Kingd m Building the
Craig Webb
Executive Director/Treasurer
808-946-9581 craig@hpbaptist.net
From One Servant Leader to Another Contending Together in Action
Aloha Hawaii Pacific Baptists,
When the Apostle Paul urged believers to be "contending together for the faith of the gospel" (Philippians 1:27), he was painting a picture of teamwork - athletes striving side-by-side toward a common goal. As I've traveled throughout our convention these past months, I've witnessed this very principle in beautiful, tangible action.
The pages of this issue showcase how Hawaii Pacific Baptists are truly "contending together" across our region and beyond. From the 38 churches that gathered at the Asia Baptist Network Leadership Conference in Yokohama to the 52 volunteers from Hawaii and five other states who served at Deaf Camp 2025, we are seeing the power of partnership multiply our kingdom impact.
About the Cover Kilauea erupts high lava fountains in the 16th episode on the morning of March 2, 2025. Halemaʻumaʻu crater within Kaluapele. Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park. (licensed Adobe Stock photo)
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I'm particularly encouraged by how our church members are crossing traditional boundaries to serve alongside one another. When Nu'uanu and Central Baptist members returned to Japan for their joint mission trip, they demonstrated that we are stronger when we combine our gifts, resources, and passion for the gospel. The recent Open House and Work Day at Pu'u Kahea Camp and Conference Center similarly brought together volunteers from multiple churches, working shoulder to shoulder to strengthen a ministry that serves us all.
Leadership development remains central to our "contending together" strategy. Through the Trevin Wax Pastors Forum on pastoral authority, our Deacons & Wives Training on servant leadership, and the Transitional Pastor Training, we are equipping God's people at every level to lead with wisdom and grace.
As we enter the summer months, I want to challenge each church to ask: "How might God be calling us to contend together with other believers?" Perhaps He's leading you to partner with a neighboring congregation for Vacation Bible School, join forces with another church for community outreach, or participate in a mission trip with believers from across our convention. Whatever form it takes, remember that we are citizens of heaven, called to live worthy of the gospel by standing firm in one spirit and striving together for the faith.
Let's continue to pray for one another, support one another, and partner together as we advance God's kingdom throughout the Pacific and beyond.
All glory to God,
Craig Webb Executive Director-Treasurer
Hawaii Pacific Baptist Convention
Pacific Connector
2042 Vancouver Dr. Honolulu, HI 96822
808-946-9581
Executive Director, Editor Craig Webb craig@hpbaptist.net
Associate Editor
Dawn Akutagawa dawn@hpbaptist.net
Content Editor Hannah Denney hannahkdenney@gmail.com
Contributing Editor Brandon Pickett
Designer Patti Spencer
Contributing Writers: Dawn Akutagawa, Dennis Andrews, John Blackmon, Johnny Hom, Robert Miller, Corey and Sarah Perkins, Shane Tanigawa, and Craig Webb
The Pacific Connector highlights people and churches that work to spread the Good News of Jesus by reaching the Pacific and Asia.
Information: Information about the Pacific Connector or the Hawaii Pacific Baptist Convention is available by emailing info@hpbaptist.net, or calling 808946-9581. You may also write to Pacific Connector , Hawaii Pacific Baptist Convention, 2042 Vancouver Drive, Honolulu HI 96822.
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4 Asia Baptist Network Leadership Conference
147 leaders from 38 churches participated in this year's conference hosted by Yokohama International Baptist.
6 Taylor Hartley Brings Biblical Insight at ABN
Taylor Hartley brought fundamental chuch concepts to life, all with Japanese translation.
7 HPBC Women Leaders Inspire
A compelling women's track at the ABN Conference provided spiritual enrichment and practical ministry tools.
8 Pu'u Kahea Camp and Conference Center Holds an Open House and Work Day
An open house was hosted on February and in March volunteers arrived to help the center beautify its property.
9 Deaf Camp 2025
The American Sign Language based camp has matured into a full five-day camp with 16 kids participating.
10 Forum Tackles Authority Issue
Trevin Wax challenged pastors to build enduring authority amid cultural skepticism.
11 Deacons & Wives Training
Valuable insights and practical tools for strengthening servant leadership within our churches were shared.
11 Transitional Pastor Ministry Training
Henry and Craig Webb shared insights and practical tools for servant leaders.
