2025 Book of Reports Hawaii Pacific Baptist Convention
Hawaii Pacific Baptist Convention Annual Meeting Schedule
Outrigger Kona Resort and Spa | November 20-21, 2025
All Authority with Christ
All authority has been given to me in heaven and on earth. Matthew 28:18
Without His Authority, we cannot go. Without His presence, we cannot endure. We stand not in our own strength, but in His power. We speak not our own words, but His truth.
Thursday Evening, November 20 , 202 5
Presiding: president, Brian Frable
5:00 Registration
6:00 Call to Order - Brian Frable, HPBC president , pastor , Kona Baptist Church, Big Island
6:05 Worship - Kona Baptist Church
6:2 0 Welcome and Announcements
6: 25 Invocatio n – Roberto Villatoro, pastor , Iglesia Bautista Eben-Ezer
2:20 Convention Arr an g emen t s Committee & Order of Business Committee Report - Brent Young, ArrangementsCommitteechair
2:25 Executive Board Reports & Recommendations - Brian Frable, HPBCpresident , pastor , Kona Baptist Church, Big Island
2:40 New Business
3: 1 0 Committee on Committees & Board Nominations * - Jeff Buchholz, chair , pastor, Cornerstone Christian Fellowship, Big Island
3:40 Elections of New Officers Introduction of New Officers
3:55 Adjournment/Benediction – Ben Fowler, pastor , Kahului Union Church, Maui
*About nominations for executive board officer or board member: Prior to presenting a nomination from the floor of the annual meeting, please confirm with the nominee their willingness and eligibility to serve the office for the term if so elected. Mahalo.
After witnessing the efficiency of the SBC Annual meeting in Indianapolis, we are adopting similar procedures for the business section of our 2025 HPBC annual meeting.
We are asking that official HPBC church messengers (who must still be present at the meeting) send in their actionable motions for the new business section ahead of time and in writing (by email or on paper). This will help us be the most efficient in our schedule and with our time constraints and allow the media team the time to print and/or put the motions on the screen for the messengers to see. If additional time is still available in the allotted schedule for new business, we will allow extra motions from the floor. Still, to ensure your motion is given its attention, we recommend you:
Send your motion to info@hpbaptist.net or hand it to the HPBC Executive Board recording secretary by 9 pm Thursday.
Friday Evening , November 2 1 , 2025
Presiding: first vice president, Shane Tanigawa
6 :00 Registration
6:30 Call to Order/Announcements
Shane Tanigawa,HPBC firstvice president,pastor , University Avenue Baptist Church, Oahu
6 : 3 5 Worship - Engage Church
6: 50 Invocation – Bob Gierhart, pastor , Nuuanu Baptist Church, Oahu
Arrangements Committee: Annie Lam, Sterling Lee, Noe Okawara, David Tran, Brent Young
Credentials Committee: Jamie McElrath (chair), Ben Howard, Daniel Magdaloyo, Norman Manzon, Dalton Slavens
Nominating Committee: Jeff Buchholz (chair), Miki Uyeda
Parliamentarian: Ben Howard
HAWAII PACIFIC BAPTIST CONVENTION STAFF
Dawn Akutagawa, Ministry Assistant
Arjay Gruspe, Director of Next Generation Ministries
Monica Kang, Director of Finance
Robert Miller, Director of Regional Ministries
Corey & Sarah Perkins, Pu’u Kahea Caretakers
Diana Ventura, Director, Women's Ministry
Craig Webb, Executive Director-Treasurer
John and Gay Williams, Directors, Disaster Relief
John Williams, Operations Manager
R ecommendations to the
ANNUAL CONVENTION MEETING
November 20-21, 2025
ExecutiveBoardRecommendations
1. That the Hawaii Pacific Baptist Convention Calendar 2026 be adopted. (page 11)
2. That the Hawaii Pacific Baptist Convention Budget for 2026 be adopted. (page 12)
CredentialCommitteeRecommendations
After much consideration, prayer, and evaluation, your HPBC Credentials Committee, Jamie McElrath, chair, recommends the following churches be received as members of the Hawaii Pacific Baptist Convention:
• Grace Church, Kailua, Oahu, Chris Alsup pastor
• Lanakila Baptist Church, Honolulu, Oahu, James Leverett pastor
• Pyeongtaek International Community Church, Pyeongtaek, South Korea, Kerey Smith pastor
• Cross Church Yokosuka, Japan, Chris Thomas and HIroya Abe, pastors
See Pacific Connector, November/December 2025, page 13 for more information on these churches.
Committee on Committees Nominees
HPBC Credentials Committee
Andrew Large served as Senior Pastor of Waikiki Baptist Church in Honolulu for 18 years before retiring. He and his wife, Suzanne, are now members of Pawa‘a Community Church, where he serves as an elder. In November, he will begin serving as the Transitional Pastor at Living Faith Baptist Church in Honolulu. Andrew continues to live out his passion for disciple-making by personally mentoring and sharing life with several men on Oahu, helping them grow in their walk with Christ and in ministry leadership.
Richard Nathaniel Street is an active member of University Avenue Baptist Church in Honolulu. He currently serves as a member of the UABC Missions Committee and volunteers regularly with the church’s Youth and Children Programs. Alongside his ministry roles, Nathan works professionally as a Tactical Specialist with the Federal Bureau of Investigation in Honolulu, where he integrates his faith and commitment to service both in his career and within the church community.
HPBC Committee on Committees and Board
Jason Hew is a dedicated member of University Avenue Baptist Church in Honolulu, where he serves as the Pastor of Discipleship. In addition to his spiritual leadership, Jason is a school counselor, using his professional skills to support and nurture students. His dual roles allow him to live out his calling both at church and in the broader community, encouraging growth in faith and personal development.
HPBC Historical Committee
Ray Kitagawa is a committed member of University Avenue Baptist Church, actively serving as a deacon and co-teacher for the Co-Ed Bible study. He also co-leads the JOY Senior Fellowship and the ASK Prayer Group, supporting spiritual growth and fellowship within the congregation. Ray’s previous service includes leadership roles with the Hawaii Pacific Baptist Convention, where he was a member and chair of committees responsible for credentials and nominations. Now retired, Ray faithfully served as an Army Chaplain with the Hawaii Army National Guard, completing an impressive 39 years, 9 months, and 15 days of continuous service. His lifelong dedication to ministry and military service continues to inspire those around him.
Daniel Tom is a valued member of University Avenue Baptist Church, where he serves as a deacon and volunteers as an English teacher for the Internationals Ministry. Throughout his distinguished career, Daniel worked for forty years as a Program Coordinator at the University of Hawaii Center for Language and Technology before retiring. His lifelong dedication to education and service reflects his commitment to supporting both the church community and newcomers seeking language and connection in Honolulu.
Arrangements Committee
Glynis Keefer has been a faithful member of Kona Baptist Church since June 2019. She currently serves as Church Secretary and Treasurer and has been the Team Leader for the annual Japan Ladies Mission Trip for three years. Glynis is an active member of the Evangelism & Mission and Ministry Teams, leads the “Scrappin’ Sisters” ladies outreach ministry, and coordinates Vacation Bible School as a team leader. Before moving to Hawaii, Glynis built a diverse career in Colorado, working as an owner and manager of travel agencies, a supervisor and trainer at the Choice Hotels International call center, and Workforce Manager, and Training Supervisor for a large health care call center. Her broad experience and commitment to service enrich both her church and her community.
Frances Lee has been a faithful member of Eleele Baptist Church in Kaua‘i, since 2018, serving in multiple capacities. She has led and coordinated VBS for the past several years, oversees our Sunday worship video ministry and gets services online, and helps coordinate youth ministry and youth camp. Frances also serves extensively in our food ministries and is consistently dependable and dedicated. Professionally, she has a strong background in computers and IT and currently works as a data analyst under contract with the Navy. Originally from Guam, she is married to one of our deacons (who also serves as our treasurer), and they have three children.
Tony Velasco is a dedicated member of Kalihi Baptist Church, where he serves as Vice Chairperson for church building and grounds, ensuring the facilities are well-maintained and welcoming. He is also an active member of the church’s praise and worship team, contributing to the spiritual life of the congregation. Professionally, Tony is employed at the State of Hawaii Tax Office, where he brings his dedication to service from the church community into his public work.
Executive Board
Dr. John Blackmon is the Lead Pastor at Calvary International Church in Bangkok, Thailand. Originally from Mississippi, John has previously pastored several churches in the United States before accepting his current role overseas. He is married to Cheryl and is the proud father of Lillie Jo and Josiah. John’s extensive pastoral experience and dedication to ministry continue to bless his congregation and the international community in Bangkok.
Faleiva Hunt serves as the pastor’s wife at Malama Christian Fellowship in Waianae, where she is actively involved in Children’s Church, Women’s Ministry, and coordinates events for the congregation. Raised in a Christian military family with five siblings, Faleiva’s upbringing in church shaped her faith and led her to meet “the love of my life,” Pastor Eddie Hunt Jr., to whom she has been married for 28 years. Together, they have a daughter, Melmarie, who enjoys assisting her dad in ministry and is now age 11. Faleiva also works at Waianae High School, which she considers her personal mission field, pouring her heart into serving students and the community.
Adam Tengan serves as a trustee and Youth Coordinator at Kalihi Baptist Church, where he is also known for his technical expertise as the church’s Audio/Video tech person. In addition to his leadership roles within the church, Adam is self-employed, bringing creativity and skills to both his professional work and his ministry to youth and the broader congregation.
Johnny Lau serves as a leader at Living Faith Baptist Church since its inception in 2013. He retired from Bank of Hawaii a few years ago and is working on a Master of Divinity at Gateway Seminary. He is married and has one son, who is in college. He has served with Disaster Relief with HPBC.
Hanale Lindo is the pastor of Kaunakakai Baptist Church since August 2020. He loves Jesus and doing ministry work on Molokai with his wife, Zhantell. He has 8 children and 20 grandchildren. He retired as the Assistant Chief of Operations from the Maui Fire Dept at the end of November 2024 with 30 years of service.
Neil Nakama was born and raised in Honolulu but moved to Maui in the 1980’s where he met his wife Phyllis, who is a Maui girl. They got married in 1992 and have 2 adult children. His son Ty works for Valley Isle Fellowship (VIF) and his daughter works for Kula Glass Company. Neil and his wife are currently retired and attend VIF.
Anson Okimoto has been a member of Olivet Baptist Church since the 1980s. He is married and has two daughters, one living in Hawaii and the other in California. He worked for the federal government as an auditor with the United States Trustee Program for 33 years and retired in 2022. In 2023, he and his wife started spending time in California caring for their first grandson. Due to his travel schedule, he resigned as Olivet’s Treasurer in August 2023 and no longer serves in any social position or on any committee. He hopes to return to serving Olivet again in 2026 when his travel commitments lessen.
Resolution 1
WHEREAS, the messengers and guests of the 84th Annual Session of the Hawaii Pacific Baptist Convention have enjoyed the beautiful setting and warm hospitality of the Outrigger Kona Resort and Spa; and
WHEREAS, we gratefully acknowledge the partnership and faithful service of the staff and members of Kona Baptist Church, whose support has helped make this annual meeting possible; and
WHEREAS, we especially wish to express appreciation to Pastor Brian Frable; Glynis Keefer, Office Manager; and to all the volunteers who have provided transportation, coordination, and the spirit of aloha throughout this gathering;
BE IT RESOLVED, that on this 20th day of November 2025, the messengers of the Hawaii Pacific Baptist Convention express our heartfelt gratitude to Kona Baptist Church, the Outrigger Kona Resort and Spa, and all who have contributed to the success, fellowship, and effectiveness of this 84th Annual Meeting.
Resolution 2
WHEREAS, the continuing ministry of the Hawaii Pacific Baptist Convention is made possible through the faithful service of volunteer leadership; and
WHEREAS, the Convention Officers President Brian Frable, First Vice President Shane Tanigawa, and Second Vice President Larry Hale have served with dedication and faithfulness throughout this past year; and
WHEREAS, the members of the Executive Board have likewise served with commitment and excellence, providing wise counsel, prayerful guidance, and effective leadership to the work of the Convention;
BE IT RESOLVED, that on this 21st day of November, 2025, the messengers of the Hawaii Pacific Baptist Convention express heartfelt appreciation to all who have served faithfully as Convention Officers and Executive Board members, and especially to those who are completing their terms of service; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that we recognize these leaders for their highly effective service and for their personal sacrifice of time, energy, and devotion in guiding the work of our Convention.
