ANNUAL MEETING
edition
“To Him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, for ever and ever, Amen.” ~ Ephesians 3:21
pacific
connector 2026 l NOV DEC VOL 56 l ISSUE 6
Building the Kingd m Aloha, Hawaii Pacific Baptist Family, Many of you are leading faithful churches far from the help and peer support that others might take for granted. I felt that when I was pastoring in Lahaina 30 years ago, and I remember how isolating it can be.
Craig Webb Executive Director/Treasurer 808-946-9581 craig@hpbaptist.net
That’s a big reason why, this October, your HPBC staff and leadership began a season of seeking clarity about where the Lord is leading us. Our goal is simple: to discern how HPBC can best serve and strengthen your church in the mission God has given you, right where you are. Consultant Chris Reinolds is guiding us, and the conversations have been honest, humbling, and hopeful. We’re asking big questions. What does a healthy, vital church look like in Hawaii, the Pacific, and Asia? How do we build deeper trust among our churches, associations, and our convention? What can we expect from one another? And maybe the biggest one: how do we move from being a mission field that receives to a mission force that sends? The answers won’t come from our office. They’ll come from you. In January and February 2027, we’ll hold regional listening sessions across the islands, with conversations for our Asia and Pacific churches to follow. I’ll share more in my report at the Annual Meeting. Until then, would you pray with us? Speaking of the Annual Meeting, we’ve packed more into this year’s gathering than ever. Join us at Olivet Baptist Church on Thursday evening, November 19, and all day Friday, November 20, as Shane Pruitt, Jeff Iorg, and Adam Groza bring the Word. There’s something special about gathering as a convention family each November, and this year I’m especially excited. Our theme, To Christ Be Glory for Every Generation, comes from Ephesians 3:20–21. It reflects our desire to see every generation represented and served in our work. A few things to look for: ■ Pastors and Wives Appreciation Dinner, Wednesday evening, November 18 ■ Next Gen Pre-Party, Thursday at 4:00 p.m., right before we open
About the Cover 2026 Annual Meeting Theme. The Annual Meeting is a gathering of Hawaii Pacific Baptist messengers and guests.
■ New Equipping Breakouts, Friday morning with Lifeway’s Groups expert, Ken Braddy, NAMB’s Women’s Evangelism leading voice, Catherine Renfro, an IMB team led by Chris Martin, and HPBC Disaster Relief co-directors John and Gay Williams ■ Free childcare, so bring the whole family ■ Reaching Next Gens Equipping Conference, Saturday morning, wrapping up by 12:30, so you’re home in time for Sunday Come ready to worship, be encouraged, and dream together about what God might do through us. I can’t wait to see you there!
Blessings, For More Issues Scan this QR code or visit: hpbaptist.net/pacificconnector
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Craig Webb
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 Belle Grewatz Contributing Editor Brandon Pickett Designer Patti Spencer Contributing Writers Belle Grewatz, Julia Haggard, Joel Kaminaga, James Lynch, Robert Miller, Tyler Sanders, Gay Williams, 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 calling 808-946-9581 or emailing info@hpbaptist.net. You may also write to Pacific Connector, Hawaii Pacific Baptist Convention, 2042 Vancouver Drive, Honolulu HI 96822. Online Access The Pacific Connector is provided online, free of charge, and available at: hpbaptist.net/pacificconnector. Designed by Innovative Faith Resources, a non-profit media firm, specializing in helping churches and non-profits with graphic design, video, branding, and financial services. For more information, visit innovativefaith.org.
Contents 2 Building the Kingdom
Update from our executive director-treasurer.
4 Gateway Seminary Reports Record Fall Enrollment
Accredited theological education has come home to the Pacific.
6 Financial Update
Hawaii Pacific Baptists give generously.
7 Church Health Conference in Honolulu Expands to Samoa
Practical leadership training for pastors, pastors’ wives, and church leaders held in Honolulu and American Samoa.
8 An Update: Tokyo Baptist Church’s Impact Building Project
In its existing parking area, Tokyo Baptist Church plans to construct a new worship auditorium.
8 Equipping Those Who Serve Our Youngest Learners
Christian preschool educators gathered for the Hawaii Baptist Early Education Association annual conference.
