ways to support each other, knowing that God will bless our unity in Christ, centered in the truth of his word. Blessings to you all. Aloha.
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Assistant Executive Director: Advance, Brian Smart HPBC 2021 Annual Meeting Report for November 2020 – November 2021 Thank you for the privilege of serving the churches of the Hawaii Pacific Baptist Convention. My primary areas of focus include missions, evangelism, church planting, and partner development. The Hawaii Pacific Baptist Convention sees every Hawaii Pacific Baptist Church working together to be leaders in impacting God’s Kingdom throughout the Pacific and Asia. these areas. The “advance” side of the Hawaii Pacific Baptist Convention includes Sean Lathrop (Church Planting), Arjay Gruspe (Next Generation Ministries), International Ministries, BCM Hilo and BCM Manoa), Disaster Relief. Here are the ways in which we are fulfilling the vision of the Hawaii Pacific Baptist Convention. Together we will BUILD and SUSTAIN a stronger Kingdom network of like-minded churches and ministry partners to facilitate God’s Kingdom through Hawaii Pacific Baptists Partner Development Craig Webb and I met with the Tennessee Baptist Convention during their quarterly meeting. Tennessee Baptist voted to form a partnership with the HPBC. We will provide details in upcoming months. I met with First Baptist Nashville. Their retiring pastor has indicated he is available for consultation. I met with First Baptist Hendersonville. Their pastor has indicated they would like to assist our churches in future ministry. I attended the SBC Executive meeting in Nashville, Tenn., and met with the executive directors of Mississippi, Michigan, Arizona, Alabama, and the former executive director from North Carolina. I met with John Alison on strategies for international ministries. World Hunger Funds have been distributed to HPBC churches. Dalton Slavins has been hired by NAMB as a Journeyman to oversee SEND Relief Projects. We will provide information on this at a later meeting. His assignments will include ministries related to human trafficking, world hunger, foster care, and school supplies. Church Planting For more on our church planting efforts please refer to Sean Lathrop’s report. Areas of work include mapping key areas that need a church start in Hawaii, working with Elise Tafao and the Samoan Church Plant, and recruiting a new Polynesian Pastor to assist working with indigenous peoples. Together we will EMPOWER and MOBILIZE Hawaii Pacific Baptist churches to engage Hawaii, the Pacific, and Asia with intentional efforts for God’s Kingdom. Evangelism Continue to reformat rules and procedures for evangelism funding from the North American Mission Board. New funding request rules will be updated soon. Evangelism funding from the North American Mission Board will be distributed in a different way this year. The HPBC will make request for the funding on a need basis. We have secured the funding, but we will request it differently. 20
Matt Queen, Evangelism Professor for Southwestern Seminary, will be in Hawaii in January. Ten churches can sign up for evangelism strategy consultation. Working on a one-day training and evangelism day in Hawaii in 2022. Missions We continue to develop 2022 mission projects for the HPBC including the Philippines, Korea, Japan, and New Zealand as well as a vision trip to Taiwan. We are also working with partners to develop a strategy for HPBC churches to impact New Zealand. We are currently looking for partners in Hawaii, other U.S. states, and NZ. Please be aware that IMB is shifting the East Asia and Southeast Asia affinity groups into one. This will not change our strategy, but it will help us streamline some future projects.
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Assistant Executive Director for Assist – Dr. Craig Webb HPBC 2021 Annual Meeting Report for November 2020 – November 2021 Thank you for the privilege of serving Hawaii Pacific Baptists. As I work alongside the HPBC staff team, my primary areas of focus include leadership development, theological training, pastor development, church revitalization, pastor and family support, and communications. Leadership Development, Revitalization, Pastor and Family Support The Pastors Forum for Hawaii Pacific Baptist Pastors met via Zoom on the 2nd and 4th Wednesdays of February, March, April, May, July, August, September, October, and November at noon Hawaii time. We provided training for pastors related to discipleship, finding/developing leaders, spiritual development, Sunday school/small groups, Church bylaws, and preaching. It was a joy to meet with pastors from the multiple Hawaiian Islands, Guam, Samoa, Bangkok, Manila, Japan, and South Korea. Twenty-twenty five senior/lead pastors regularly participated. This Pastors Forum supported our strategy to build and sustain a stronger Kingdom network of like-minded churches and ministry partners to facilitate God’s Kingdom through Hawaii Pacific Baptists. As part of our strategy to provide excellent resources for Hawaii Pacific Baptist churches, Ken Braddy, led a virtual small groups/Sunday school training in May. The training centered around, “How to Launch or Re-Launch Small Groups/Sunday School this Fall.” We had strong participation at this event. While we have had few in-person events in 2021 due to pandemic restrictions, we were able to host Dr. Warren Haynes for a pastors’ breakfast for fellowship and equipping at Waialae Baptist in July. Twenty Oahu pastors participated. As Dr. Robert Miller reported in his staff report, we have been working together to provide support, encouragement, resources, and training for pastor-less churches. Robert and I developed a training resource for Hawaii pastor search committees and have used it to provide training/counsel to multiple pastor search committees. We are doing this as part of our strategy to provide excellent resources for Hawaii Pacific Baptist churches As we fulfill our strategy to leverage the SBC network in positive Kingdom relationships and position Hawaii Pacific Baptist churches to be engaged and influential in the areas God calls them, we have continued to work with our partners at the International Mission Board. Brian Smart, the HPBC team, and I have worked in significant ways to collaborate with key partners for virtual missions experiences, virtual prayer gatherings, and other important projects. Communications: One of the key values of our vision is strong communication. We will do this as part of our strategy to provide excellent resources for Hawaii Pacific Baptist churches. In the February 2021 Executive Board meeting the HPBC Communications Committee notified the HPBC Executive Board of two major communications related projects, which we completed at the beginning of August 2021. First, we completed and deployed our new HPBC Logo and rebranding which are reflected in our refreshed website, social media, videos, and print communications. 22