Resolution 3
WHEREAS, the entities of the Southern Baptist Convention serve as valuable partners and sources of encouragement to the Hawaii Pacific Baptist Convention, providing ministry resources, guidance, and program expertise; and WHEREAS, GuideStone Financial Resources, the International Mission Board, LifeWay Christian Resources, the North American Mission Board, and the Southern Baptist Convention Executive Committee have sent representatives whose participation has added inspiration and valuable information to our annual session;
BE IT RESOLVED, that on this 21st day of November, 2025, the messengers of the Hawaii Pacific Baptist Convention express heartfelt appreciation to these Southern Baptist Convention entity leaders, and extend to them our warmest “Aloha” and most sincere “Mahalo.”
Resolution 4
WHEREAS, the work of the Committee on Arrangements and Order of Business is essential to the effectiveness and organization of the annual meeting of the Hawaii Pacific Baptist Convention; and WHEREAS, this year’s committee Brent Young, Chair (University Avenue Baptist Church); Annie Lam, Vice Chair (Living Faith Baptist Church); Sterling Lee (First Baptist Church of Pearl City); Noelani Okawara (Life Christian Church); and David Tran (Dong Tam Baptist Church) has met faithfully throughout the year to plan the location, schedule, and elements of this 84th Annual Meeting; and WHEREAS, their careful preparation, attention to detail, and cooperative spirit have contributed significantly to the smooth conduct and meaningful experience of this gathering; and
WHEREAS, the messengers of the Hawaii Pacific Baptist Convention also express special appreciation to Dawn Akutagawa, who has provided exceptional staff support in coordinating registration, communications, and logistical details for this annual meeting; BE IT RESOLVED, that on this 21st day of November, 2025, the messengers of the Hawaii Pacific Baptist Convention extend heartfelt gratitude to the Committee on Arrangements and Order of Business and to Dawn Akutagawa for their outstanding service, faithful leadership, and valuable contribution to the success of this year’s annual meeting.
January 27 , 202 5
Significant Actions of the Executive Board
Voting was conducted via email
25:1 - Recommends that the Executive Board award each of the following scholarship new applicants, who met the full-time enrollment requirements, a theological initiative scholarship in the amount of $1,250 for the 2025 spring semester:
1. William Hall (Koza Baptist): Southern Baptist Theological Seminary (DMISS)
3. Andrew Tong (Hawaii Chinese): Gateway Seminary (DMin)
25:2 - Recommends that the Executive Board award each of the following scholarship renewal applicants, who met the full-time enrollment requirements, a theological initiative scholarship in the amount of $1,250 for the 2025 spring semester:
1. David McElrath (LIFE Christian Church): Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary (MDiv)
25:3 - Recommends that the Executive Board award the following scholarship renewal applicants, who met the part-time enrollment requirements, a theological initiative scholarship in the amount of $625 for the 2025 spring semester:
1. Kerey Smith (Freedom Village): Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary (MDiv)
25:4 - Recommends that the Executive Board award the following scholarship renewal applicants, who met the full-time enrollment requirements, a theological initiative scholarship in the amounts of $1062.50 (Jeff) and $750 (Gay), respectively, for the 2025 spring semester:
1. Jeff Buchholz (Cornerstone Christian): Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary (DEdMin)
2. Gay Williams (Hawaii Kai): Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary (DMin)
February 21, 2025
25:5 - Recommends that the Executive Board approve the new signers for the Hawaii Baptist Convention for the Bank of Hawaii: Craig Webb, Executive Director/Treasurer; Brian Frable, President; Shane Tanigawa, First Vice-President; Larry Hale, Second Vice-President, Monica Kang, Director of Finance; Robert Miller, Director of Regional Ministry; and Arjay Gruspe, Director of Next Generation Ministries.
25:6 - Recommends that the Executive Board approve the total expenditure objective for 2026 Budget to be more than $1,110,000 and the Cooperative Program total giving goal to be no less that $1,110,000 per section eight of the Executive Board Policy Manual.
25:7 - Recommends that the Executive Board approve the engagement of CW Associates to audit the 2024 financial statements of the HPBC.
25:8 - Recommends that Lester Kaneta be approved for a four-year term to the Board of Directors for the Hawaii Baptist Foundation.
25:9 - Recommends that the Executive Board appoint a task force to review, update and submit proposed changes to the HPBC Constitution and By-laws in accordance with those documents to be voted upon by the messengers at the 2025 HPBC Annual Meeting. The proposed changes are to be available in print and/or by electronic means to the churches and messengers no later than 30 days prior to the start of the 2025 HPBC Annual Meeting. The proposed changes should include but not be limited to the following areas and in accordance to current laws:
1. Language clarifications of outdated terms, titles, or language.
2. Membership, withdrawal, or removal of a church processes and clarification of a cooperating, contributing Baptist church.
3. The Committees of the Convention in its role and makeup of the committee
4. The number and composition of Executive Board members
5. Executive Board Officers roles and responsibilities with a defined succession plan
6. Policies, Composition and Duties of Convention Committees including but not limited to committee structures, personnel, and scope of duties.
7. Updated guidance based upon non-profit governance including but not limited to electronic meetings, and updated laws affecting non-profit corporations.
The proposed changes are to be available in print and/or by electronic means to the churches and messengers no later than 30 days prior to the start of the 2025 HPBC Annual Meeting.
25:10 - Recommends that the Executive Board transfer $67,359 from the Operational Fund to the Pu'u Kahea Operational Fund to cover the 2024 designated fund deficit.
25:11 - Recommends the Executive Board approve the request from Pastor Shaw Okawara at Life Christian Church to renovate the property with a caveat that they obtain the proper building permits and engage licensed parties (i.e.- architect, contractors, etc.).
25:12 - Recommends the Executive Board to task the Executive Director to have our attorney review the existing facilities use agreement for proper legal opinion and to see if it addresses our liability concerns.
25:13 - Recommends the Executive Board approve Pu'u Kahea Conference Center's 2025 Request For Funds item #1 for $25,000 for emergency repairs while the Operations Committee continues to review the situation.
25:14 - Recommends to the Executive Board to task the Executive Director with making a plea for assistance by asking our churches to partner together specifically by helping with specific needs on the Pu'u Kahea Conference Center request list.
25:15 - Recommends to the Executive Board to reaffirm board practices in accordance with section eight of the Executive Board policies regarding budget process.
25:16 - Recommends to the Executive Board to approve a provisional appointment of Glen Basuel to the Executive Board for the remainder of the 2025 term.
May 9, 2025
25:17 - Recommendation to approve minutes of February 21, 2025, meeting by Anson Okimoto, seconded by Sandy Pedersen. Motion approved.
25:18 - Recommends that the Executive Board accept the audited financial statements of HPBC for 2024, as opined on by independent certified public accountants, CW Associates, CPA’s, in their letter dated May, xx, 2025. Motion made by the Operations Chair, Eric Dissinger, seconded by Daniel Tomita. With no discussion or questions, motion approved.
25:19 - Recommends that the Executive Board approve Hawaii Pacific Baptist Convention (HPBC) Leadership Development Initiative, First-Year Leadership Subsidy grant applicant Jeff Fisher (Kihei Baptist Chapel) with a grant award for the period of May 9, 2025, April 30, 2026 (12 months) in the amount of $1,000 per month ($12,000 total). Motion made by the Programs Committee chair, Hanale Lindo, with no need for a second. After a short discussion and a few clarifications, motion passed.
25:20 - Recommends that the Hawaii Baptist Academy update language and relevant sections in their constitution and bylaws. The communications committee is available in this process to collaborate and provide any feedback in order to maintain unity and consistency amongst our organizations. Before new constitution and bylaws are engaged, a legal review should be conducted and proposed new constitution and bylaws need to be submitted to the Hawaii Pacific Baptist Convention Executive Board for final approval, as required by Article IV, Section 5 of the HPBC Constitution. The Motion was made by the Communications Committee, Paula Higuchi, with no need for a second. After a brief discussion and explanation, Motion passed.
25:21 - Recommends that the Hawaii Baptist Foundation update language and relevant sections in their constitution and bylaws. The communications committee is available in this process to collaborate and provide any feedback in order to maintain unity and consistency amongst our organizations. Before new constitution and bylaws are engaged, a legal review should be conducted and proposed new constitution and bylaws need to be submitted to the Hawaii Pacific Baptist Convention Executive Board for final approval, as required by Article IV, Section 5 of the HPBC Constitution. The Motion was made by the Communications Committee, Paula Higuchi, with no need for a second. After a brief discussion and explanation, Motion passed.
25:22 - Recommends that the HPBC Executive Board increase the PKCC Caretaker’s annual compensation by $5,500 effective September 1, 2025. Motion passed.
25:23 - Recommends that the Executive Board pay Sarah Perkin’s health insurance effective September 1, 2025 at cost of $8400 annually. Discussion: after clarification provided that this ensures coverage as previous COBRA benefits were ending. Motion passed.
25:24 - Recommends that the HPBC Executive Board pay the PKCC Caretaker a one-time bonus of $2,000 for his efforts in getting PKCC back to operating status. Discussion: this is a straight bonus with no retirement paid in addition. Motion passed.
25:25 - Recommends that the Executive Board award new applicant Joel Kaminaga (Tokyo Baptist Church), Southeastern Baptist Theological DMin student, a theological initiative scholarship in the amount of $1,250 for the 2025 fall semester. Motion passed unanimously.
25:26 - Recommends that the Executive Board award new applicant Koichiro Izumi (Yokohama International Church), Southern Baptist Theological Seminary MDiv. student, a theological initiative scholarship in the amount of $625 for the 2025 fall semester. Motion passed unanimously.
25:27 - Recommends that the Executive Board award the following 2025 fall semester scholarship amounts for these renewing applicants: Andrew Tong (Hawaii Chinese Baptist Church), Gateway Seminary, DMin, $1250. David McElrath (Life Christian Church), Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary, MDiv., $1250. Noah Denney (Pawaa Community Church), Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary, M.Div., $1250. Shaw Okawara (Life Christian Church), Southern Baptist Theological Seminary, D.Min., $1250. Nao Nohmi (Kihei Baptist Church), Southern Baptist Theological Seminary, DEd., $1250. Todd Morikawa (Kailua Baptist Church), Southern Baptist Theological Seminary, Ph.D., $1140. Jeff Buchholz (Cornerstone Christian Church), Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary, D.Ed. Min., $1125. Kerey Smith (Freedom Village Church), Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary, M.Div., $625. Gay Williams (Hawaii Kai Church), Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary, D.Min., $562.50. After correction was made that David McElrath’s degree was MDiv, motion passed unanimously.
25:28 - Recommends that the Executive Board approve the 2026 HPBC calendar. Amendment to move the February 20th Executive Board meeting to February 27 due to the HBA Mainland Advisory Committee scheduling conflict. Moved by Paula Higuchi. Seconded Shane Tanigawa. Motion passed as amended.
25:29 - Recommends that the Executive Board empower the HPBC Executive DirectorTreasurer to engage Gateway Seminary in the pursuit of establishing a seminary campus location on Oahu in partnership together. Amendment to change language from "engage Gateway Seminary in pursuit" to "establish partnership" recognizing engagement has already begun. Moved by Shane Tanigawa. Seconded by Anson Okimoto. Extensive discussion pursued about timing, communication to churches, and authority to establish partnership without messenger vote. The Board ruled this as a partnership rather than a new program, not requiring annual meeting approval. Amended motion passed.
Communications Committee Recommendations:
25:30 - Recommends that the Executive Board task the Executive Director-Treasurer to communicate with HPBC churches through appropriate communication channels about the sexual misconduct reporting and response resources, including providing an update at the HPBC annual meeting, and request consideration for a booth at the annual meeting to continue to promote such resources. Motion passed.
25:31 - Recommends that the Executive Board approved the proposed 2026 Budget. Motion passed unanimously.
25:32 - Recommends that the Executive Board rescind Recommendation 25-9 approved on February 21, 2025, creating a Constitution and By-Laws Taskforce to report to the 2025 Annual Meeting with a commitment to revisit this next year. Motion made by Shane Tanigawa, seconded by Daniel Tomita. Extensive discussion was held concerning the inability to gain traction on task force formation due to the board's heavy workload with other urgent matters. Strong recommendation made to revisit this issue with incoming board leadership. Motion passed unanimously.