9 Freedom Village Church: Almost Home in Seoul
Freedom Village Church is taking a bold step of faith by pursuing a full renovation of their Haebangchon building in Seoul’s Itaewon district.
10 Three Maui County Churches, and One Missouri Church: Huge Impact in One Week
Pastor Jay Haynes of Kahului Baptist in Maui shares about the impact of partnership.
11 When Crisis Strikes, the Church Responds
Hurricane Lala and the power of partnership—this is what the Church looks like when it’s awake and responsive.
12 BCM Welcome Week
Students were cared for, meaningful connections were formed, and the Gospel was shared.
13 When Doors Open: A Partnership that Welcomed the World
Students from over twenty countries came to University Avenue Baptist for the Big Giveaway—students far from home and needing the basics.
14 God’s Masterpiece: 130 Women Discover Their Purpose
Women gathered to study scripture and embrace God’s purpose for their lives.
15 Oahu Baptist Network Youth Camp
A camp focus of using God’s Word to equip the campers for spiritual battle.
16 IMB Celebrating God’s Work
An infographic reporting IMB’s missionaries and partners work during 2025.
17 Waterhouse Biblical Counseling Conference
Our own Paula Higuchi, director of The Biblical Counseling Center of Maui, was featured.
18-20 HPBC Annual Meeting: To Christ Be Glory for Every Generation
Detailed information regarding the schedule, speakers, and the Reaching Next Gens: Equipping Conference can be found on these pages.
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Students gather for Gateway Seminary Professor John Taylor’s New Testament 1 class. John is a professor of New Testament and chair of the Biblical Studies Department at Gateway.
Gateway Seminary Reports
Record Fall Enrollment
Students from Oahu and Maui gather for Dr. Paul Kelly’s Principles of Bible Teaching class. Paul is professor of Educational Leadership and director of Gateway Seminary’s Hawaii Pacific School of Theology.
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By Tyler Sanders
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ateway Seminary announced Fall 2026 enrollment has reached an all-time high, with total enrollment climbing to 1,095 students — a 12.9% increase over Fall 2025’s 970 students. New student enrollment saw even sharper gain, rising to 338 students from 231 the previous year, a 46.3% increase and the largest incoming class in Gateway’s history. “We are thankful for the increases in enrollment we are experiencing at Gateway Seminary,” said President Adam Groza. “Many people at the seminary have worked hard to help us achieve this growth, but it is God’s blessing for which we are most thankful.” Several factors are contributing to this growth. Nearly all of Gateway’s campuses across the Western United States grew in both headcount and hours sold. The seminary’s new Hawaii site launched this year with 24 students enrolled, accounting for 116 credit hours of coursework. “The initial success in Hawaii is an exciting indicator of the need for contextualized theological education,” said Groza. “Our partnership with the Hawaii Pacific Baptist Convention (HPBC) is the cornerstone of our expansion in the region; the results we are seeing are directly related to the longstanding strength and leadership of the HPBC.”
To have so many new students join us to prepare for a lifetime of ministry service is a humbling and joyful experience.” New students collectively registered for 1,698 credit hours in Fall 2026, nearly one-third of the seminary’s total credit hour count of 5,240, demonstrating the impact of an increased size class of incoming students. In-person credit hours system-wide increased significantly; 52% of the total credit hours were on campus in fall 2026, up from 42% in fall 2025. “The arrival of new students at Gateway Seminary is always worth celebrating,” said Vice President for Enrollment and Student Services Kristen Ferguson. “To have so many new students join us to prepare for a lifetime of ministry service is a humbling and joyful experience.” Gateway Seminary continues to expand its reach through new campus locations and flexible online learning options, while maintaining its commitment to theological education rooted in Scripture and the doctrinal positions of the Baptist Faith and Message. This article is reprinted by permission from gs.edu.
Dr. Paul Kelly teaches the first in-person Gateway Seminary class in Hilo on the Big Island.
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Financial Update According to Monica Kang, HPBC Director for Finance, between July 1, 2025 – June 30, 2026, Hawaii Pacific Baptists gave $1,663,336 through the Cooperative Program and special offerings. This includes:
$1,150,229 through the Cooperative Program $137,272 to the Sue Nishikawa Offering for Hawaii Pacific Missions $140,438 to the Annie Armstrong Easter Offering for North American Missions $217,656 to the Lottie Moon Christmas Offering for International Missions $17,741 to World Hunger Offering
Thank you
Hawaii Pacific Baptists!