Second, we deployed new Sue Nishikawa Offering and Week of Prayer content and videos for 2021. I am grateful for our partners at Innovative Faith Resources for their assistance and guidance in these projects. This is part of our strategy to provide excellent resources for Hawaii Pacific Baptist churches. I’ve also been pleased to work with Pastor Larry Hale, the HPBC Arrangements Committee, and Dawn Akutagawa to produce the Friday evening Annual Meeting Celebration video as well as to provide support for Thursday’s Annual Meeting business session via Zoom. Other key parts of our communication include regular updates by e-mail and social media, six great editions of our Pacific Connector Magazine (https://www.hpbaptist.net/pacificconnector), and our “52 Sundays” resources (https://www.hpbaptist.net/52sundays). As we look to the end of 2021 and to 2022, we are enthusiastic about implementing our HPBC Initiatives in the areas of theological, leadership, and missional development. We already have planned events with our partner seminary, Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary to have several of their administration travel to Hawaii to meet with pastors to find ways forward in expanding theological education. We also have a 3-day in-person Missions and Globalization course planned for the end of February 2022.
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Assistant Executive Director of Business and Finance - Mike Martin HPBC 2021 Annual Meeting Report for November 2020 – November 2021 Aloha! It has been a great joy to serve again during this reporting period to our churches and other ministries. Over the past 18 months during the challenge brought on by COVID19, our HPBC churches have been faithful in supporting Kingdom Work through missional giving. Here are some highlights: 2020 Giving from HPBC Churches: Overall, during 2020, HPBC churches gave $1,700,108 through Cooperative Program and special offerings (Sue Nishikawa, Annie Armstrong, Lottie Moon, and World Hunger). As of September 30, 2021, HPBC churches gave $1,163,233. • Cooperative Program Giving – HPBC churches gave through Cooperative Program giving • $1,282,180 ($1,250,000 budgeted). This included 102 (2019-113) churches, missions and departments giving through Cooperative Program. The top 10 churches gave 58% (2019-50%) of all cooperative program while the top 25 churches gave 79% (2019-75%), and the top 50 churches gave 93% (2019-92%) of all Cooperative Program giving. Cooperative Program giving improved over last year by $100,515 and met the budget amountby $32,180. As of September 30, 2021, HPBC churches gave $828,198 and is on track to meet the 2021 budgeted amount of $1,062,500. • Sue Nishikawa Offering – HPBC churches gave through the Sue Nishikawa Offering $120,389. Thisdid not meet the goal of $130,000, however, considering the year, this was an excellent offering. This included 58 HPBC churches, missions, and departments along withthe Hawaii Baptist Foundation (HBF), individuals, and monthly support from a mainland church givingto the Sue Nishikawa Offering. As of October 15, 2021, HPBC churches gave $74,717. • Annie Armstrong Offering (NAMB) – HPBC churches gave $101,605 ($150,000 budgeted). Thisincluded 54 churches, missions, and departments giving both to the special offering andperiodic support through the year. As of September 30, 2021, HPBC churches gave $115,017. • Lottie Moon Offering (IMB) – HPBC churches gave $239,003 ($250,000 budgeted) towards the Lottie Moon Offering and support of IMB. This included 69 churches, missions, and departments that gave to Lottie Moon Offering. As of September 30, 2021, HPBC churches gave $173,105. • World Hunger – HPBC churches gave $33,014 ($40,000 budgeted). This included 10 churches, missions, and departments. As of September 30, 2021, HPBC churches gave $11,601. During 2020, 101 churches plus on department of a church, gave towards Cooperative Program during2020. At least 5 of the churches that gave during the year are not in existing anymore. During 2020, 69 churches gave toward the Lottie Moon Christmas Offering (or during the year directly toIMB). 66% of the total collection came from churches on Oahu and 16% 24
from the Asia Baptist Network churches. 82% of all receipts come from these two specific regions. During 2020, 54 churches gave towards Annie Armstrong Easter Offering (or during the year director toNAMB). 76% of the total collection came from Oahu churches and the Korean Baptist Association gave $3,000.00 (representing Korean churches) during 2020. During 2020, 58 churches along with other individuals and organizations (i.e.-HBF) gave towards the State Missions Offering. The top 10 churches gave 63,627 towards the 120,389 (53% of all state missions offering). The top 25 churches gave 90,872 out of 108,809 (amount given only by churches) or84% of all the offering. Eight of our churches gave to all five funds last year (CP, AA, LM, SNO, WH), 40 churches gave at least to four out of the five funds, 58 gave at least three of the five funds, 81 gave at least to two of thefive funds and 103 churches gave to at least one of the funds (included in this is FBC Sellersburg that has been faithfully supporting Sue Nishikawa Offering for past several years at a 100/mo.) In addition, 40 churches gave to the four major funds (CP, AA, LM, SNO) while 48 churches gave to the 3 denominational funds and 55 churches gave both to CP and SNO for the year. In strengthening integrity and accountability in institutional stewardship and structure during 2021, we have:
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Provided a clean and timely audit for 2021. The audit was completed in March 2021 and provided up-to-date accurate financials and improved the budgeting process for the 2022 fiscal year.