Executive Director - Treasurer - Craig Webb
HPBC Annual Report for 2024-2025
Opening Reflection
As I reflect on this past year of ministry, I am filled with gratitude for God's faithfulness and the cooperative spirit of Hawaii Pacific Baptists. Across our islands and throughout the Pacific, we have seen encouraging signs of renewal and resilience in our churches, partnerships, and stewardship.
This year's theme, “All Authority in Christ” (Matthew 28:18), reminds us that we serve not in our own strength, but under the authority of the One who has called us. Every story of growth, every restored ministry, every new partnership bears witness to Christ's authority and His power among us.
Executive Summary
God's faithfulness marked this transformational year for Hawaii Pacific Baptists. Pu'u Kahea Conference Center tripled its bookings to 2,600 guests, exceeding revenue projections by $100,000 through God's provision of excellent management, generous donors, and volunteer servants. Our new Salesforce CRM system secured through a grant at zero cost now enables strategic church support from our staff team. We equipped leaders throughout the Pacific, celebrated the two-year Maui Fire Ministry that served 748 survivors, and formalized our Gateway Seminary partnership to establish Hawaii's first Southern Baptist, accredited theological campus in 2026. Through prudent stewardship, we maintained strong financial reserves while advancing kingdom priorities: supporting pastors, strengthening churches, and planting new congregations.
Ministry Impact
Supporting Pastors and Church Leaders
Our greatest resource is our people the pastors, leaders, and families serving faithfully across the Pacific. Each weekday morning, our staff gathers via Zoom for prayer and a brief “check-in,” lifting up 4–5 HPBC churches and their leaders. This year, Robert, Diana, and I strengthened our relationships with these pastors and their wives to gather specific prayer concerns, making our intercession more focused and meaningful. These daily times of prayer have become both a sacred rhythm and a valuable staff check-in, helping us communicate more effectively, collaborate on ministry needs, and stay united in serving our churches.
Leadership Development
Our 2025 Pastors Forums delivered practical ministry training through experts, including Brian Croft on ministry challenges and conflict resolution, Mark Hallock on church revitalization and congregational care, and specialized sessions on pastoral authority, retirement planning, AI tools, and discipleship. All sessions are available on our website. In February, we equipped nearly 70 deacons and wives from 10 churches through biblical leadership training at Nu'uanu Baptist Church. We also provided Transitional Pastor Training for eight pastors, equipping them to guide churches through pastoral transitions effectively.
The Church Health Conference (July 18–19) gathered 150 participants from over 40 churches across Hawaii, Guam, and American Samoa. Fully funded through registration fees and
NAMB grants, the conference provided biblical, practical help for church health and revitalization. Dr. Robert Miller's leadership as coordinator ensured its success. Through our partnership with Send Network’s Shane Critser, we onboarded four new church-planting families the Coppenbargers, Setes, Brennans, and Alsups bringing fresh energy to reaching unreached Hawaii communities. Diana Ventura and Shane also coordinated special support events for church-planter families.
International Ministry Connections
The Asia Baptist Network Conference in Yokohama (March) connected 147 leaders from 38 churches across four countries, maximizing impact through one strategic gathering rather than multiple trips.
In the fall, we deployed staff strategically: Dr. Miller served American Samoa with leadership training while I strengthened partnerships in Guam, providing pastoral search assistance and encouraging multiple congregations. A concurrent Japan visit allowed me to connect personally with the military church plant, Cross Church Yokosuka, as they are considered for HPBC affiliation.
Maui Fire Caring Ministry Completion
The unprecedented follow-up ministry concluded after nearly two years of faithful service. Led by Pete and Donna Beal, in partnership with HPBC and Maui County Baptist Association, the ministry contacted 748 Maui Fires survivors, distributed 200 Bibles, shared the Gospel at every visit, and directed 63% of disaster relief funds to direct survivor assistance. Multiple families now have ongoing relationships with local Baptist churches, demonstrating the critical value of systematic post-disaster follow-up.
Financial & Property Stewardship
Financial
Excellence
Our financial position remains strong with healthy reserves, carefully managed operations, and spending aligned with priorities: supporting pastors, strengthening churches, and planting new ones. Our Operations Committee and Executive Board ensure transparent reporting and conservative budgeting.
Property Transformation
Pu'u Kahea Conference Center experienced a remarkable turnaround, serving 2,600 guests through 36 reservations (triple last year's bookings) and exceeding projected income by over $100,000. This transformation is testimony to God's grace and provision. He accomplished this through the excellent management of Corey and Sarah Perkins, moved donors to give over $60,000 for renovations, and sent 11 volunteer couples to serve. Critical upgrades bathroom remodels, kitchen certification, new flooring, and landscaping have transformed the facility. With our kitchen now certified, we celebrated HBA’s return this fall as they resumed hosting camps at Pu'u Kahea. Looking ahead, we're launching the Harris Pastor Retreat facility in January 2026 for pastoral renewal.
Our Halawa property in Aiea hosts both Life Christian Church and, beginning this month, Valor Church Pearl Harbor (Sunday evenings), maximizing facility use while expanding military family outreach. Attorney Robert Park continues reviewing all property agreements and deeds to ensure responsible, sustainable management practices.
Strategic Partnerships
Gateway Seminary Hawaii Pacific Campus
Our partnership with Gateway Seminary launches in 2026, establishing the Gateway Seminary Hawaii Pacific Campus as the first SBC-accredited seminary campus in Hawaii. President Dr. Adam Groza asked the compelling question: 'Why don't we have a Gateway campus in Hawaii?' His vision for theological education in underserved regions meets our need to equip leaders spanning Hawaii, Guam, American Samoa, and Asia.
Through Gateway's proven partnership model, we'll offer four strategic tracks from certificates to doctoral studies with HPBC providing facilities and local expertise while Gateway supplies academic oversight, faculty, and administration. We're grateful to welcome President Groza, VP Kristen Ferguson, and Board Chairman Kevin Carrothers to this annual meeting as we formalize this historic partnership that positions Hawaii as a theological education hub for the Pacific.
Ministry Entity Partnerships
I serve as an ex officio member on both the Hawaii Baptist Academy and the Hawaii Baptist Foundation boards, maintaining vital connections with these key Hawaii Pacific Baptist entities.
Operational Advances
Salesforce CRM Launch
Our August 2025 Salesforce launch represents a transformational advancement. John Williams, Manager of Operations, secured this system through grants at no cost to HPBC tens of thousands in value. This comprehensive database now tracks church health, pastoral transitions, and ministry needs, helping us respond more quickly and strengthen cooperative relationships. The entire staff embraced the learning curve to implement this critical tool.
Staff and Organizational Development
Our team continues growing through Giant Worldwide leadership tools, developing shared language and teamwork. We have updated our Employee Handbook for the first time in 15 years, working with ProService and attorney Robert Park to ensure compliance and best practices.
Communications Excellence
Through Pacific Connector Magazine (six editions), social media, and new video projects, we tell the stories of God's work among Hawaii Pacific Baptists. Dawn Akutagawa, Hannah Denney, and I faithfully produce the magazine, while Brandon Pickett helped create videos for the Sue Nishikawa Offering, Annual Meeting, and Cooperative Program's 100th Anniversary.
Staff Appreciation
Two years ago, we made the strategic decision to reduce our full-time staff from eight positions to five, aligning expenses closer to revenue. By God’s grace, our ministry has continued to grow marked by teamwork, efficiency, and clear communication. Each staff member serves with excellence, stewardship, and a genuine love for the Lord. Their collaboration and ministry focus have expanded our impact far beyond what numbers suggest. I am deeply grateful for this faithful team and the joy of serving alongside them as we continue advancing God’s mission across Hawaii and the Pacific.
Board Leadership Appreciation
Under the gracious leadership of President Brian Frable, our Executive Board has modeled prayerful unity, wise decision-making, and faithful stewardship. Brian has led with integrity, clarity, and a heart for pastors and churches across the Pacific. To our officers, committee chairs, and board members thank you for your dedication and partnership. Your collaboration and careful governance have strengthened accountability and advanced our shared mission. Because of your faithfulness, Hawaii Pacific Baptists are positioned for even greater impact in the years ahead.
Looking Forward to 2026
As we look to 2026, our mission remains clear: to support pastors, strengthen churches, and plant new congregations. The year ahead will focus on leadership development and cooperative ministry.
We’ll gather for five Pastors Forums in the Spring on Expository Preaching, the Asia Baptist Network Leadership Conference in Okinawa, a Pastors Retreat with Mark Hallock, and an expanded Church Health Conference in the Fall featuring Brian Croft and Jimbo Stewart. We are also preparing for the launch of the Gateway Seminary Hawaii Pacific Campus, providing accredited theological education for leaders across our region. Together with our new Salesforce system and expanded church-planting network, we’re building sustainable systems to serve churches for generations. Thank you for the privilege of serving alongside you in this great work.
F inancial Report - Craig Webb & Monica Kang
HPBC Annual Report for 2024-2025
We are thankful for God's faithfulness and for the cooperative spirit of Hawaii Pacific Baptists. Your church’s gifts through the Cooperative Program and other missions offering makes this cooperative ministry possible. Thank you.
On page 12, you will find our proposed 2026 Undesignated Budget, which we presented to the Executive Board and which you, as a messenger, will vote on Friday afternoon. We have continued to cut expenses. While many of our expense line items have been reduced, bringing our expenses closer to our income, we continue to fund ministry, seminary scholarships, grants to churches, and equipping events through your gifts to the Sue Nishikawa Offering for Hawaii Pacific Missions and through support from our partnership with the North American Mission Board.
On pages 47 and 48, you will find a financial report for January through December of 2024. These are audited financials. I am thankful for Monica Kang’s work with our auditors, who delivered a clean audit to the board.
The most significant achievement of 2024 was our dramatic shift from a planned deficit to an actual surplus a transformation that reflects both careful stewardship and God's provision. Our 2024 budget anticipated a deficit of $258,618, which would have required drawing down our reserves. Instead, through prudent expense management and faithful giving, we ended the year with a positive change in net assets of $79,080. This $337,698 swing from projected deficit to actual surplus was accomplished through the following:
• We kept undesignated expenses at $907,658, coming in $260,960 (22.3%) below our planned budget of $1,168,618.
• This was mainly due to strategic delayed hiring that allowed us to manage personnel costs while maintaining ministry effectiveness, and through careful management of all expense categories throughout the year.
Our balance sheet reflects the fruits of this disciplined approach and demonstrates the healthy financial foundation we’re building for future ministry.
Director of Next Generation Ministries - Arjay Gruspe
HPBC Annual Report for 2024-2025
The NextGen population has been on the forefront of cultural moments and news that flood media platforms around the world. Because of that, and the desire to engage the generation with the gospel, collegiate work in the HPBC has been able to experience some exciting things. We have Baptist Collegiate Ministries serving primarily on Oahu (BCMOahu, International Ministries) and the Big Island (HiloBCM). We are also at the ready to help and encourage NextGen work among our churches and associations. In this last year as students on campuses began to be more open to spiritual things, and we’ve been able to see more activity and greater presence on our campuses.
BCM’s and International Baptist Ministries have had an impactful school year and continues to gain momentum this Fall! Here are some statistics from our ministry from the Fall and Spring semesters (2024-25) since our last Annual Meeting. These numbers come from our main ministries at BCMOahu led by Arjay Gruspe and a team of BCM staff, interns and student leaders, HiloBCM, led by Anita Bice and a team of excellent volunteer leaders, and International Ministries at UHManoa, led by a core team of BCM staff and interns as well as a faithful team of volunteers under the supervision of Arjay Gruspe.