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Leaders from the Samoan, Chinese, and Korean churches gather for training at Samoa Baptist Academy for training with Brian Croft and Craig Webb on Tuesday, September 22.
Church Health Conference in Honolulu Expands to Samoa By HPBC’s Robert Miller
C
hurch leaders from over 35 churches throughout the Pacific attended the 2026 Church Health Conference on September 18-19 at Olivet Baptist Church in Honolulu. The theme of the conference was “Developing a Healthy Church.” Church leaders from the Big Island, Kauai, Maui, American Samoa, and Oahu participated. Brian Croft of Practical Shepherding, one of our most requested speakers, returned as our keynote speaker. He was joined this year by JimBo Stewart, the Associate Director of Replant at the North American Mission Board (NAMB). JimBo’s wife, Audrea, a speaker for NAMB, led a women’s breakout session. Matthew Spandler-Davidson, the ministry director of Practical Shepherding, also led a breakout session and shared testimonies. Conference speakers addressed the importance of the Great Commission when developing a healthy church. Breakout sessions addressed raising leaders and cultivating a culture of discipleship. Throughout the conference, church leaders were encouraged to prioritize disciple-making (Matthew 28:18-20). JimBo Stewart, a Replanting and Revitalization Strategist, challenged leaders to follow Jesus’ discipleship model of “Come and See” as described in John 1:35-51. He said, “Discipleship is helping people to abide with Jesus.” Along with equipping others with the basics of the faith, Stewart added, “Every problem in your church is a discipleship opportunity.” Brian Croft addressing a gathering of American Samoa church members
Participants benefited from four main sessions, four breakout sessions, and a question-and-answer time with the four speakers. Pastors were also encouraged to bring their church leaders and debrief with them at the end of the conference. This two-day conference was sponsored by the Hawaii Pacific Baptist Convention and was supported through grants from the North American Mission Board and the Sue Nishikawa Offering for Hawaii Pacific Missions. The impact of the conference didn’t stop in Honolulu. The following Monday night, HPBC Executive Director-Treasurer Craig Webb and Brian Croft boarded a plane to American Samoa to conduct the first-ever Church Health Conference for the South Pacific Baptist Association. All HPBC-affiliated and South Pacific Baptist Association churches were represented as Webb and Croft provided practical leadership training for pastors, pastors’ wives, and church leaders from the local churches throughout American Samoa. On Wednesday night, Brian Croft addressed a gathering of church members from all the SPBA churches in American Samoa at Happy Valley Baptist Church, where Pastor Saufoi Tavete serves. Pastor Tavete graciously provided interpretation for all of the leadership training sessions and the community event, ensuring that every participant could fully engage with the biblical teaching and practical ministry tools being presented. (left to right) Robert Miller, Brian Croft, JimBo Stewart, Audrea Stewart, Matthew Spandler Davidson, and Craig Webb
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An Update: Tokyo Baptist Church’s Impact Building Project By Joel Kaminaga
In
its existing parking area, Tokyo Baptist Church (TBC) plans to construct a new worship auditorium. Upon completion, the current building will be demolished, and the site will be converted into a parking area. The church has identified two primary reasons for this plan. First, the project will support the church’s growth by providing additional seating capacity. The current worship auditorium, which is 67 years old, accommodates 320 people, while the new facility would seat between 400 and 520 people, depending on its design. Second, the project will enhance building safety by meeting current building codes. By God’s grace, as of August 2026, TBC has reached 98.2 percent of its 508.2 million yen ($3.2 million) giving goal. The church is currently seeking God’s guidance in selecting the appropriate company to design and construct the new building. For more details, visit: tokyobaptist.org/ibp.
Equipping Those Who Serve Our Youngest Learners
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or the 26th year, Christian preschool educators gathered September 18–19 at the Prince for the Hawaii Baptist Early Education Association (HBEEA) annual conference. This year’s event drew 121 directors, teachers, and staff from 10 Baptist preschools and five other Christian preschools. The conference strengthens and encourages preschool staff in their work with children and families while also providing professional development.