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Improved our process and maintaining records as required by IRS with our groupexemption including updating documents required to be kept by HPBC.
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Improved records on active status of HPBC churches, missions, and departmentsincluding churches eligibility of being in good status according to constitution and by-laws.
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Increased participation from HPBC churches in giving through Cooperative Program and increase participation from churches, missions, and departments to full participation andawareness about the opportunities to partner together in the mission and vision of HPBC.
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Continued to improve relationships with ABN churches in support of online giving for their local churches through HPBC. Continued to improve the knowledge of ministerial compensation along with accounting principles andstructures. This includes providing on-demand training along with improvement of information provided by the website and other electronic resources. In addition, providing resources that will assist churches in maintaining business information at a cost-effective price. During 2021, trainings and on-site financial reviews were conducted to improve the stewardship of
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financial resources by our churches. In providing excellent resources for HPBC churches, we are developing partnerships and relationships with: • Online Platforms – We are partnering with online platforms that can assist churches in providing different ways to effectively minister to their congregations as well as use different tools to reach the world. This has been especially important during this past year with the pandemic. Other resources are being negotiated at this moment include Church Management Software (CMS), online giving platforms for churches, discounts to lower costs for churches in day-to-day operations. In leveraging the SBC Network in positive Kingdom relationships, we are improving and providing: • Guidestone – Guidestone has provided many resources for retirement, insurance, ministerial tax information for the convention. During 2019, through cooperative giving, HPBC was able to match HPBC pastors in their annuity giving, insurance of $24,780. • Mission Agencies (NAMB and IMB) – During the past year, we have been able to develop great business relationships with both agencies. The improvement has allowed for timely receiving of funds for missional work. We are looking to improve on was in 2022 to continue to streamline processes for better disbursement of funds from mission agencies.
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Baptist Collegiate Ministries Director – Arjay Gruspe HPBC 2021 Annual Meeting Report for November 2020 – November 2021 This was a challenging year for everyone around the world, but especially in the ministry year for collegiate work in the HPBC. We have Baptist Collegiate Ministries serving primarily on Oahu (BCMOahu, International Ministries) and the Big Island (HiloBCM). In the pandemic year, we continued in doing ministry while campuses were on lockdown and had shifted most activity online. The following are statistics for our last year of service (Fall 2020-Spring 2021) for all the BCM work on Oahu (BCM Oahu, International Ministries) and Big Island (HiloBCM): • 272 Collegians impacted in Campus Ministry programs • 100 Collegians involved in Campus Ministry programs • $100 Total of all contributions to student missions • 85 Collegians educated about the Cooperative Program • 22 Collegians involved in leadership development • 1 Conversion of college students • 3 Conversions of others • 4 Collegians preparing for church-related vocations • 36 Collegians involved in evangelism • 72 Collegians involved in Bible study or discipleship small groups • 20 International students involved • 39 Collegians involved in community ministries/missions • 1 Collegians serving in Summer or Semester Missions • 8 Collegians serving on short-term mission trips • 18 Churches assisted by collegiate ministry • 70 Number of meaningful church leader contacts Like many ministries in Hawaii and around the world, with the continuing challenges of COVID-19, we have had to reimagine what it would take to reach the Next Generation for Christ. Our ministries moved to virtual platforms like Zoom, Facebook Live, Discord, Instagram and Facetime. Ministries did their best to reach students through various means: continued English partners with internationals, English classes over Zoom and in small limited groups, worship gatherings virtually, online cooking classes, drive through meal giveaways, joint ministry worship and prayer gatherings online, virtual bible studies and discipleship groups, game nights, movie nights online, and small group gatherings to connect with students. The BCM Dorm continued to be closed and Mission Trips and outreach projects planned for the Summer 2021 were cancelled. Collegiate Week, our SBC annual collegiate retreat resumed under the leadership of SBC BCM State Directors, but because of the pandemic challenges, HPBC BCM’s did not send any students. With the pandemic loosening up regulations on the Big Island, our HiloBCM continued meeting in person for weekly worship. Ohana Church graciously opened their space to BCM so that they could gather in limited numbers and observe safe distancing practices. They also streamed the service online for the students that could not attend in person. HiloBCM also opened up the center weekly and for special events, having students sign up for open slots. This allowed the ministry to stay within island mandates for safety protocols. 27
Small groups and discipleships were also instrumental in keeping students connected and growing. International Ministries did not have weekly lunch due to the continuing restrictions for COVID but stayed active through small groups and English classes. Volunteers continued to be English partners and the ministry continued to find ways to connect with internationals. BCMOahu remained online in the Spring. Using various platforms, BCM held small groups, and connection events such as game nights to keep students active and growing. With more opportunities with loosening pandemic restrictions, Discipleship groups of 3-4 met live in various locations around the island. The weekly worship gathering also shifted from completely online to a combination of small groups meeting live in various locations and students online, all connected through Zoom. Our HiloBCM started the semester with a student retreat, with our IMB missionaries, Phillip and Ashleigh Irwin family leading in teaching and evangelism training. Our BCMManoa began their semester with a staff and student leader retreat with NAMB National Evangelism Director, Paul Worcester, leading training in the area of evangelism as well. Our International Baptist Ministry began the semester with their annual Big Giveaway, with so many churches donating household goods for over 150 internationals to come and be blessed as they started their semester. As the Fall semester got underway, ministries began to experience more possibilities with more open gathering rules and campuses allowing more student life activities. Worship