• 178 Students Involved in Campus Ministry programs
• 870 Students Engaged in Campus Ministry programs
• 65 International Students Engaged
• 17 Students Graduated
• 40 Students involved in Evangelism
• 44 Students who made Professions of Faith
• 9 Non-students who made Professions of Faith
• 48 Students Discipled through small groups or one-on-one meetings
• 21 Students Leading Others through small groups or one-on-one meetings
• 38 Students who Served in Missions
• 31 Students participating in Leadership Training
• 9 Students pursuing Vocational Ministry post-graduation
How do things look across the nation in our Baptist collegiate world? The numbers tell a big story:
• 40,385 Students Involved in Campus Ministry programs
• 329,997 Students Engaged in Campus Ministry programs
• 13,194 International Students Engaged
• 2,431 Students Graduated
• 8,751 Students involved in Evangelism
• 2,616 Students who made Professions of Faith
• 1,908 Non-students who made Professions of Faith
• 14,357 Students Discipled through small groups or one-on-one meetings
• 3,503 Students Leading Others through small groups or one-on-one meetings
• 8,580 Students who Served in Missions
• 5,549 Students participating in Leadership Training
• 997 Students pursuing Vocational Ministry post-graduation
Baptist Collegiate Ministries serves the Continental US, Hawaii Pacific, and Canada on over 500 campus locations. The work is difficult, but as you can see, the work has been impactful to evangelizing and mobilizing the Next Generation of servants, leaders, church members, and missionaries to the world.
From Anita Bice, Director of HiloBCM: Over the past year, BCM has been actively engaged in outreach, discipleship, and partnership across the island. We have hosted monthly events and activities, participated in campus events, and organized all-day adventures.
Our students have faithfully shared the gospel with friends, family, and strangers, resulting in at least five salvations among students and four additional individuals coming to faith through BCM’s influence. To date, nine students have been baptized, with three others awaiting baptism.
Through our outreach efforts, more than 200 students have been introduced to Big Island Baptist Association (BIBA) churches, and over 50 of those students have attended Baptist church services this semester.
BCM has met weekly throughout the year for Converge , which includes dinner, worship, and Bible study. Local church members have generously provided meals for these gatherings. In addition to Converge, we host small groups, currently consisting of three active groups. The smallest group includes 12 students, while our Romans Bible Study has around 20 students. Over the past year, we’ve held both men’s and women’s Bible studies, books of the Bible studies, Apologetics, and several Christianity 101 classes. These groups are led by Next Generation Leaders - students who are mentored and equipped to lead. One BCM leader has also initiated a Bible study in her dorm through her church, Engage, includes BCM student
Our weekly BCM Worship Night, led by students, continues to be a vibrant part of our ministry. The BCM building is used daily for fellowship, prayer, counseling, personal Bible study, and even homework often accompanied by spontaneous worship whenever someone begins to sing or play an instrument.
During the summer, a team of five BCM young men traveled to Japan to reconnect with students who had previously attended the University of Hawai‘i at Hilo (UHH). They also partnered with IMB missionaries and student ministries during their trip.
BCM has actively partnered with BIBA churches throughout the year in a variety of outreach and fellowship events:
• November 2024: Thanksgiving with the Takasaki’s from Engage
• December: Hanai Angel Tree and Hanai Ministries Christmas celebration at
• Hamakua Baptist,
• January: Vulcan Ohana Week welcome events, hosted nightly by different churches
• March: Youth outreach (BCM outdoor game, worship and testimonies), with Hamakua Baptist and Engage youth groups
• April: Easter Celebration at BCM with Ohana Church and Waiakea Uka Bible Church
• May: Outreach event at Waiakea Uka Bible Church
• July: Puna Baptist Church Fun Day community outreach
• August: Welcome events with Engage Church and mission teams from Georgia, along with Hilo Korean Christian Church, Puna Baptist, Waiakea Uka Bible Church, Kinoole Baptist, Hilo Baptist, and Kaumana Drive Baptist
• October 2025: Combined Ohana Church and BCM worship night, men’s camping retreat & church service partnership with Kohala Baptist, and Keiki Fun Night with Kaumana Drive Baptist Church.
Throughout the year, numerous churches including Kohala Baptist and Cornerstone Christian Fellowship have provided meals and support. We look forward to continued partnerships, including an upcoming visit to Kona next month.
From International Baptist Ministries:
Aloha and thank you for your continued prayers and support for International Ministries! God is working in amazing ways, and the last year of ministry to international students and residents has been impactful.
We’ve been blessed to have a leadership team comprised of BCM staff, BCM interns, and local church volunteers that have stepped in to help lead the International Ministries in a vital time on the campuses of Oahu, primarily at the University of Hawaii-Manoa. With the faithful partnerships of our local churches like University Avenue Baptist Church, Aina Haina Baptist Church, Pawa’a Community Church and First Baptist Church of Pearl City, we’ve been able to reach international students from all over the globe. Students from countries like Columbia, Iran, India, Japan, Korea, England, Chile, Fiji, China, and Samoa have made IM their place to gather for events and friendships. Each week we offer connection through Wednesday free dinner, Global Café which is our weekly time to allow students practice their English as we discuss culture and Bible topics. One of our best partnership events happen each January and August. We call it the Big Giveaway! We were able to serve more than 100 students with free household and kitchen items on the first weekend before the start of each semester. For many international students, it is their first weekend in Hawaii. These have been hosted at University Avenue Baptist, who also host Tuesday morning English classes as an outreach to international community members, and this past year have continued providing English Coffee Hour and English Conversational Partners.
As a result of all this, we have had the joy of seeing two students from Japan profess their belief in Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior and get baptized in the local churches. And we have also helped students who have a faith in Jesus start discipleship relationships for the purpose of spiritual growth. Over the summer, mission trips with BCM and local church teams even had the opportunity to visit former IM students as they have returned to their home countries.
We are always looking for more partnerships like sponsoring food for our Wednesday Dinners and snacks for our Global Cafes on Thursday nights. We are also looking for conversational partners and help with activities for students. If your church would be interested, please contact Arjay Gruspe, NextGen Director for your HPBC. We are grateful for all the support and prayers for our ministry to International Students!
From Arjay Gruspe, Director of BCM - Oahu, BCM Staff and
Interns:
Our last year of ministry has been busy but so fruitful! With the hard work of our staff, interns and student leaders, each semester we had more than 300 student contacts with many of those resulting with a meeting with someone from the ministry for a gospel appointment, where they heard the gospel and had an opportunity to make a decision.
We continued to grow and develop in our mission to engage college students with the gospel, develop disciples of Jesus Christ, and mobilize servant leaders for the Church in order to reach the world over this past year. This was done through weekly large group worship gatherings, fun activities for students to meet other students, small group bible studies, and discipleship groups geared toward developing students in their faith and walk with Jesus Christ.
Our Leadership Development of Next Generation young adults continue to flourish. We have been able to see a pipeline of leadership start to come to life through ministry training, leadership training, and help with the overall running of the BCM ministry. The pipeline starts with an entry level called Student Leaders. They then are invited to apply for the next level we call BCM Interns. Finally, from that crew, we have invited some to move into the staff level or consider serving in their local church or go into the process of serving globally through one of our mission sending agencies, NAMB and IMB.
In the fall, our Interns were able to attend leadership training through the North American Mission Board (NAMB) Collegiate Ministry Training Conference at their headquarters in Atlanta. They received training and encouragement and were able to network with other NextGen leaders from across North America. In the Summer, the newest group of interns were able to go to Collegiate Week for training as well.
We were also able to get involved in local ministry opportunities. Staff led workshops and served at different events such as OBN Youth Camp, HBA Christian Emphasis Week and chapels, HBA grade level discipleship classes, Collegiate Week in Oklahoma, and Good Soil Discipleship School as we trained participants in evangelism and had them join our ministry in sharing the gospel on the UHManoa campus.
We continue to be involved in missions locally and globally. This last year, we were blessed to assist local churches like University Avenue Baptist Church, Waikiki Korean Church, Hāmama Community Church and Kalihi Baptist Church as well as help with the care of our Puu Kahea Conference Center. We hope to be available to do more in the future. We were also able to go on mission to places like Arizona to work with church plants and campus ministry partners in Flagstaff, and churches reaching the Navajo Nation. We also had the joy of sending a team of students to Japan to serve with our International Mission Board (IMB) Yokohama team in partnership with our former BCMer now serving as a career missionary.
We not only went, but we also hosted. Through Baptist partnerships, we hosted collegiate teams from Northern Arizona University, Carson-Newman University in Tennessee, Louisiana Tech BCM, and Louisiana State BCM, and the University of Oklahoma BCM. They helped us reach the campus as well as help local churches while they were here.
This past year, we experimented with weekly Free Lunch and Free Dinner. We discovered the students, especially international students preferred the dinner setting because they
felt they can spend more time at our building and more students from other campuses were able to attend. It is a combined effort between International Ministries and BCM.
Concluding remarks from Arjay Gruspe, Director of Next Generation Ministries/BCM: This past year, I had the privilege of also serving a leader in our Baptist Collegiate State Directors group comprised of leaders from our SBC State Conventions and Regions in Canada. It is a joy to serve on the national level in putting on events such as Beach Reach, Collegiate Summit, Emerging Regions Summit, and Collegiate Week, which BCMOahu was able send a group this summer! I also serve on the leadership team of our Emerging Regions State Directors. This serves ministries outside of the traditional Southern State BCM regions.
We are full of gratitude for all that God allowed us to experience this past year and are really excited for how things have started out for BCM and IBM work this Fall. We are on the campus weekly and have shared the gospel with hundreds of students already and have seen many come put their faith in Jesus and begin discipleship.
Thank you for all your support! We humbly ask for continued prayers and partnership support for NextGen work as we do our part to reach young people. We cannot do this work without our HPBC churches, so we are grateful for how you give and pray for the NextGen generations. If your church would like to discuss ways on how to get involved, please don’t hesitate to contact me!
Director of Regional Ministries - Robert
K. Miller
HPBC Annual Report for 2024-2025
This year’s primary focus was on our Church Health Conference. A considerable amount of time was devoted to preparing for this event. This event was the first of its kind for us, and it impacted many churches. This year, I also attended numerous trainings and traveled more than usual.
Pastoral Support
Pulpit supply : I preached 19 times and visited 8 different worship services throughout the year. The remaining Sundays, I worshiped at my home church.
Pastors’ Gatherings :
• Big Island Baptist Association Prayer Gathering - Monthly meetings, met on Zoom.
• Pastors’ Fellowship on Oahu – Monthly meetings, met at different churches with lunch, discussion on pastoral topics, and prayer time.
• Pastors’ Forums – Total of 8 this year, mainland speakers, met on Zoom.
Pastor Support : I continue to connect with pastors via Zoom, phone calls, text, and in person. Pastoral contacts are made on most days. Each contact is logged into our Salesforce database. This helps our staff to track who we contact.
Logos Software: Craig and I met online with Rob Fleshman to learn about the latest addition of Logos software, which includes A.I. features. Logos software, which is a comprehensive Bible software, is offered to new pastors.
Pastoral Mentoring : This year, I mentored three pastors. I met with each pastor individually. We meet monthly, review reading material, and discuss pastoral concerns. Other pastors call periodically to seek pastoral advice.
Church Support
Ordination and Installations:
• March 16 – Tim Elisaga ordained.
• April 27 – Joseph Kim ordained.
• May 20 – Jun Tubana’s ordination council.
• May 25 – James Leverett installed as Pastor of Lanakila Baptist
• June 1 – Hawai’i Christian Baptist Church’s Anniversary and ordination service.
• November 23 – Kinoole installation and 79th Anniversary
Pastor - less Churches : As of November 1, 9 Hawai’i Pacific Baptist Convention churches are without a pastor (5 on Oahu, 1 on the Neighbor Islands, and 3 from the Pacific). Earlier this year, we had a high of 15 pastor-less churches. Throughout the year, I met with church leaders and assisted them in the pastor search process.
New Pastors & Staff: This year, the following churches welcomed new pastors: Palisades, Pukalani, Calvary Guam, Lanakila, Songton Central, Kinoole, Makakilo, Guam Christian Life, Pyeongtaek International, Waiakea Uka. The following churches welcomed new associate pastors: Pearl City, University Avenue, Puna, Waialae, Mililani. We also welcome four new church plants.
Church Health Conference : On July 18-19, approximately 150 attendees representing over 40 churches attended this conference. Leaders from Guam, American Samoa, the neighbor islands, and Oahu were in attendance. Pastors and church leaders were blessed by Brian Croft and Mark Hallock’s teaching. Along with the main sessions, participants enjoyed the breakout groups, the question & answer time, and the group debriefing. We plan to hold this conference next year.
Olivet Leadership Retreat: I assisted Pastor Jamie McElrath in the church’s leadership retreat on Aug 22-23. Church staff, church leaders, and church members participated in this training. Six leadership principles in the book, LEAD, written by Paul Tripp were taught.
Associational Support
Associational Support :
• Oahu Baptist Network Leadership Team Meetings on Zoom – monthly
• Maui County Baptist Association Meetings – Bimonthly
• Big Island Baptist Association Spring Fellowship – May 3.