Departments
2 Building the Kingdom: Update from our executive directortreasurer.
9 VBS: VBS trainings were held for nine churches across the islands.
12-13 Something to Celebrate: Celebrations, baptisms, and outreach events held throughout the islands
Asia Baptist Network Leadership Conference
Brings 38 Churches Together in Yokohama
By Craig Webb
The annual Asia Baptist Network Leadership Conference recently concluded at Yokohama International Baptist Church (YIBC) in Japan. This year's gathering represented a milestone for the network, which comprises 12 churches and missions across Japan, Thailand, The Philippines, and South Korea.
Under the guidance of host pastor Ben Howard and the YIBC staff, the conference featured several innovations, most notably live translation for all main sessions. This allowed the many Japanese language speakers from area churches to participate fully in the conference.
Taylor Hartley of 9Marks ministries, based in Washington, DC, served as the conference's primary speaker (see page 6). His presentations complemented multiple breakout sessions, including a newly introduced women's track that expanded the conference's educational offerings (see page 7).
Hawaii Pacific Baptist Convention leaders played significant roles in the event's conclusion. HPBC Executive Director Craig Webb delivered
the closing message on Tuesday afternoon, while HPBC President and Kona Baptist Senior Pastor Brian Frable brought the conference to its conclusion with Wednesday afternoon's final address.
The conference maintained its tradition of welcoming not only members of the Asia Baptist Network churches but also extended invitations to pastors and leaders from other regional churches, as well as missionaries serving throughout Asia. This year's event was particularly successful in its reach, with 147 leaders participating from 38 churches.
Ben Howard, YIBC lead pastor, said, “This conference was only possible because of the partnership between the churches of the Asia Baptist Network, the support of Hawaii Pacific Baptist Convention, and the sacrificial service of the members of Yokohama International Baptist Church. It was a joy for us to host, and an encouragement to see the results of our efforts in the ministries of local churches both here in Japan and throughout the Asia Pacific region.”
HPBC President and Kona Baptist Senior Pastor Brian Frable preaches the closing message on Wednesday afternoon's final address.
HPBC Executive Director Craig Webb preaches the closing message on Tuesday afternoon
Taylor Hartley Brings Biblical Insight to Life at ABN Conference
By Craig Webb
A church is a group of baptized Christians who regularly gather to proclaim the gospel, affirm one another's faith through the ordinances, and live together as the family of God."
Ifyou attended the recent Asia Baptist Network Leadership Conference in Yokohama, Japan, you couldn't miss the impact of Taylor Hartley's engaging sessions. As Editorial Director of 9Marks, Hartley didn't just deliver lectures—he brought fundamental church concepts to life through four dynamic sessions, all with Japanese translation.
Starting with the fundamental question, "What is a church?" Hartley used everyday language and relatable examples to unpack complex ideas. "A church is a group of baptized Christians who regularly gather to proclaim the gospel, affirm one another's faith through the ordinances, and live together as the family of God," he explained, setting the foundation for everything that followed.
Even through translation, Taylor's warm, conversational style kept everyone engaged as he tackled church membership, mission, and leadership. He didn't shy away from challenging topics but addressed them with biblical conviction and a pastor's heart.
Conference attendees particularly appreciated Hartley's practical wisdom. Rather than getting lost in theological abstractions, he consistently brought discussions back to real-life church situations that resonated with leaders from all 38 churches present.
His 9Marks experience shone through as he connected with pastors and leaders across cultural contexts. Whether you were taking notes furiously or just soaking it all in, Hartley's sessions provided both the "why" and "how" of building healthy churches throughout Asia—precisely what church leaders needed to hear.
Dr. Taylor Hartley teaches while Himeji Baptist Church's associate pastor, Masahiro Haruta, translates
HPBC Women Leaders inspire at ABN Conference
TBy Craig Webb
he 2025 Asia Baptist Network Leadership Conference featured a compelling women's track that provided both spiritual enrichment and practical ministry tools. Held at Yokohama International Baptist Church, the conference brought together women from Japan, South Korea, Thailand, and The Philippines.
On Tuesday afternoon, Diana Ventura, Hawaii Pacific Baptist Convention (HPBC) Director of Women's Ministry, shared her personal journey and ministry vision. Born in Guatemala and raised in California, Ventura has served alongside her husband Stephen in Hawaii for 14 years. Her presentation highlighted three focal areas of HPBC women's ministry: Woman's Missionary Union (WMU), Women in Leadership, and Wives in Ministry.
"My role is to support, equip, empower, and encourage women to grow in the Lord," Ventura explained. She emphasized the importance of hunger for God's Word, seeking Godly wisdom, and building community among women. Ventura's session resonated with attendees as she shared her life verse from Joshua 1:8-9, encouraging women to stand firm in their faith.
