First Baptist Wahiawa Celebrates Its 90th Anniversary

Written by Michael Abagon, pastor

First Baptist Church of Wahiawa is proud to celebrate its 90th Anniversary. Its journey has been one marked by faith, resilience, and community.

Founded in November 1925 by Charles J. McDonald, the church began as a small outreach aimed at spreading the gospel beyond Honolulu. With support from local laymen, Pastor McDonald held the first service at a public playground. There, seeds of a vibrant congregation were planted.

This year's celebration theme was titled, "Beauty for Ashes," which is inspired by Isaiah 61. It reflects the church's triumphs over adversity, including challenges from COVID-19 and the devastating Lahaina fire.

The month-long festivities began with a Community Fun Fair which featured shave ice, VBS songs, Bible distribution, and a message of hope. FBC Wahiawa also hosted a drive-thru food distribution in partnership with Aloha Harvest and Waipahu Community Christian Church, reinforcing its commitment to serving the community.

Highlights included a special Anniversary Banquet during the Anniversary Sunday with Dr. Craig Webb and a powerful message from Dr. Edsel Bone. The celebrations showcased music, testimonies, and even baptisms, emphasizing the church’s enduring legacy.

As FBC Wahiawa looks to the future, it prays for a bountiful harvest for the next 90 years and beyond!