• Oahu Baptist Network Town Hall Meeting – May 21, Moderated meeting.
• Samoa Pacific Baptist Association Annual Meeting – Oct 26
• Maui County Baptist Association Annual Meeting – Nov 15.
Inter - island & Mainland Trips:
• Jan 28-29 – Dallas (Attended the Guidestone Pastoral Wellness Summit)
• Feb 16 – Maui (Preached at Lahaina BC and joined their business meeting)
• Mar 9 – Kauai (Visited Waimea BC service & hosted lunch for pastors & wives)
• Mar 16 – Hilo (Visited Hamakua BC & spoke at Elisaga’s ordination service)
• May 3 – Kona (Attended BIBA Spring Fellowship in Waimea)
• May 24 – Maui (Attended Gospel Living Conference at Kahului BC)
• June 8-11 – Dallas, TX (Attended SBC Annual Meeting)
• July 6 – Hilo (Visited Kaumana Drive service and preached at Engage)
• Aug 1 – Maui (Met with Maui Fire ministry team)
• Oct 23-27 – American Samoa (Led pastoral seminars and preached at Annual Meeting)
• Nov 15 – Maui (Attended MCBA Annual Meeting at Kahului BC)
• Nov 18-22 – Kona (Attended HPBC Annual Meeting)
• Nov 23 – Hilo (Preached at installation/church anniversary)
Transitional Pastor Training: A training for current and future transitional pastors was held on February 24-25 at the HPBC office. Henry Webb, Craig Webb, and I led this training. The following men were trained: Arjay Gruspe, Andrew Large, David Whitehead, Mike Procter, Daniel Tomita, Joe Boney, Mark Tagami, and Bill Messer.
Partnerships : I continue to receive calls from mainland churches seeking to assist Hawaii churches via a mission trip. Met with Tom Howe of Texas Baptists and two colleagues during their vision trip on July 3. They are seeking ways to assist churches in HPBC. Our partnership with the Tennessee convention will end this year.
Leadership Development
Guidestone Webinars : I attended four online webinars led by Guidestone on Social Security and retirement preparation. This training allows me to assist pastors nearing retirement. I also attended the Guidestone Pastoral Wellness Summit in Dallas, Jan 28-29.
State of the Church: Craig Webb and I attended a conference on February 6 led by Ed Stetzer on the State of the Church. This conference was open to all denominations. This event was held at the Hope Chapel church in Waipahu.
Gospel Living Conference : Kahului Baptist Church on Maui hosted this event on May 24. Jeff King of Immanuel Baptist Church in Louisville, Kentucky, led this conference. He serves as their Community Discipleship Pastor. Approximately 75 were in attendance. Both Craig and I attended this conference.
Church Revitalization Seminar : On August 1, Hal Haller led this seminar at Kalihi Baptist Church. Leaders from five churches received training. This workshop helped churches walk through a church revitalization process from prayer to implementing a vision.
5 Voices Workshop : Our HPBC staff, along with University Avenue Baptist Church, and First Baptist Church of Pearl City’s staff, gathered for this staff leadership training on July 27-28 at FBC Pearl City. Alan Keagle of Giant Worldwide led the training. This training helps leaders understand their leadership style.
Sales Force Training: HPBC staff uses Salesforce, a popular cloud-based software that helps manage customer relationships. Juliana of Salesforce led training on Aug 12-13. John Williams led the team in the implementation of this software.
OBI Leadership Development: Attended an Oahu Bible Institute event led by Dr. Ryan Rippee at Olivet Baptist Church on October 4th. The speaker addressed the importance of raising up leadership in the church.
Regional Ministries & Miscellaneous
Sexual Abuse Prevention: Updates have been made to our HPBC website regarding sexual misconduct reporting and response resources. As the contact person for HPBC, I continue to receive updates and attend training sessions led by the SBC Executive Committee Abuse and Prevention team. I received two calls this year for assistance.
Waianae Coast Christian Women’s Job Corp : Board members gathered online for quarterly meetings. The focus of the meetings was to pursue a new director. This ministry seeks to assist women in need of life skills and employment. Shirley Kinoshita serves as Board President. Diana Ventura and I serve as board members.
SBC Annual Meeting : Bev and I attended the SBC Annual Meeting in Dallas, Texas, June 811. I attended the Pastors’ Conference, the NAMB, and IMB meetings, as well as all the main sessions. Our staff also gathered Hawaii messengers on June 11 for an HPBC dinner in Dallas.
HPBC Affiliation: Craig and I met with four church leaders who are seeking HPBC affiliation. Before they officially begin the process, we take time to meet them, explain the process, and answer any questions. Some churches have passed the credentialing process and will be seated during our Annual Meeting, while other churches are just beginning the process.
Pacific Connector: I am a regular contributing writer for our convention magazine. My articles are typically about newly installed pastors and associational events.
New Worker’s Orientation: On November 20, Craig Webb and I led the HPBC Orientation for new pastors and staff. This orientation is designed to familiarize pastors with HPBC resources and SBC entities. This training was held at Kona Baptist Church. This year, we invited a total of 21 new pastors/staff.
Pastor and Wife Banquet: Pastors and their wives joined together at the Outrigger Kona Resort on November 19 for our annual banquet. The speaker was Mark Clifton of the North American Mission Board. This banquet was designed to encourage pastors and wives. The North American Mission Board and Hawai’i Pacific Baptist Convention sponsored this event.
P u’u Kahea Camp Caretaker –
HPBC Annual Report for 2024-2025
Corey Perkins
This past year, as camp caretaker, has been another busy one filled with lots of repairs, improvements, and a calendar filled with groups and volunteers. Sarah Perkins, my wife, has continued to work as the camp administrative assistant. We have been fully opened and operational this year with more groups renting than we anticipated at the beginning of the year. We’ve also been blessed with a steady stream of volunteers since February.
We couldn’t have done all the work we accomplished this year without the prayers and financial support of our HPBC churches and Executive Board. Thank you to all who have prayed, volunteered, and financially supported us here at Pu’u Kahea Conference Center. We look forward to serving more of you as a place where you can hold your camps and retreats this coming year!
Improvement Highlights:
Since having our open house back in February, we have been blessed by the financial donations from many of our churches and other organizations. These financial donations have been put towards many of the following improvements.
We fixed, cleaned, and bought what was needed to get our volunteer housing ready for our amazing volunteers (Makai and one side of Mauka).
We bought a new larger zero turn mower to be able to mow the 11 acres of property more efficiently. Our other two mowers have continued to have lots of issues, with one being rendered unrepairable. We also bought new small landscaping equipment (hedger, weed walker, blower, etc.).
We made repairs to our two camp vehicles (van and truck) and three golf carts.
We resurfaced the floors, painted, and laid new baseboards in K-Cottage 1, 2 and 3. This included removing the old peel and stick tile and glue in Cottages 2 & 3. All three floors were coated with a hard acrylic coating. We also put new peel and stick tile down in Peterson Hale Kitchen, Hikina 2, and Makai 1 and 2.
We’ve repainted all the exterior floors (ex. tent and porches). And are in the process of power washing and repainting the green trim on all the buildings. We’ve also repainted many interior walls as well in an effort to streamline our paint colors to make purchasing paint more cost effective.
The K-Cottage 3 bathrooms have been renovated by our great contractor (JC Constructors). Through donations from our churches, we were able to gut the bathrooms to concrete, retile, put in a new vanity and sinks, and retile the showers.
The gate at the front entrance of our property has had continued issues for almost two years. In September of this year, it stopped working and was deemed unrepairable. We are currently in the process of replacing the double swing gate with a new single panel sliding gate. We hope to have this finished by mid-December.
In the Plantation Hale Kitchen, we had to repair the gas line, repair the refrigerator, replace the ice machine, and replace the mini split a/c unit. We also added a chemical system for the sink, dish washer, and mop sink through Bargreen Ellingson. With these improvements we were able to get the kitchen recertified and pass health inspection therefore allowing groups to use the kitchen for cooking if someone has a food handlers license.
The chain link fence that borders the drainage canal on the property had two places that had fallen over. This posed an issue for both the safety and security of our guests. With the help of our City Councilwoman, the county came and repaired the two sections that had fallen which was an amazing praise!
We started and updated our website: www.pkcc.org again. Please take a look to see updated information and pictures. There is also information at our table in the exhibit area.
As always, there’s a never-ending list of repairs and things to replace. This year we replaced multiple broken a/c units, plumbing lines, water heaters, toilets, faucets, shower heads, shower curtain rods, shower curtains, smoke detectors, flooring, lights, beds, bed frames, beddings, towels, window curtains, and more.
Harris Pastor Retreat:
We are excited to announce a new purpose for Harris duplex. Starting in January, this building will be available for pastors and their families to come relax and recharge. Each side of the duplex can sleep 4 people with a bedroom, full kitchen, dining area, and living area. For more information about how to reserve and special pricing available for our HPBC pastors please reach out to our email (office@pkcc.org) or grab a card from our table in the exhibit area.
Guest Report:
We have been fully open and operational this year. By the end of this year, we will have had 36 reservations ranging from large church retreats and youth camps to small family or personal retreats with an estimated total of about 2,600 guests. This is almost three times the number of groups from last year. About 15 of those reservations were from our HPBC churches and/or partnership organizations and 21 were from other church organizations. With this amount of reservations, we have exceeded our projected income by over $100,000.
Volunteers and Partnerships:
With only one full time staff and one part time staff it would have been hard to accomplish all that we did this year without our wonderful volunteers.
There have been many groups and individuals that have volunteered here this year. Volunteers from Pineywood Camp (Texas), Aloha Nani, BCM Oahu, Challenge AU(Arizona), LSU BCM (Louisiana), Hawaii Kai Church, University Avenue Baptist Church, Central Baptist Church, Aina Haina Baptist Church, Carson Newman University BCM (Tennessee), Oklahoma University BCM (Oklahoma), FBC Covington (Tennessee), Olivet Baptist Church, Oak Grove Baptist Church (Arkansas), and our parents have volunteered their time to help us from cleaning to landscaping their help has been a blessing to us!
Since starting up our volunteer partnership with the Baptist State Convention of North Carolina through Baptist on a Mission, we have had 11 couples from North Carolina,
Alabama, and Tennessee volunteer with us for 1 -3 months since February. They have helped clean, do laundry, landscaping, painting, building repairs, and more! They have been so vital in keeping Pu’u Kahea going. We are so grateful for their willingness to come out and help us in whatever we needed.
We had an Open House in February for members of our churches to explore the history of Pu’u Kahea, learn about the various needs and volunteer opportunities available, and discover how they can use the facilities for retreats and gatherings. Through that open house and the effort of our Executive Director we received over $60,000 in donations for new equipment, K-Cottage bathroom renovations, paint, and other improvements needed. We have also continued to receive monthly financial donations from First Baptist Church Artesia (New Mexico). We are so thankful for these churches, individuals, and foundations that have donated to Pu’u Kahea.
Mahalo again for all of your prayers, time, and donations. We would love to serve more of you here at Pu’u Kahea next year, mahalo!
Director of Women 's Ministry - Diana Ventura
HPBC Annual Report for 2024-2025
I am thankful for being part of the Hawaii Pacific Baptist Convention. Thank you to the board and staff for all you do to support our convention. The churches are stronger and unified because of your attention, leadership, and prayers.
I appreciate this opportunity and pray for the Lord to provide His wisdom, discernment, and insight as I continue to grow and serve as the Women’s Ministry Director.
The purpose of women’s ministry is to encourage, empower, and equip women as they step into the ministry the Lord has called them to. The main areas of focus are: Wives in Ministry, WMU, and Women in Leadership. However, this year, there were additional areas to highlight as we implemented Salesforce, focused on staff development, and worked closely with our church planters.
Serving the women of our convention is an ongoing ministry, as family needs and opportunities change. Women desire to grow in Biblical literacy while serving in their local churches. Over the past year, I have connected with women who desire to grow in their leadership, offering encouragement, support, resources, and prayer.
The heartbeat of my ministry is to connect with women and together grow in loving Jesus and diving into God’s word.
This report highlights the ministry within my respective areas for 2025. Throughout the year, there were several touchpoints of interaction and connection with HPBC women. This always leads to a time of checking in and hearing from each individual.