Wednesday's session featured Barbara Webb, wife of HPBC Executive Director-Treasurer Craig Webb, who led an innovative workshop on Creative Journaling. The hands-on session introduced participants to artistic approaches to worship and prayer through various journaling techniques.
Webb guided attendees through exercises including "blind drawing" to music, scripture artistry, and creating visual prayer trees for family and friends. Each participant received a journal and art supplies donated by HPBC Women's Ministry, funded by your gifts through the Sue Nishikawa Offering for Hawaii Pacific Missions.
"The purpose is to see journaling not just as written words but as a rich variety of expressions that can bring a fresh perspective to your time with our Father," Webb explained as participants explored new ways to connect with God through creativity.
The bilingual sessions, translated for Japanese participants, created a unifying experience that transcended language barriers. Attendees departed with practical tools and renewed inspiration for their personal spiritual journeys and ministry roles within their respective international Baptist communities.
Pu'u Kahea Camp and Conference Center Holds an Open House and Work Day
By Corey and Sarah Perkins
On February 22, Pu'u Kahea Camp and Conference Center (PKCC) hosted an Open House for members of HPBC and partnering churches. The event allowed attendees to explore all the facilities, learn about its current needs and volunteer opportunities, and to discover how groups can rent the facilities.
Then, on March 29, over 40 volunteers from HPBC churches, Baptist Collegiate Ministries (BCM) Oʻahu, and a mission team from the
BCM at Louisiana State University came out for a Work Day at PKCC. Volunteers focused on beautifying the property.
Thank you to everyone who volunteered, and thank you to all who have supported PKCC through their prayers and financial gifts!
If you have an interested in volunteering, donating, or having your next retreat or camp with us, please visit: hpbaptist.net/pkcc or email office@pkcc.org
By Shane Tanigawa
March 17-25, 2025, saw the fourth Kids Deaf Camp at First Baptist Church of Pearl City . The camp was conducted entirely in American Sign Language (ASL) with sixteen kids participating. Fiftytwo volunteers helped, of which thirty-one were ASL signers. Besides Oahu, volunteers came from the Big Island, Florida, Illinois, New Jersey, South Carolina, and Tennessee.
What began as a three-day camp has matured into a full five-day camp.
This year’s partnering Tennessee churches were Brentwood
Deaf Camp 2025
52 Volunteers from Hawaii and Five Other States Contend
Together for Deaf Camp
Baptist Deaf Church (Pastor Aric Randolph) and Deaf Church Knoxville (Pastor Arthur Clayton). Partnering HPBC churches were First Baptist Church of Pearl City (Pastor Sterling Lee), University Avenue Baptist Church (Pastor Shane Tanigawa) and Nuʻuanu Baptist Church (Pastor Bob Gierhart).
The enduring cooperation and partnership between Hawaii Pacific and Tennessee Baptists continue to expand the reach of the gospel to the deaf community on Oahu. The Deaf look forward to 2026 in anticipation of not one but two deaf camps!
VBS Trainings Held for Nine Different Churches Across the Islands
By Dawn Akutagawa
Vacation Bible School (VBS) training events were recently held—one on O‘ahu and one in Kona on the Big Island. These two VBS events drew participants from nine different churches across the islands.
The theme, “Discovering the Bigness of God in the Smallest of Things,” inspired leaders and volunteers to explore how even the tiniest moments in one's life can reveal God’s greatness.
Explores Trevin Wax in Recent Pastors Forum Pastoral Authority
By Craig Webb
On March 19, 2025, Hawaii Pacific Baptist pastors gathered virtually for an enriching Pastors Forum featuring Dr. Trevin Wax, vice president of research and resource development at the North American Mission Board and regular columnist at The Gospel Coalition. Dr. Wax offered timely insights on the critical topic of pastoral authority in today's challenging ministry context.
Biblical Foundations of Authority
Dr. Wax grounded his presentation in Scripture, emphasizing that authentic pastoral authority flows from faithful service rather than mere positional power. Drawing from biblical examples, he illustrated how Jesus himself modeled leadership through sacrifice and service.
"The pastor's authority isn't self-appointed or self-serving," Dr. Wax noted. "It's delegated authority from Christ himself, meant to build up the body and point people to Jesus."
Navigating Cultural Challenges
A significant portion of the discussion addressed how today's cultural shifts have reshaped congregational expectations and perceptions of pastoral leadership. Dr. Wax offered practical wisdom for pastors seeking to lead effectively while honoring both biblical standards and the genuine concerns of their congregations.