services were now in-person, maintaining group size restrictions and safety protocols. Small group activities resumed as well, using the utmost in safety measures. God has truly blessed thus far. We have seen salvations every week since the semester began and over 250 interested contacts for our staffs to follow up with! Many students are also diving into discipleship groups and small group Bible studies! This semester marks the end of a 10-year ministry filled with amazing stories and impact for our Director, Carlye Lawrence. Her tenure has been marked with effective ministry, leadership development, and gospel sharing with hundreds of international students from all around the world. We are so grateful for her ministry and prayerful for the next chapter in her ongoing ministry in the Lord. We are excited to welcome John Allison as the new Director. He comes with 15 years of experience with BCM-Manoa and knows full well what it takes to reach college students. He has always had a strong pull toward missions and internationals, so we are excited to see him take the baton and now lead our International Baptist Ministry. At BCM-Manoa, we welcome Noah and Hannah Denney to the staff. They served with Christian Challenge (California Baptist Convention’s version of BCM) in Chico and bring so much experience and love for students to the BCM staff team. Thank you for your continued support of Next Generation Ministries. We covet your prayers and look forward to how we can partner with and serve you in this area of ministry.
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Director of Women's Ministry, Diana Ventura HPBC 2021 Annual Meeting Report for November 2020 – November 2021 As I come upon my two years of serving as the Women’s Ministry Director, I am thankful to the Lord for the amazing opportunity He has given to me. I am grateful for the support, encouragement, and prayers I have felt and received from the HPBC staff and Executive Board. Thank you for allowing me to serve alongside you. In the past two years, I have grown as an individual and as a leader. Coming into this role, Covid hit, which allowed me to assess current ministry while adapting to a new way of doing things. Today I am looking at Women’s Ministry with a new lens. The goal remains the same; however, how I go about ministry is defined by the current needs. The goal of Women’s Ministry continues to be to build up the ministry to and through women to work together as our churches, ministries, and families serve their communities. Women’s Ministry remains committed to working in unity and partnership with HPBC staff, churches, and the SBC network, all for God’s kingdom. In addition to seeing women strengthened and empowered in Christ to live out their calling. There are three main areas that I believe make up Women’s Ministry. They are: • Personal spiritual growth • Leadership Development • Discipleship Within these three areas, there are specific areas of focus. Which are: • Wives in Ministry • WMU • Women’s Ministry Gatherings Over the past few months, I have been praying and seeking the Lord’s guidance as I continue to move forward. May the Lord guide and direct all that goes into serving women throughout Hawaii, the Pacific, and Asia. Wives in Ministry (WIM) Wives in Ministry is one of the focus areas for women’s ministry. Wives play an integral part in supporting their husbands in their pastoral calling and their families while supporting the church body. In the past year, our Wives in Ministry team hosted several virtual online gatherings for wives. They have been well attended, reflecting the desire and need for women in ministry to be in community with other like-minded women. Our May online gathering for wives in ministry was a blessing to all the women. Patti Webb shared a beautiful testimony of God’s grace, mercy, and direction in her life, and it was a message that resonated with all of the wives in ministry. In June, HPBC sponsored two tables at the SBC Annual Meeting Wives Luncheon. It was a time to be refreshed, enjoy a meal, and be together in person. Our team continues to reach out to wives regularly as we encourage and pray for one another. 29
WMU Our focus is on missions training and awareness. We are working directly with the WMU Council and National WMU to continue to press forward while bringing a new awareness to Hawaii. WMU has been developing and updating its strategy and overall focus. In November, HPBC will be the focus for the WMU Missions Focus. This project was a way to share about our convention, how ministry is done in Hawaii, and how culture plays an integral part in how we serve our community. Women in Leadership The focus is to support women who serve on staff in their local church. Women throughout HPBC are seeking ways to grow and deepen their relationship with Christ. We want to support them in discipleship, resources, training, and connecting with women is essential. As we focus on inspiring women to love and serve the Lord, recognizing that it begins on a personal level, the small in-person gatherings are happening throughout Hawaii from October 21 through 23. Our team will be hosting small gatherings on Oahu, Maui, and the Big Island. We will hear from Kelly King from Lifeway how God is calling women today to be part of building leaders and disciples. We will end our gathering with a Zoom on October 29, where we are hosting our Asia Baptist Network churches. In ministry, there is a delicate balance between being focused on numbers. However, recently someone shared with me that we need to look at it as “hearts.” It reminded me that each lady represents a heart for God. Currently, we have 183 hearts gathering through our events. I am excited to see what God has planned for each woman as they personally seek the Lord, grow as a leader with the opportunities that come their way, and move forward in making disciples. Waianae Women’s Job Corps (WWJC) I continue to work with the board members to provide an online Bible study with women who are part of the Women’s Job Corps. IMB Prayer Adoption Initiative I have been part of the team that is working on the IMB missionary and church adoption program. It has been an excellent team effort to seek God’s guidance on how our HPBC churches can come alongside missionary units. In July, IMB’s prayer coordinator, Eleanor Witcher, came to Hawaii to train our team and church leaders on the importance of praying proactively for our missionaries. I had the opportunity and blessing to host Eleanor. Our team learned a great deal, and it will assist us as this program is shared throughout our convention. I remain committed to maintaining a strong relationship with our SBC ministry friends, continuing my training, and finding resources grounded in the Baptist Faith and Message. Women’s Ministry will continue to be strengthened, and new ways of reaching women will be put in place. I believe that as we assess what is happening around us, we can be flexible and shift with the shifting ways of the world. However, the power of Christ remains the same, and we will continue to share the message of Jesus being our solid rock. 30
Thank you again for all that you do to support me personally. May the Lord bless you! Please reach out and let me know if you have a question, ideas, and insight that would be helpful to my own growth and leadership.