Wives in Ministry (WIM)
Focusing on praying and supporting our pastors and their wives is a priority for our convention. We desire to have healthy leadership, and it begins with our pastoral families. The HPBC staff prays for our churches on a daily basis, and it opens up the opportunity to know how a particular church is doing, but also how the pastor, wife, and their family are doing. This allows us to check in and connect on a deeper level.
The monthly WIM Zoom Connection for wives in ministry is a monthly one-hour time that gathers pastors’ wives. This is a time of sharing and catching up on family and ministry life. It provides the opportunity to connect until we see each other in-person again. This connection has been fruitful. It has developed friendships and opened up times when we can pray for a specific need.
WIM Check-in happens throughout the year. Our pastor's wives are contacted via text or email to encourage and let them know they are thought of and prayed for.
A weekly Bible study group meets to study God’s word and create a strong sense of support and friendship.
The Pastor/Wife Appreciation Dinner is an annual event that takes place on the Wednesday before the annual meeting. The HPBC staff plans and invites pastors and wives to attend a special dinner. This is a way to honor and thank them for the way they serve their families and churches., I am part of the planning team along with other staff team members. This is always a great way to bring everyone together!
Women’s Missionary Union (WMU) Missions Celebration
The WMU Missions Celebration took place on Saturday, April 26, 2025, at the First Southern Baptist Church Pearl Harbor. Over 150 attended the celebration, representing over 30 churches, worship was led by a youth worship team from various churches, Pastor Bong led the Youth Project band that is made up of children and youth in special songs, we heard testimonies from church planter spouses, a panel of youth sharing how they share Jesus to their friends, and special speakers from the Utah Partnership for Christ who minister to Mormons in Utah, and special speaker was Denise Clymer, New Mexico WMU President who serves the Native American tribes.
This celebration was special because it was multi-generational and there was a sense of unity among the attendees, both men and women. The event concluded with a catered lunch, providing an opportunity for fellowship and sharing a meal together.
The 2026 WMU Missions Celebration will be hosted by Olivet Baptist on Saturday, April 18, 2026.
Women in Leadership
Throughout the week, I meet with women via a phone call, Zoom meeting, or in person who are in leadership and looking to be discipled and mentored. Women who call out for prayer or desire to study God’s Word together. This has given me a way to support and speak into their lives as they go and do the same for others.
In November, during the HPBC annual meeting, over 50 women will come together for the Women’s Leadership Breakfast. This event allows for fellowship, connection, and encouragement. The goal is to build a network of women leaders who can support one another and be reminded that leadership begins with leading oneself.
Asia Baptist Network
In March, I traveled to Japan to attend the Asia Baptist Network meeting in Yokohama. Barbara Webb and I had the opportunity to speak to the women during the women’s conference. Barbara guided the women through a scriptural journaling activity. It was very well received. I shared about my journey with Jesus and how women’s ministry can benefit and support them.
During my visit, I connected with many women, some of whom I had only met via email or Zoom, to hear how they are serving and leading within their respective ministries. I was able to provide resources and make connections to keep in touch and continue to support them.
I was also able to spend time with Natalie Nation. To learn more about missions in Japan, how she is reaching young Japanese adults, and to understand the culture better.
NAMB Planter Family Care Support
This year, I worked and coordinated with Shane Critser, Send Network Director-Coastal West, as the church planter care advocate. We planned and hosted a planter spouse luncheon in April and a family care event in July. This provided additional support to our planters and their families as they plant churches throughout Hawaii, the Pacific, and Asia.
It not only connects me with the wives on a personal level, but they are able to meet and connect with each other during a similar season of ministry.
Through the partnership between NAMB and HPBC, we were able to coordinate and support our planters and their families to attend the annual meeting. Shane will host a luncheon for the planters during the annual meeting as an additional way to encourage and build up the planters.
Southern Baptist Convention (SBC) Dallas
In June, I attended the SBC in Dallas along with two other leaders and many from our HPBC churches. During the convention, I attended state leader events, hosted the HPBC women at the minister’s wives luncheon, attended the annual WMU missions celebration, and attended leadership conferences.
In addition, for the past few years, we have invited all those attending the convention from HPBC to a special group dinner.
The HPBC Church Health Conference
In July, HPBC hosted the church health conference. This brought together churches and church leaders. Giving our team the opportunity to check in with pastors’ wives and women serving our churches in various capacities. Again, another face-to-face time to be together to hear how ministry is going and give us a sense of how to support. Reminding women that they play a critical role in the health of the church’s health and leadership.
Salesforce
This year, the convention implemented a system to centralize information. The system, Salesforce, provides our team with an efficient and centralized way to maintain updated church information. My role was focused on women’s ministry by providing insight into how I utilize information, compile lists that are helpful to my area of responsibility, and how to streamline the process to be more productive. From implementation to execution, we spent time compiling information and training how to utilize Salesforce and put it into action.
Staff Development
Staff development has been a focus for this year. Through Giant 5-Voices, we honed in on our personal style of leadership and what our strong voice is. How it affects how we engage, work with others, and lead. It has been instrumental in learning about myself and how to better complement those around me. This allows our staff to be stronger and continue to work closely together to strengthen our convention and churches.
A two-day training was held at Pearl City Baptist, where three staff teams gathered to train together. Again, this was another moment to meet new ladies serving in a part-time or fulltime role in their churches and reconnect with others.
Personal Growth
My personal growth and development are important to me. I can only lead and pour out as much as I have been led and poured into. I focus on my own time with the Lord, studying His word, and seeking to be a better follower of Jesus. In turn, I grow as a leader.
In September, I attended the “In the Word” and YOU Lead women’s conference with a few other HPBC women, and in November, I attended the Lifeway Leadership forum. These conferences provide a connection with our SBC partners and networking with other state leaders. It gives me the opportunity to pass on what I learn.
My prayer is that I would be faithful with where God has placed me and what He has entrusted me with. The message I hope to share with women is that God is calling all of us into a relationship with Him and to serve those around us.
Thank you, Hawaii Pacific Baptists, for walking alongside me on this journey!
Directors of Hawaii Pacific Baptist Disaster Relief - John and Gay Williams
HPBC Annual Report for 2024-2025
It is our privilege to serve our Lord and the churches of the HPBC through the ministry of Disaster Relief. We thank God for the opportunities He has given us to serve through the HPBC. It has been a productive year for Southern Baptist Disaster Relief worldwide.
Personal Update
Gay and John spent April through June on the mainland caring for Gay’s father after a series of strokes. Thank you for your prayers and support during this challenging time, as they help Gay’s father transition from fully independent living to an assisted living facility. Please continue praying for Gay as she faces the difficult decisions that will need to be made as her father’s condition worsens.
Alaska Training
Alaska Disaster Relief invited us to train their volunteers in Chaplaincy and Disaster Incident Management. About 30 people participated in the three-day training event in Wasilla, Alaska. These partnerships and cooperation strengthen our ability to respond to major disasters across the Pacific.
WMU January Board Meeting
Gay was honored to speak as the NAMB missionary at the WMU January board meeting in Birmingham, Alabama. She felt blessed to lead two breakout sessions: one on self-care in ministry and the other on updates from HPBC and Maui ministries.
SBC and SBDR Leadership Meeting
June featured the annual SBC gathering in Dallas, TX. It was a blessing to attend the WMU Foundation’s 30th anniversary celebration dinner, where Gay’s childhood and teenage WMU director from Illinois, Evelyn Tully, received the Rosalie Hunt Devoted Patron Award. We were honored to speak about our experiences with Missionary Kids (Third Culture Kids) at the WMU annual event.
After the SBC, we attended an International Partnership Meeting with several State Convention DR directors and International IMB Staff. The meeting centered on our readiness to train and deploy Disaster Relief teams internationally. As HPBC DR, we have agreed to collaborate with SEND Relief to train and respond to crises in Thailand, Cambodia, Myanmar, Vietnam, and Laos.
The SBC DR roundtable took place at the Southern Baptist of Texas Convention office in Grapevine, TX. This twice-yearly gathering brings together Disaster Relief directors from across the SBC. Discussions included a new agreement between the Southern Baptist DR and the Salvation Army to collaborate on feeding and chaplaincy services.
In February of this year, John was asked to serve on a committee to develop a new national organizational structure for Southern Baptist Disaster Relief. The committee met several times each month and presented their recommendations and documentation at the June roundtable meeting. John will continue in this role as SBDR works toward appointing and hiring a national director.
Indiana Missions Conference
We were invited to speak at the Indiana WMU Mission conference about HPBC Disaster Relief work after the Maui Fires. We also had the privilege of speaking at Vernon Baptist Church during their morning worship service.
Deployments
A team of eight volunteers from HPBC deployed for two weeks to Swannanoa, NC, to serve the community after Hurricane Helene caused multiple flash floods. The team represented five churches from two islands. Most of the work involved shoveling mud out of homes and removing wet items so the homeowners could prepare to move back in. Some team members were assigned to the incident command of the operation. Three individuals were sent to the California wildfires. Their work included Incident Command and Personal Property Recovery. These deployments offer a great opportunity to share the love of Christ in a very practical way.
Community Engagement
Our partnership with the county and state VOADs (Volunteers Active in Disaster) remains strong. Gay is now the vice chair of the Honolulu County VOAD, serves as a VOAD liaison to the Office of Emergency Management, and is a member of the Emotional Spiritual Care subcommittee of the State VOAD. John leads the recovery and cleanup workgroup for the State VOAD. Our relationship with VOAD allows us to plan and prepare for future crisis events in Hawaii.
Gay traveled to Maui for a meeting with the Maui Fire Cares Ministry. It was a true blessing to hear about their ministry work. The efforts begun by HPBC DR have continued for two years after the fires. MFC volunteers have reached out and contacted most people affected by the fire. (See Dr. Webb’s report for more)
Training
Two Disaster Relief training sessions were held this year. At Olivet Baptist Church and Waialae Baptist Church, over 60 volunteers trained and/or renewed their credentials. A new focus of disaster relief training is personal readiness and the “Ready Church” model, which encourages churches to prepare for community response. Please contact us if your church is interested in hosting a training.
We pray that Hawaii Pacific Baptist Disaster Relief continues to shine the light of Christ during difficult times. Thank you for your overwhelming support and vision for loving our neighbors, as well as your prayers and giving.
Operation s Manager - John Williams
HPBC Annual Report for 2024-2025
This report highlights key projects, ongoing maintenance efforts, and major technological upgrades across HPBC properties. The year focused extensively on facility repairs, IT infrastructure improvements, and the deployment of a new central database to support ministry and staff operations.
Major Projects and Accomplishments
Several large-scale projects extended over multiple quarters, including ongoing property repairs such as essential maintenance at the Nehoa House, Ke’eaumoku House, International Building, and the Vancouver offices. These repairs included installing new air conditioners, a hot water heater, and addressing overdue maintenance issues. The dorm required the complete rebuilding of a hazardous emergency fire escape, along with fixing several water leaks and other repairs.
IT Infrastructure Improvements
Work with technical consultants continued throughout 2025 to decrease the volume and cost of internet contracts across all HPBC properties, aiming to implement a more secure, reliable, and cost-effective infrastructure. Phase one of the network migration from Spectrum to Hawaiian Telcom is nearing completion. This will lower costs, simplify billing, and enhance overall reliability. Additional network upgrades and modernization are planned for the upcoming year.
Database and Systems Rollout
Implementing Salesforce as HPBC’s CRM (Customer Relationship Management) database was a key project for the year. With support from our consulting partner, HPBC secured a grant, planned and carried out the data migration, and provided in-person staff training. The new system, now operational, functions as a centralized resource for HPBC to better understand our churches, ministries, and business partners. This was a significant effort, involving data collection, deduplication, standardization, and ongoing data entry to maintain the long-term value of the data. Phase two of this project will begin soon, focusing on further automating data entry and improving our event registration process.
Hawaii Baptist Academy
Hawaii Baptist Academy
President’s Message 2024-2025 School Year
Aloha HBA Friends and Family,
This past year at Hawai’i Baptist Academy has been one of celebration and reflection. As we marked our 75th anniversary, we were reminded of God’s steadfast faithfulness through generations of students, teachers, and families. His hand has guided HBA from humble beginnings to the vibrant ministry it is today. From our inaugural Founders’ Day to the 75th Anniversary Concert and culminating with our largest graduating class of 124 seniors, each milestone of 2024-25 reflected His continued work in shaping hearts and minds for His purpose.