Balancing Conviction with Humility
Participants particularly appreciated Dr. Wax's thoughtful navigation of the tension between leading with conviction while maintaining Christ-like humility. He provided several practical approaches to exercising authority in ways that strengthen rather than diminish the church—emphasizing that the goal is always spiritual formation, not control.
You may watch Trevin's and other Pastors Forums at hpbaptist.net/video-resources.
Nearly 50 deacons and their wives gathered at Nu'uanu Baptist Church on February 1 for a special training event co-sponsored by Hawaii Pacific Baptist Convention and Oahu Baptist Network. The half-day session provided valuable insights and practical tools for strengthening servant leadership within our churches.
Dr. Henry Webb, author of "Deacons: Servant Models in the Church" and former editor of Deacon Magazine, shared from his extensive experience as a deacon, pastor, and national deacon consultant. Dr. Craig Webb, Executive Director-Treasurer of HPBC and content editor for Lifeway's Deacon Magazine, brought local context and pastoral wisdom to the training.
The morning began with breakfast and fellowship, creating opportunities for deacons from different churches to connect and share experiences. The first session focused on "Deacons Are Servant Leaders and How Deacon Wives Support the Church," exploring the nine biblical qualities of deacons outlined
Deacons & Wives Training Strengthens Servant Leadership
By Craig Webb
in 1 Timothy 3:8-13 and the unique contributions of deacons' wives to ministry.
"These qualities are not just qualifications for selection but lifelong challenges for every deacon," emphasized Dr. Henry Webb, encouraging attendees to continually grow as servant leaders who model Christian character.
The second session on "Equipping Deacons and Wives for Caring in Crisis" provided practical guidance for ministering effectively during difficult times. Participants learned nine specific actions for crisis ministry, including taking the initiative, being good listeners, providing practical help, and following up consistently.
Many attendees expressed appreciation for the training's balance of biblical teaching and practical application. "This has renewed my understanding of what it means to serve as a deacon," shared one participant. Deacons' wives particularly valued the acknowledgment of their vital role in supporting both their husbands and the broader church family.
Transitional Pastor Ministry Training Practical Tools for Transition
By Robert Miller
OnFebruary 24-25, 2025 Drs. Henry Webb, Craig Webb, and Robert Miller led transitional pastor ministry training for eight men. Pastors Daniel Tomita (retired), Mark Tagami, Joe Boney, Bill Messer, Arjay Gruspe, Mike Procter, Andrew Large (retired), and David Whitehead completed the two-day training. This training is designed to help current and future interim
pastors better serve churches in transition. A transitional pastor is given practical tools and trained to lead a congregation through eight steps of transition, culminating in helping the new pastor get a good start in the church and community. Pastor-less churches can contact our Hawaii Pacific Baptist Convention office for assistance.
Dr. Henry Webb shared from his extensive experience as a deacon, pastor, and national deacon consultant.
Many Gathered in Celebration of Pastor Tim Elisaga’s Ordination
Mililani Baptistʻs New Childrenʻs Director
By Dennis Andrews
Mililani Baptist Church (MBC) has a new Children’s Director, Jacque McGowan. Jacque answered God’s calling at the same time Rachel Andrews (MBC’s former Kid Ministry Director) sensed God’s call to focus on ministry as a foster parent.
Since moving to Oahu in September in 2023, Jacque shares, “From our first Sunday at MBC, we knew God was calling us here. I began serving in childrenʻs ministry through AWANA, leading the Sparks class. In January, I was honored to become the director, fueled by a passion for serving our kids. My heart is to help each child grow closer to the Lord and choose Jesus as their Savior.”
By Robert Miller
Ohana Church members, Big Island Baptist Association (BIBA) pastors, along with friends and family gathered on March 16 to celebrate the ordination of Pastor Tim Elisaga. Both church and pastor were challenged by a charge followed by pastors laying hands on Pastor Tim and praying for him. Food and fellowship followed the afternoon ordination service.
Earlier on December 9, 2023, an ordination council met to examine and affirm Pastor Tim. Tim Elisaga has served as Bivocational Pastor of Ohana Church in Hilo since December 2022. Prior to Ohana Church Pastor Tim served with Grace Baptist in Hilo.
Waikoloa Church Baptisms
Waikoloa Church ʻs most recent Baptism Celebration in February was amazing to witness as Nya and Isaac Boucher joined the church and were baptized along with Pepper, a student, and
two more (Susan and Clay) who were baptized as well.
(Below: left to right) Nya and Isaac Boucher, Pepper, and Trent Thompson (far right) is pastor.