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Disaster Relief Director, John & Gay Williams HPBC 2021 Annual Meeting Report for November 2020 – November 2021 A Year of Transition This year continues to be a transition for HPBC Disaster Relief leadership. Pastor John Vaughn assumed the leadership of DR when Darrel and Teresa McCain moved to the mainland in November 2019. Pastor John served well until he stepped down due to health concerns. Please keep him in your prayers. We (John and Gay Williams) took over as co-directors for HPBC Disaster Relief in February 2021. By way of introduction, we moved to Oahu in January 2019 from Colorado, where together we served over ten years with Colorado Disaster Relief. John served as Assistant State Director, and Gay served as Chaplain. We have deployed both nationally and internationally. We are very excited to be serving HPBC and have long felt called to serve the Lord through Disaster Relief. Shower Trailer The trailer has four shower stalls and three washer/dryer units. Work was completed on the shower trailer, but some minor work still needs to be done to complete the washer/dryer installation. Connections Church used the shower trailer in May when a team came to support their church plant. The shower trailer was parked at Mililani Baptist Church. The shower unit was used for seven days with daily showers by 29 people, with no problems at all. Several volunteers were trained to use the shower unit during this project. We are very thankful for the volunteers who spent many hours finishing the construction, so the trailer is now available for ministry use. SEND Ministries HPBC DR is partnering with SEND ministries to pre-stage 2,600 ready-to-eat meals. The pallet of food was received in May and is currently stored at the HPBC office. This will enable DR to rapidly get help to those in crisis should the need arise. Partnering with SEND enables DR to have a broader reach and continue our mission of “Bringing Help, Healing, and Hope” to those in need. VOAD Our partnership with VOAD (Volunteer Organizations Active in Disaster) continues. Gay serves with the Emotional Spiritual Care sub-committee, and John serves with the Work Groups sub-committee. Gay led the VOAD response to the flooding on four Hawaiian islands in April 2021. Volunteers from multiple local government and non-profit agencies worked together to render aid to those affected by the flooding. HPBC is a significant partner with VOAD in Hawaii. SEND Conference, SBC, DR Roundtable In June, we attended the SEND Conference, Southern Baptist Convention, and Disaster Relief Round Table in Nashville, TN. NAMB and the IMB are officially partnering in global crisis response. At the DR Round Table, we participated as directors with DR, NAMB, and IMB leadership in creating memorandums of understanding regarding global response, logistics, and resource sharing. We feel this is especially important for the many churches we serve in our convention. We look forward to seeing how this will expand our DR response. 32
Volunteer Training Due to COVID restrictions, DR training was held virtually in March. Volunteers from Oahu and Maui were in attendance. We look forward to having in-person volunteer training as soon as COVID-19 restrictions allow. Volunteer Service Despite COVID restrictions, DR volunteers have been blessed to serve in the local community and the nation. We served our most vulnerable citizens by assisting at multiple vaccination clinics on Oahu and Maui. We provided close to 100 hours of service at these events. In November 2019, John led a team of 3 HPBC DR volunteers to help with ash-out cleanup after the wildfires in Colorado. They left warm and sunny Hawaii and woke up to snow the first morning there. In September, Gay deployed for two weeks to Louisiana to work the Incident Command operations cleaning up after hurricane Ida. In October, John led a team of volunteers in New York City. The team of 4 DR volunteers from HPBC partnered with a team of 4 DR volunteers from Arizona to clean up flood damage resulting from hurricane Ida. It is truly a blessing to be serving our Lord through the HPBC and Disaster Relief. Thank you for your continued support.