Our students, faculty, and staff continued to shine for His glory across academics and the arts.
• The HBA Legal Eagles captured the 2025 Hawai‘i High School Mock Trial State Championship, demonstrating exceptional teamwork and critical thinking.
• Our artists earned 34 Scholastic Art Awards, and our math scholars celebrated HBA’s ninth Division-A Math Bowl title.
• Three students from the Class of 2027 placed first in the Japan Wizards Competition, earning a cultural and educational trip to Japan.
• The Eagle Eye journalism team earned first place in Overall Photography, Social Media, and multiple writing and photo categories at the Hawai‘i High School Journalism Awards, showcasing creativity and passion for storytelling.
Our student-athletes also brought glory to God through perseverance and teamwork.
• The Girls Varsity Volleyball and Boys Varsity Cross Country teams captured Division II State Championships.
• The Girls Varsity Cross Country team won the overall ILH Championship and finished as the Division II State Runner-Up.
• The Boys Varsity Bowling team claimed the ILH Division II title and finished third at the State Championships.
• HBA sophomore Kamalei Canionero placed second at the State Air Riflery Championship.
Beyond competition, their unity and discipline modeled the values we strive to instill in every Eagle.
We also celebrate the life-changing impact of Christian Ministries on our students. The Gospel was proclaimed at camps for grades 6-12, Christian Emphasis Week, chapel services, and various campus outreach events. Through these experiences, students encountered the life-transforming love of Jesus Christ in powerful ways.
• 44 elementary students became Christ followers during Christian Emphasis Week’s Decision Day.
• 21 middle school students made first-time decisions for Christ at camp.
• 15 high school students made decisions for Christ during their camp experience.
We praise God for moving powerfully in the hearts of our young people and for allowing HBA to continue fulfilling its mission of leading students to know Christ and make Him known.
In spring 2025, HBA extended its reach globally as thirteen students traveled to South Korea on our first international mission trip, sharing the love of Christ and building lasting relationships across cultures.
As we look to the future, I am reminded of Psalm 118:23 (NIV): “The Lord has done this, and it is marvelous in our eyes.”
Every accomplishment, whether in the classroom, on the courts, or in the community, is a reflection of God’s marvelous work through our students, teachers, and families. We give Him all the glory for 75 years of faith, innovation, and leadership, and for the bright future He continues to unfold for Hawaiʻi Baptist Academy.
Thank you for your continued prayers, generosity, and partnership in advancing our mission: Christ for Every Nation.
With gratitude, Ron Shiira '75 President, Hawaiʻi Baptist Academy
H awaii B aptist Foundation
Annual Report to the HPBC ServingChristianStewards
Matt Sanders, President
This year has been marked by continued activity and progress in the three major purposes of the foundation.
• Funds management – Investing funds for long-term growth
• Planned giving –Helping Hawaii Baptists use gift planning to support kingdom ministries
• Ministry support – Providing assistance to ministries in the Hawaii Pacific region
Our board, elected by the HPBC, oversees our investment strategy. 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.
Funds Management Report for Oct. 1, 2024-Sept. 30, 2025
New accounts opened - 4 Return on 60% equity/40% fixed income 16.83% (.77% below benchmark)
Total earnings
Additions
Withdrawals
Balance of all funds Sept. 30, 2024
Balance of all funds Sept. 30, 2025
$2.4 million
$1.6 million
$4.1 million
$35.5 million
$33.6 million
This year, the foundation created a short-term fund for ministries that will need funds in the near term (within 2 years) but still want to earn money-market type returns.
Planned Giving
We continue to provide planned giving education for churches. The foundation, HBA, and HPBC continue to offer a service to help people set up wills at no charge via FreeWill.
Ministry Support
Through the KOKUA fund and the foundation’s ministry support fund, five college scholarships were awarded to children of HPBC pastors.
In addition to helping provide support for KOKUA scholarships, the foundation made grants to:
• International Students Ministries
• Biblical Counseling Center of Maui
• Hawaii Baptist Academy capital campaign
• Harvest Family Life Ministries
• Pu‘u Kahea Conference Center renovations
• Christopher Evans ministry to seafarers on Majuro
Constitution & Bylaws of the Hawaii Pacific Baptist Convention Constitution of the Hawaii Pacific Baptist Convention (Amended 11/9/19)
I. NAME
The name of this body shall be the Hawaii Pacific Baptist Convention.
II. PURPOSE
1. The purpose of this Convention shall be to provide organization through which Baptist churches in Hawaii and the Pacific areas can cooperate in their efforts to help bring people into a right personal relationship with God through faith in Jesus Christ and to help forward Christ’s whole program of preaching, teaching, healing, and ministering throughout the world.
2. While independent and sovereign in its own sphere, the Convention shall not claim nor attempt to exercise authority over any church.
3. This Convention shall cooperate in promoting such objective fostered by Baptists through the Southern Baptist Convention as it deems proper. This Convention recognizes the Baptist World Alliance as a fellowship of Baptist communities around the world.
III. STATEMENT OF FAITH
The Convention shall be founded on a fellowship based on the Holy Bible, Old and New Testaments. Specific doctrinal distinctives are identified in any historic or current “Baptist Faith and Message” adopted by the Southern Baptist Convention.
IV. MEMBERSHIP
The Convention shall consist of messengers who are members of cooperating, contributing Baptist churches.
The following criteria shall define cooperating and contributing:
a. Theological: The church shall have specified within its adopted Statement of Faith and Practice and/or governing documents that the basis for its theology, faith, practice and polity is the Bible and the Statement of Faith as listed in Article III or other declarations of faith which parallel our historic Baptist faith and distinctives will serve as the theological framework.
b. Declaration: The church shall have voted to cooperate and affiliate with the Hawaii Pacific Baptist Convention. This action shall be communicated in a written letter to the Executive Director-Treasurer of the Hawaii Pacific Baptist Convention.
c. Financial: The church shall have made financial contributions through the Cooperative Program during the past twelve months.
d. Statistical: The church shall provide an annual statistical report, which demonstrates its cooperation and partnership with other churches affiliated with the Hawaii Pacific Baptist Convention.
V.
MEETINGS
The Convention shall have one annual meeting at such time and place as it may determine. A called meeting of the Convention may be convened by the president after consultation with the general officers, or by the general officers upon the request of three or more members of the Executive Board.
VI. OFFICERS
The officers of the Convention shall be the president, the first vice president, the second vice president, the recording secretary, and the executive director-treasurer.
VII. COMMITTEES OF THE CONVENTION
1. The standing committees of the Convention shall be the Committee on Committees and Board Nominations, the Committee on Convention Arrangements and Order of Business, the Committee on Credentials and Resolutions, and the Historical Committee.
2. Membership on Convention standing or special committees, except the Committee on Committees and Board Nominations, shall be elected by the Convention. Three members of the Committee on Committees and Board Nominations shall be appointed annually, one by the president, one by the first vice president, and one by the second vice president.
VIII. EXECUTIVE BOARD
1. The Executive Board shall serve as the Convention ad interim and may act for the Convention on all matters not reserved for action solely by the Convention or where no Convention committee has specific power to act, and the Executive Board shall act as the Convention’s principal advisory group on the total program, unless some other Convention committee is so named. The Executive Board shall serve as trustees of the corporation and shall have power to purchase, hold, sell, exchange, mortgage, lease or otherwise dispose of all such real and personal property acquired by the corporation for its own use or for individual churches, missions, institutions to execute and deliver all deeds, mortgages, leases, bills of sale, and other documents necessary or advisable in dealing with said real and personal property. This Executive Board shall not have the power to commit the Convention to any major new program or significant change of the scope of current programs but shall recommend such action to the Convention.
2. The Executive Board shall be composed of twenty-one members and the Convention president, first vice president and second vice president.
3. The Executive Board members shall be nominated by the Committee on Committees and Board Nominations and elected by the Convention.
IX. AMENDMENTS
This constitution except Article III may be amended at any annual meeting provided the proposed amendment be circulated one month prior to the annual meeting. The amendment will become effective by a majority vote at any annual meeting. Article III may be amended by three-fourth majority vote at any annual meeting provided that the proposed amendments were presented to the Convention at the annual meeting of the preceding year.
I. PROCEDURE
1. The messengers shall be elected in the churches on the following basis:
a. Ten voting messengers from each church;
b. One additional voting messenger for each one hundred members or fractional part thereof beyond the first one hundred members, not to exceed a total of twenty.
2. The Committee on Credentials and Resolutions will, upon receipt of a messenger card duly signed by a cooperating church, certify messengers to the annual meeting of the Convention.
3. Only certified messengers may vote on issues before the Convention. Visitors may be accorded the courtesy of speaking on issues under consideration.
4. “Robert’s Rules of Order Revised” shall be recognized as the standard authority to guide the Convention on questions of parliamentary procedure.
5. Ten percent of the messengers enrolled shall constitute a quorum for transaction of business by the Convention. A majority of members shall constitute a quorum for transaction of business by Convention committees.
6. All proposed resolutions coming before the Convention shall be forwarded to the Committee on Credentials and Resolutions for consideration.
7. Any new major program calling for expenditure of money shall be approved in two successive annual meetings of the Convention.
II. ELECTION OF OFFICERS AND THEIR DUTIES
1. The following officers shall be nominated from the floor and elected by the Convention in the listed order: president, first vice president, second vice president, and recording secretary.
2. Each officer of the Convention shall be elected annually and by a majority of all votes cast. Each officer elected shall be a member of a cooperating church of the Convention.
3. These officers with the exception of the executive director-treasurer shall be nominated from the floor and elected annually in the order listed above.
4. Officers shall serve for one year and hold office until their successors are elected and qualified. Terms of office shall commence at the final adjournment of the annual meeting at which they are elected.
5. The executive director-treasurer shall be recruited and elected by the Executive Board.
6. Duties:
a. The president shall preside over the annual sessions of the Convention. He shall be chairman of the Executive Board and will preside over its meetings. He shall serve as ex-officio member of all committees of the Convention without vote and of the Executive Board of the Convention with vote. He shall be eligible for re-election and shall not serve more than two successive terms.
b. The first vice president shall assist the president in presiding over the annual sessions of the Convention and the meetings of the Executive Board. He shall assume the responsibilities of the president in his absence. He shall have a vote only in the Executive Board meeting or when representing the president at an Executive Board committee meeting.
c. The second vice president shall assist the president in presiding over the annual sessions of the Convention and the meetings of the Executive Board.
In the absence of both the president and the first vice president, he shall assume the responsibilities of the president. He shall have a vote only in the Executive Board meeting or when representing the president at an Executive Board committee meeting.
d. The recording secretary shall be charged with keeping the minutes of the annual meeting of the Convention and the minutes of the Executive Board. He shall, with close cooperation and assistance from the executive directortreasurer, edit, print, and distribute the annual report of the Convention. He shall make available for preservation in the Convention offices all records and documentary materials of the Convention and the Executive Board.
e. The executive director-treasurer is the executive officer and director of all work and programs of the Convention and the Executive Board, unless otherwise specified. He shall be a member ex-officio of all Convention committees and of the Executive Board without the privilege of vote. He shall be responsible for initiating, formulating, and recommending objectives, goals and programs to the Executive Board. He shall report regularly to the Executive Board and to the Convention. All checks shall be signed by the executive director-treasurer, or in his absence by the president or by the first vice president of the Convention.
7. Vacancies:
a. In the event that the president, the first vice president, and the second vice president should be unable to serve, the recording secretary shall call the Executive Board into session to elect a president from among its membership.
b. In the event of vacancy in the office of the director-treasurer:
(1) The Executive Board in session shall elect a committee composed of seven members: the member receiving the most votes shall be designated as chairman.
(2) During the interim period, the president shall serve as executive director-treasurer until otherwise designated by the Executive Board.
III. POLICIES, COMPOSITION AND DUTIES OF CONVENTION COMMITTEES
1. The convention shall clearly establish the major areas of action it reserves unto itself. The Convention as a body in session shall be responsible for:
a. Determination of Convention objectives and the programs to be sponsored to achieve these objectives.
b. Determination of the overall plan of organization of the Convention and its work.
c. Delegation of responsibility to Convention committees and the Executive Board for the conduct of specific programs.
d. Determination of broad policies applicable to the operation of all programs.
e. Determination of the broad financial support to be given the various programs of the Convention, including the allocation of undesignated funds to Executive Board programs.
f. Nomination and election of Convention officers, committee members and the membership of the Executive Board.
g. Making the final appraisal of the contributions to the total program of any agency or program on the Convention.
h. Approving the establishment of new agencies, subsidiary corporations, institutions, and any major extensions of current agencies, institutions and programs.