Connections Church Baptisms
Connections Church was excited to celebrate with those who decided to proclaim their faith in Jesus through baptism on March 19. Many from the church gathered to celebrate the five who were baptized. David Whitehead is pastor.
Members of Nu'uanu and Central Baptist Return to Japan for Mission Trip
By Johnny Hom
This March, the mission team from Nu’uanu and Central Baptist returned to Fukuoka to focus on discipleship and outreach with Sawara Christ Church (SCC). God provided many opportunities to build up and encourage believers and seekers in Christ while also using music ministry to open the door for evangelism. The team
was strongly affirmed that God used this visit to encourage the church amidst a blessed but challenging season of transition at SCC.
They praise God for continuing to sustain Pastor Sasagu and his wife Kiyomi in their ministry and say that the mission partnership greatly encourages them.
Mahalo to the Borgs and Tankerslys (IMB missionary families) for their help in providing these opportunities to serve in Fukuoka.
Team Members: Pastor Johnny Hom, Andrew Cabagbag, Irene Nagahara, and Tani Salazar.
Five Languages, One Faith Bangkok Church Celebrates International Sunday
By John Blackmon
OnSunday, March 23, all five language ministries of Calvary International Baptist Church (CIBC) in Bangkok gathered for a special “international Sunday” to celebrate and express their unity as the body of Christ.
English-speaking (of many nations), Burmese, Thai, Karen, and Nepali Christians gathered together to worship. The service was opened with scripture, 1 Corinthians 12:12, being read in each language. The church’s new Burmese pastor preached that morning in Burmese and his message was translated into English. The Thai/Karen pastor, Dr. Sawang Tono, also offered words of encouragement. Each language ministry shared special music.
CIBC plans to have other “international” Sundays 2-3 times throughout the year.
Dr. John Blackmon begins the International Sunday service with prayer.
Calvary International Baptist Church joined HPBC in 2017 alongside other sister churches with the Asia Baptist Network. While CIBC is not the only international Baptist church, it has many unique qualities including five different language services and the English/international congregation having over twenty nationalities.
(left to right) Thida and Ishu Tamang,Nepali ministry; Grayson and Karen Orman, international ministry; Living and Sue Stone, Burmese ministry; Nit and Dr. Sawang Tono, Thai and Karen Ministry, and Dr. John and Cheryl Blackmon (John is lead pastor)
2025 First Quarter Summary February Executive Board Meeting
The Executive Board held its first quarterly meeting of 2025 on February 21 at Nuʻuanu Baptist Church. President Brian Frable opened the meeting with Scripture and prayer, followed by the appointment of Debi Buchholz to record minutes. The board welcomed new member Glenn Basuel, who shared his pastoral and military background. Key financial actions included approving a $67,359 transfer to cover Puʻu Kahea’s 2024 deficit, allocating $25,000 for emergency repairs, setting the 2026 budget goal at $1,110,000, and appointing CW Associates for the 2024 audit. New bank signers were also authorized.
Regarding property matters, LIFE Christian Church was permitted to pursue renovations at the Halawa Heights property, pending permits and final approval. The Executive Director was tasked with seeking legal review of facility agreements and requesting church assistance for Puʻu Kahea needs.
Lester Kaneta was appointed to a four-year term on the Hawaii Baptist Foundation board. A task force was created to recommend updates to the HPBC Constitution and By-laws ahead of the 2025 Annual Meeting. Scholarships were awarded to nine theology students. The board also continues efforts to fill vacant positions and explore a future partnership with Hawaii Baptist Academy for Puʻu Kahea.
The next meeting is scheduled for May 9, 2025.
2025 Executive Board Officers
left to right:
Craig Webb (executive director-treasurer)
Central Baptist Church
Honolulu, Island of Oahu
Pastor Brian Frable (president)
Kona Baptist Church, Kailua Kona, Hawaii Island
Pastor Shane Tanigawa (first vice president)
University Avenue Baptist Church, Honolulu, Island of Oahu;
Pastor Larry Hale (second vice president)
Eleele Baptist Church, Eleele
2025 Executive Board Members
Glenn Basuel
Debi Buchholz
Eric Dissinger
Chris Eyre
Matt Gao
Paula Higuchi
Hawnsoo Jang
Johnny Lau
Hanale Lindo
Neil Nakama
Anson Okimoto
Sandy Pedersen
Brent Takushi
Daniel Tomita
Reina Yamada
For all executive board updates, go to: hpbaptist.net/executive-board