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Director of Regional Ministries - Robert K. Miller HPBC 2021 Annual Meeting Report for November 2020 – November 2021 As the Director of Regional Ministries, I serve church leaders, churches, and associations across the Hawaiian Islands. I am the primary liaison with regional/associational leadership. I serve with Dr. Craig Webb and Diana Ventura in “HPBC Assist,” which focuses on supporting existing churches in the areas of pastoral support, church leaders, church revitalization, churches in transition, theological education, and prayer. In my role, I seek to support our HPBC vision that sees every Hawaii Pacific Baptist Church working together to be leaders in impacting God’s Kingdom throughout the pacific and Asia.
In the following ways, I seek to support our strategy to build and sustain a stronger Kingdom network of like-minded churches: Assisting Associations: BIBA has updated their HPBC-BIBA Cooperative Agreement. Their strategy team is now finalizing their new vision for 2022. MCBA pastors have met twice to consider the application of Kahului Union Church for acceptance into their association. A monthly newsletter was started to improve communication among MCBA churches. OBN continues to develop their six ministry teams and their HPBC-OBN Cooperative Agreement. As Regional Director, I attend all Hawaiian Island executive board and annual meetings either in-person or online. At these meetings, I offer support and updates from HPBC. Prayer Gatherings: Big Island Pastors gather via Zoom for prayer. The Big Island Westside Pastor’s Huddle meets every Monday to provide mutual encouragement and support. Pastor Brian Frable of Kona Baptist leads this prayer group. The BIBA Eastside Pastors gather online every Thursday. On the 2nd Thursday of each month, I invite all BIBA pastors to an island-wide prayer time that I facilitate. All Oahu prayer groups have been put on hold. Supporting Pastor-less Churches: Craig Webb and I have developed training for pastor search teams. I have provided training or coaching for approximately 15 churches this year. I also fill the pulpit regularly for churches without pastors. Craig and I have also updated our interim/transitional pastor list of trained pastors available to serve our churches. We also offer training to men who desire to serve as transitional pastors. Visiting Pastors & Worship Services: I continue to visit pastors online and in-person. I made approximately 90 visits this year. I filled the pulpit 20 times this year, and on other Sundays, my wife and I attend different worship services. I also assisted five churches experiencing conflict. In-person visits on the neighbor island have been limited because of Covid restrictions. Supporting our Pastors Forums: Craig Webb took the lead with our bi-monthly Pastors Forums. Pastors meet via Zoom on the 2nd and 4th Wednesdays. Topics are introduced by mainland speakers, followed by breakout groups. I assist with planning and break-out groups. Approximately 15-25 pastors participate in each of these forums.
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Language Group Training: Chris Martin, Craig Webb, and I met with Korean pastors on March 23 to discuss future training opportunities. We have observed that Korean pastors participate in training events if training is offered in their language. Pastor Elise Tafao started a certificate program for future Samoan church leaders.
In the following ways, I seek to support our strategy to empower and mobilize Hawaii Pacific Baptist churches to engage Hawaii, the Pacific, and Asia with intentional efforts for God’s Kingdom: IMB Prayer Initiative: Our HPBC staff (Brian, Sean, Diana & Lisa) has formed a team to recruit IMB missionaries and HPBC churches for partnerships. I lead the team. Our goal is for HPBC churches to adopt Asia missionaries desiring prayer support. On July 22-24, IMB Prayer Director Eleanor Witcher provided prayer training in-person at FBC Pearl City. A total of 20 church leaders participated in this training in-person and online. Advance Program: The Oahu Bible Institute continues to provide theological training on Oahu. Efforts are being made to expand this Institute to the Big Island. Graduates were recognized on July 30, led by Advance Director (Gateway Seminary) Dr. Warren Haynes. While on Oahu, Dr. Haynes also introduced his new book, “How to Communicate on Purpose,” to Oahu pastors at a breakfast on July 29. International Ministries: Carlye Lawrence announced her resignation as director after 13 years of ministry. Her ministry ended on August 31. An HPBC Aloha party for Carlye was held on September 14. John Allison has assumed the position of director. Most weekly ministries have resumed except for Thursday lunches. Network of Pacific Moderators: A forum for Associational Moderators started on February 3 via Zoom. This network is structured to encourage and equip our Pacific moderators. The goal of this gathering is to help moderators develop strategies to strengthen their association. This network includes our Korean and Filipino fellowship leaders. As the facilitator, I lead the discussion. Waianae Coast Christian Women’s Job Corp: WCCWJC Board meets quarterly to oversee this ongoing ministry. Diana Ventura and Alma Noble were added to the board this year. Plans are being made to start an online Bible study and create a new website. Strategic Planning: This year, I have assisted two groups and three churches through a strategic process. Together we rethink the mission and vision of the organization. We then develop a practical strategy that moves the church or group forward. Church revitalization requires understanding why the local church exists and where God wants to lead the church. Ordination Councils: At least six ordination councils were formed this year to exam young men entering pastoral ministry. More young men are returning to the islands to serve in our churches either as associate or senior pastor.