2. Committees of the Convention:
a. The Committee on Committees and Board Nominations
The Committee on Committees and Board Nominations shall consist of nine members holding three-year terms with three new members appointed annually, one by the president, one by the first vice president and one by the second vice president. This committee, including ministers, laymen and laywomen, shall nominate and the Convention shall elect all members of the other standing committees and of the Executive Board. The Committee shall elect its own chairman and secretary. The committee slate of nominees shall be developed by September and composed only of qualified individuals who indicate a willingness to serve, if nominated and elected. This committee will therefore need to contact the prospective nominees to obtain their willingness to serve, if elected. The principal task of this committee is to maintain a consistently high level of Executive Board leadership within the limits of democratic procedures.
b. The Committee on Convention Arrangements and Order of Business
The Committee on Convention Arrangements and Order of Business shall consist of six members holding three-year terms with two new members elected annually. The committee’s responsibilities include selection of time, place and preacher for the Annual Convention. The time and place is to be selected two years in advance. This committee shall seek to follow the plan of having its Annual Convention on a neighbor island every third year. The preacher of the annual sermon and other program personnel including the music director are to be selected for the current session of the Convention. This committee shall plan the program and order of business of the Annual Convention of the following year, which it shall publish at least one month prior to the annual meeting of the Convention. The committee shall provide a parliamentarian for each session of the Convention and guard carefully the schedule of program adopted by the Convention.
Emergency Conditions: The Executive Board after consultation with the Committee on Convention Arrangements and Order of Business shall have the authority to postpone or advance the date of the annual meeting of the Convention for what may be considered justifiable reasons. In this event, all officers, committees and Executive Board members shall continue to serve until their successors are elected and qualified.
c. The Committee on Credentials and Resolutions
The Committee on Credentials and Resolutions shall consist of six members holding three-year terms with two new members elected annually. This committee will certify messengers to the annual meeting of the Convention and help with the registration of messengers and visitors and such other duties as the Convention may spell out. This committee will be responsible for receiving, studying and recommending all resolutions to the Convention.
d. The Historical Committee
The Historical Committee shall consist of three members holding three-year terms with one new member elected annually. This committee shall formulate a scholarly and comprehensive program for systematically preserving materials of historical value.
3. All standing committees and Executive Board members’ terms shall start with the adjournment of the Annual Convention at which the member is elected or appointed.
4. The president and the executive director-treasurer shall serve as ex-officio members of all committees without the privilege of vote. The executive director-treasurer should provide such secretarial needs as may be required.
5. A record of all minutes of all standing committees shall be on file in the executive director-treasurer’s office.
6. These committees shall report annually in writing to the Convention.
7. Membership on Convention standing and special committees, except the Committee on Committees and Board Nominations, should not bar nomination and election to membership on the Executive Board.
8. In the event of a vacancy on the Committee on Committees and Board Nominations, the president shall appoint a person to fill the vacancy for the remainder of the term. Interim vacancies on the committees of the Convention shall be filled by the Executive Board for the remainder of the year.
IV. COMPOSITION AND DUTIES OF THE EXECUTIVE BOARD AND ITS COMMITTEES
1. The terms of members of the Executive Board shall be established at three years, with the terms of approximately, one-third of the members to expire each year. A person who has served two consecutive terms on the Executive Board shall be ineligible to continue serving. A period of two years following expiration of the second consecutive term must pass before the person can serve again, unless an exception to this restriction is required by the person being elected an officer of the Hawaii Pacific Baptist Convention.
2. The Executive Board shall be composed of ministers, laymen and laywomen.
3. An employee, or member of the immediate family of an employee, of the Convention shall not serve on the Executive Board. Convention employees are those who work for wages or salary from the Hawaii Pacific Baptist Convention. A director or employee or immediate family member of a director of Hawaii Baptist Academy or the Hawaii Baptist Foundation shall not serve on the Executive Board.
4. The Executive Board shall serve as the Convention’s principal advisory group on the total program of the Convention, and recommend the overall plan or organization, program objectives, policies, general allocations of undesignated funds, division of special offerings, and action to be taken on annual reports and budgets of the programs of the Convention.
5. The Executive Board shall act for the Convention, by majority vote of all of its members, to elect the members of the Board of Directors of each of the institutions of the Convention; to approve or disapprove changes to the articles of incorporation and bylaws (or documents by other titles that serve the same purposes) of the institutions; to periodically place limits on the total of financial obligations that each institution may incur; to approve or disapprove of the sale of all or substantially all of each institution’s assets; to dismiss any or all Directors of each institution; and to take such additional actions on behalf of the Convention as the member of each institution is entitled to take under the articles of incorporation and bylaws (or similar documents) of that institution. “Institutions” of the Convention are those nonprofit corporations of which the Convention is the sole member.
6. The Executive Board shall elect the membership of all its committees from the duly elected members of the Executive Board, except for those members who are designated to serve on such committees by virtue of their offices.
7. The Executive Board shall have bylaws and policies and shall determine its time of meeting, organization and method of procedure so long as such bylaws, policies and determinations do not violate the Convention’s constitution and bylaws.
8. The Executive Board of the Convention shall report in writing annually concerning the total programs of the Convention, their operations and such other matters as the Board may deem necessary and proper.
9. The executive director-treasurer shall serve as the principal staff advisor of the Executive Board and its committees and shall furnish secretarial help as needed. The office of the executive director-treasurer shall be responsible for maintaining records of the Executive Board proceedings and mailing out the minutes of each meeting and other appropriate communications to members.
10. The Executive Board shall be responsible for the election of the executive directortreasurer, editor of The Hawaii Pacific Baptist, division directors, associate directors, and for approving basic programs, goals, plans and annual budgets of the Convention.
11. The Executive Board shall have the following standing committees and such special committees as it shall from time to time deem necessary or desirable.
a. Administrative Committee
(1) Structure:
(a) This committee shall consist of the chairman and vice chairman of the other three standing committees of the Executive Board and the president and the two vice presidents of the Convention.
(b) The president of the Convention shall serve as the chairman of this committee and the first vice president of the Convention shall serve as its vice chairman. The committee shall further organize itself annually.
(2) Duties:
(a) Submit a list of nominees for all vacant positions on Executive Board committees to the Executive Board.
(b) Be responsible for recommending to the full Executive Board action to be taken in regard to the internal affairs of the Executive Board such as organization and order of business.
(c) Nominate for election by the Executive Board persons to fill vacancies on the Executive Board and committees of the Convention, except the Committee on Committees and Board Nominations, until the next Annual Meeting of the Convention.
(d) Nominate for election by the Executive Board persons to serve as Directors of Hawaii Baptist Academy and the Hawaii Baptist Foundation.
(e) Review and recommend to the Executive Board the creation of special committees.
(f) Recommend financial goals and recommend the overall allocations of undesignated funds of the Convention.
(g) Review and recommend that portion of the annual budget related to administration.
(h) Review budget proposals from standing committees and recommend the full budget to the Executive Board.
(i) Recommend to the Executive Board job descriptions, salary schedules and the election of Convention employees, and be available to the executive director-treasurer as an advisory committee in personnel matters.
(j) Review and appraise annually the work of the executive directortreasurer.
(k) Review that portion of the Executive Board annual report which deals with the work of this committee.
(l) Make decisions on behalf of the Executive Board, when necessary, between Executive Board meetings, within limits established by the Executive Board.
b. Programs Committee
(1) Structure
(a) This committee shall consist of eight members of the Executive Board, one of whom shall be the president of the Convention. If so directed by the president, a vice president of the Convention may serve in the president's behalf.
(b) This committee shall elect its own chairman and further organize itself annually.
(2) Duties
(a) Be responsible for all programs of the Executive Board not specifically assigned to other committees of the Board.
(b) Review and recommend to the Administrative Committee that portion of the annual budget related to programs assigned.
(c) Recommend for approval the annual calendar of activities for the Convention.
(d) Recommend assignment or reassignment of program responsibilities of the Executive Board of the Convention.
(e) Appraise recommendations to be made to the Convention dealing with programs.
(f) Recommend to the Executive Board implementation of the program of work assigned.
(g) Be responsible for that portion of the Executive Board annual report that deals with the work of this committee.
c. Operations Committee
(1) Structure
(a) This committee shall consist of eight members of the Executive Board, one of whom shall be the president of the Convention. If so directed by the president, a vice president of the Convention may serve in the president's behalf.
(b) This committee shall elect its own chairman and further organize itself annually.
(2) Duties
a) Develop and maintain on a current basis, a policy manual for the Executive Board relating to its operation.
(b) Formulate policies and supervise the purchase or sale, maintenance, and use of Convention properties.
(c) Formulate policies and supervise the business operations of the Convention.
(d) Formulate policies and supervise operations of Puu Kahea Conference Center.
(e) Review and recommend to the Administrative Committee that portion of the annual budget which deals with Convention and Executive Board meetings and all other operations assigned.
(f) Monitor the financial plan of the Convention to see that its policies are adhered to and report any infraction to the Executive
Board. This includes recommending the hiring of an auditor and reviewing audits of the Convention.
(g) Be responsible for that portion of the Executive Board annual report which deals with the work of this committee.
d. Communications Committee
(1) Structure
(a) This committee shall consist of eight members of the Executive Board, one of whom shall be the president of the Convention. If so directed by the president, a vice president of the Convention may serve in the President's behalf.
(b) This committee shall elect its own chairman, and further organize itself annually.
(2) Duties
(a) Maintain awareness and appraise the cooperating relationships among Southern Baptist groups and recommend to the Executive Board actions designed to improve these relationships.
(b) Recommend actions to the Executive Board concerning appropriate ways to develop proper cooperative relationships.
(c) Recommend broad policies having general applicability to the Convention and its institutions.
(d) Formulate policies and supervise the production and circulation of The Hawaii Pacific Baptist.
(e) Recommend financial policies and specific goals for special offerings and other campaigns seeking financial assistance in any form from the churches.
(f) Maintain awareness and appraise trends in public affairs with their attendant problems to Southern Baptists and bring recommendations of actions to be taken by the Executive Board and the Convention.
(g) Review and recommend to the Administrative Committee that portion of the Convention's annual budget which supports the institutions of the Convention and other work assigned.
(h) Be responsible for that portion of the annual Executive Board report dealing with the work of this committee
V. GENERAL FINANCIAL PLAN
1. The Convention recognizes the Cooperative Program as the primary source of financing the work of the Convention, its institutions, and agencies.
2. The Convention recognizes the right of every Baptist and every Baptist group to determine the method or methods through which stewardship obligations are fulfilled.
3. No agencies, divisions, departments, committees, or institutions shall promote or accept funds for any programs or institutions not specifically authorized by the Convention.
4. The Convention authorizes its Executive Board to make reasonable inquiries at any time of the Convention-sponsored agency or institution as to its adherence to financial policies of the Convention.
5. No agency or institution of the Convention shall, without the approval of the Convention or its Executive Board, pledge, directly or indirectly the faith and credit of the Convention.
6. The Convention expects and anticipates that each agency and institution will follow sound business practices in accounting for funds under its control and will maintain as soon as practical, reasonable financial reserves to protect itself against a temporary failure to achieve anticipated annual revenues.
7. The Convention recognizes that the acceptance of financial aid from nonConvention sources may affect the control of the Convention over its agencies and institutions; therefore, it reserves the right to determine the broad limits within which various types of such aid may be accepted.
8. The Convention binds itself and its agencies faithfully to apply and use all designated gifts for the purpose specified by the donor in accordance with the foregoing policy.
9. The executive director-treasurer shall provide quarterly financial reports in writing and an annual audit report prepared by a certified public accountant or auditor.
10. All persons charged with handling monies of Convention agencies shall be bonded.
VI. STATISTICAL AND FISCAL YEAR
1. The statistical year of the Convention shall close with the twelve-month period ending at midnight on June 30.
2. The fiscal year of the Convention shall coincide with the calendar year.
VII. AMENDMENTS
By majority vote these bylaws may be amended at any meeting of the Convention at any time, provided the amendment is distributed in writing to all messengers one hour prior to the time for the discussion of and the voting on the proposed amendment.