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Church Planting Catalyst – Sean Lathrop HPBC 2021 Annual Meeting Report for November 2020 – November 2021 Thank you for the privilege of serving the churches that make up the Hawaii Pacific Baptist Convention. My primary area of focus is church planting. “We see every Hawaii Pacific Baptist Church working together to be leaders in impacting God’s Kingdom throughout the Pacific and Asia.” Together we build and sustain a stronger Kingdom network as we leverage the SBC network to help plant churches. One of the main ways we do this is by partnering with Send Network (church planting) of the North American Mission Board (NAMB). Church Plants and Their Sponsoring Churches resourced by the HPBC Church Planting Office: Church Planter/Plant: Jay & Melissa Haynes, Waiehu Community Church Chris & Sai Thomas, Cross Church Yokosuka Steven & Monica Kang, Waikiki Korean Church (Replant) David & Nancy Whitehead, Connections Church
Sponsoring Church: Kahului BC Yokohama Int’l BC Waikiki BC Waikiki BC
New Church Plants Pastor Brad Dell leads a new church plant, Restoration Community Church (formerly known as CityWide). At the time of this Annual Meeting, God willing, Brad will have successfully completed an Assessment Retreat, the final piece of endorsement with Send Network. GracePoint Church (Pastor James Shiroma) serves as the Sending Church. Pray for Pastor Brad and Restoration, as they continue to spread the gospel, make disciples, and train leaders. Pastor Elise trains pastors, church planters, and other church leaders through his Bible Institute. This is similar in practice to what NAMB refers to as a Residency, an incubator for church planters. Elise and his Bible Institute students are reaching out in areas with a significant Samoan population, in the hope of starting a new work. HPBC/NAMB Resources Pastors, the “Multiplication Pipeline” is a systematic and experientially based tool that helps train leaders and send your congregation on mission. Go to namb.net/send-network to access the Pipeline, as well as many other valuable helps for missional living. Additional resources can be found at hpbaptist.net/churchplanting. To experience a church planting movement, we need: robust prayer, God-called church planters, and Sponsoring Churches willing to take on the kuleana of parenting a new congregation. “Ask the Lord of the harvest, therefore, to send out workers into his harvest field,” Luke 10:2. Please set your alarm for 10:02am, as a reminder to pray daily for more planters. I praise God for his empowering presence for Kingdom expansion.
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Hawaii Baptist Academy Annual Report to the Hawaii Pacific Baptist Convention 2020-2021 School Year Aloha Hawaii Pacific Baptist, Since we entered the pandemic more than 18 months ago, many things have changed. What has not changed is the support you have shown us in countless ways. The theme for our school year “Press On” was chosen as we realized we would need to hold these two simple words close to our hearts. In all circumstances, HBA still believes Jesus Christ to be the Way, the Truth, and the Life and we will continue to bring faith and learning together so that we may join God in the formation of people and the transformation of the world. We are blessed that all of our students have the opportunity to be on campus for inperson learning. We are also pleased that we have been able to reinstitute many of our sports teams, after-school activities, and clubs. These are small wins for our students that at least allow them to return to some sense of normalcy. Even amidst challenges, we have seen service to others within our own faculty and staff, alumni in the community, and amongst our student body. Acts of service have been increasingly visible throughout the COVID-19 pandemic as so many have grown aware of what is most important in their lives. We are thankful for God’s guidance, your prayers and partnership in supporting the ministry of Hawaii Baptist Academy. Through your prayers and support, we have continued our school’s vision of growing the next generation of servant leaders who are positively impacting their communities in the name of Christ. While we continue to Press On, we are happy to share with you some of the other notable moments that remind us that we remain committed and focused on our school’s mission: • Honor the 110 members of the resilient Class of 2021 in-person at the Hawaii Convention Center; • Virtual Christian Emphasis Week (CEW) at our Elementary Campus and CEW Wednesdays for all grade levels at our Middle and High School Campuses, focused on our 2020-2021 theme of “Cultivate,” Colossians 2:6-7. • HBA won second place in Pacific Business News’ Hawaii’s Best Workplaces of 2021; • The Elementary Campus expanded its offerings to include a Junior Kindergarten program; • Eagle Eye newspaper won Best-In-State for the seventh consecutive year; • HBA’s Elementary School set a new giving record for the American Heart Association by raising more than $34,000 through the Kids Heart Challenge; • Len Silva (’21) and Johanna Seng (’21) were elected Mr. and Miss HBA for the 2020-2021 school year. The Mr. & Miss HBA is the school’s highest student honor, recognizes one male and one female senior who typify the best in HBA students, including their contributions to school life through leadership, extracurricular activities and in their character. The award was established in 1955 and has continued to be a cherished and tradition, with the winners being elected by their peers. • Adia Ainsworth (‘21) was named a National Merit Scholar and received a college-sponsored scholarship for academic achievements representing the top 1% of the country; 37
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Marisa Tonaki ('21) had two films selected for screening at the Hawaii International Film Festival, an animation titled Bam Bam Crash! and live action drama Perfect; • Brendan Aoki' ('24) had his live action drama Footprint selected for screening at the Hawaii International Film Festival; • Intro to Animation class taught by Garrett Omoto had their compilation film selected for screening at the Hawaii International Film Festival; • Band, Wind Ensemble, Choir, and Theater hosted virtual performances; • The Hawaii Baptist Academy Arts and Film Festival (HBAFF) was hosted online for the second year in a row for each of our campuses. Artwork & films can still be viewed at hbaaff.hba.net; • HBA’s Elementary Campus raised more than $300 for books for Ka Paʻalana Preschool for homeless children; • In partnership with Kaiser Permanente, HBA hosted community-wide COVID vaccination and booster clinics; • HBA’s Middle School raised $14,644 for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society through various service projects. • Successfully provide live-stream options for our parents and school community to cheer on our athletic teams virtually. • Athletic Awards o The Robert Fulford Scholar-Athlete Award: Dayna Okazaki (’21) and Len Silva (’21); o ILH Division 2 Boys and Girls Varsity Tennis Champions; o ILH Division 1 Boys Varsity Golf Champions; o ILH Division 1 Boys Varsity Golf Titlist: Joshua Hayashida (’22); • Virtual Alumni Week 2021 included interviews from teachers. alumni, and alumni business spotlights; • Virtual MAC Week 2021, our mainland and local supporters came together for their 45th annual meeting of the Mainland Advisory Council, not in Honolulu, but from the comfort of their homes via Zoom. Seventy-two members of the Council attended the virtual tow-day event. While the future remains uncertain, what remains certain is that God is always here for us. He has always guided us and shown us a pathway forward. For more than 70 years, we have grown from graduating the first class of three students to serving more than 1,000 annually. Our graduates and students are serving in many leadership positions in their homes, communities, and churches. This is something that provides hope and light in dark times. We deeply appreciate and thank the churches of the Hawaii Pacific Baptist Convention for your life long encouragement and partnership with HBA in equipping our students for lives of service to God and to others. Rooted in Christ and upholding His teachings, it is our greatest desire to raise up the next generation of leaders for His kingdom in our islands and around the world. In Christ, Ron Shiira ‘75 President
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Hawaii Baptist Foundation
Serving Christian Stewards Matt Sanders, President Annual Report 2021
With the unexpected passing of HBF president Arnold Goto in August 2020, the board acted quickly to bring in former HBF president Paul Oyer as interim president. Paul did much to help HBF continue to function and to prepare the board and foundation for a new president. We are grateful to Arnold and Paul for their commitment to the Lord’s work through the foundation. What the foundation is and will be in the years to come will be largely a result of their faithfulness and expertise. In April, Matt Sanders was elected as the new president by the HBF board. In addition, Stacy Hirano was elected as vice president. The addition of a vice president was one of Paul’s contributions, which the board adopted. Our board, elected by the HPBC, oversees our investment strategy. Throughout the COVID19 pandemic, a presidential election, and ongoing political turmoil, our investment returns have remained healthy. A recently completed annual financial audit found no problems with the management of funds, which is a credit to both the board and the HBF staff. Report for Oct. 1, 2020 - Sept. 30, 2021 New accounts opened
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Return on 60% equity/40% fixed income
19.08% (1.44% over benchmark)
Total earnings
$5.4 million
Balance of all funds Sept. 30, 2020
$28.2 million
Balance of all funds Sept. 30, 2021
$37.8 million
“Foundation” is an impersonal word and obscures the fact that HBF is about people – people ministering together to help people be good stewards and expand their capabilities to minister to more people. It is Kingdom work done by Kingdom people to help other people advance the Kingdom for God’s glory. We, the people at HBF, want to work with • Pastors, other ministry leaders, churches, and other organizations to help them use sound investment strategies to be good stewards of the financial blessings God has granted to them • Church members and other friends who support God’s work in the Hawaii-Pacific region to see how they can use their estates and other assets to invest in Kingdom work for today and into the future through planned giving Contact us or visit our website. Let’s partner together to reach people with the gospel of Jesus Christ and to strengthen our churches as they minister wherever and however God leads now and until Christ returns.
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Nominees Biographical Information Executive Board Candidates (2021-2024)
Naomi Ashman - Member at Olivet Baptist Church. Currently on the Executive Board, if reelected, this will be her 2nd term. Ikaika Higa - Pastor of Hamama Community Church James Kinoshita - Member of Olivet Baptist Church. Currently on the Executive Board, if reelected, this will be his 2nd term. Suzanne Large - Member of Waikiki Baptist Church. Assisted with a couple of church starts (Connections Church Kapolei, Lao/Thai), Financial Consultant for Pawa'a Baptist Church when they were getting started. Currently works as the Hawaii Pacific University Budget Director. Sterling Lee - Pastor of FBC Pearl City. Currently 1st Vice-President of HPBC. Harlan Nakasone - Pastor of Fellowship Baptist Church. Currently on the Executive Board, if re-elected, this will be his 2nd term. Mark Pacris - Member of Olivet Baptist Church. Former BCMOahu student and served on staff at HiloBCM. Currently an Occupational Skills Trainer. David Pak - Pastor of Bethel Korean Baptist Church. Currently on the Executive Board, if reelected, this will be his 2nd term. Wilson Pascua - Member of Word of Truth. Currently on the Executive Board, if re-elected, this will be his 2nd term. Eliaquim "Ken" Reyes - Member of GracePoint Community Church. Served with BCM and Is currently helping Restoration Community Church plant of GracePoint Community Church. James Shiroma - Pastor of GracePoint. Currently on the Executive Board, if re-elected, this will be his 2nd term.
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