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Attendees began with worship, and Pastor Michael “Bong” Abagon brought the morning message before the group moved into breakout sessions. Under new HBEEA president Fudge Fajardo of First Baptist Church of Haleiwa, the association continues to champion the truth that a church preschool is a ministry, not just a school. When pastors and directors work together with mutual respect and a shared mission, preschools become one of a church’s most
Freedom Village Church:
Almost Home in Seoul By James Lynch, Pastor
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ne year ago, in our November-December 2025 issue, we introduced you to Freedom Village Church and the bold step of faith they were taking: a full renovation of their Haebangchon building in Seoul’s Itaewon district. Today, we get to celebrate how far God has brought them! The first phase of construction is expected to be complete by mid-November, and the church is prayerfully hoping to begin worshipping in its new space at the start of the new year. “What began as a dream of establishing a permanent home for our church is now taking shape before our eyes,” Pastor James shares. Take a close look at the photo he sent us in early October. The landmark rising on the mountain behind the building is N Seoul Tower, standing atop Namsan in the heart of the city. That view tells you something important about this church’s location. Itaewon is known as Seoul’s most international neighborhood, a place where embassies, international businesses, foreign residents, military families, and visitors from around the world all cross paths. Haebangchon, tucked into the slopes of Namsan right next door, is home to longtime Korean residents alongside many expatriates and English teachers. In a city of nearly 10 million people, it is hard to imagine a more strategic crossroads for a church whose heart is to reach the nations.
effective bridges into the community. They reach families who may never walk through the doors on a Sunday morning. HBEEA Directors
Freedom Village Church’s renovated building in Haebangchon, early October 2026, with N Seoul Tower rising on Namsan behind it.
That is exactly the vision. “More than simply renovating a building, we desire to establish a lasting home for the gospel in Seoul,” Pastor James says. “We want this to be a place where people from all nations can encounter Jesus, grow as disciples, and be equipped to serve their communities.” Freedom Village is an Asia Baptist Network/HPBC church, and we are proud to stand with them. They are now working to raise the final $100,000 to finish the project, and you can help! Give online at tinyurl.com/FVC-Seoul or by scanning the QR code.
HPBC was glad to support the conference with a grant from the Sue Nishikawa Offering for Hawaii Pacif ic Missions. In a note of thanks, HBEEA expressed deep gratitude for HPBC’s partnership and for investing in those who faithfully serve our youngest learners.
Thank you HPBC churches! Your gifts through the Sue Nishikawa Offering make a difference.
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something to
partnership
Celebrate
Three Maui County Churches, One Missouri Church: Huge Impact in One Week By Belle Grewatz
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his past July, a missions team of twentynine members from Riverview Baptist Church from Lake of the Ozarks, Missouri came to partner with and serve three local churches in a single week. They were hosted for a second time by Kahului Baptist Church on Maui, pastored by Jay Haynes. Riverview Baptist served alongside their host church, Kahului Baptist, and with Pukalani Baptist Church on Maui and Lanai Baptist Church on the Island of Lanai. The team arrived on Saturday evening. During the week, the Riverview Baptist Church team served alongside members of Kahului Baptist Church during their Vacation Bible School in the mornings. Over 60 kids were enrolled in VBS where they experienced the love of Jesus. Moreover, many of the VBS costs were covered by the generosity of Riverview Baptist Church. In the afternoons, the team split up to serve Pukalani Baptist Church and Lanai Baptist Church. Kahului Baptist Church partners with both churches closely, so Pastor Jeremy Kaneshiro (Pukalani Baptist Church) and Pastor Chris Komatsu (Lanai Baptist Church) were able to share needs that could be met by the mission team. At Pukalani Baptist Church, the team helped with the church’s sound equipment. Kahului Baptist Church VBS
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Pastor Kaneshiro shared, “They cleared out and rewired our entire system. They even bought new equipment for our church. They worked tirelessly to fix and update our sound system, which has been a huge blessing.” Meanwhile at Lanai Baptist Church, the team worked to replace Pastor Komatsu’s roof in three days, fixed his truck, renovated the kitchen in the Hale Pule, and began working on a new bathroom for their facility. Pastor Komatsu reflected, “All the arduous physical labor that they have done is truly not the most important part of their work. The encouragement and support that they provide our body and my ‘ohana is ineffable. For our body to know that there is a church thousands of miles away who cares so seriously about our well being is incredibly invigorating. We praise God for Riverview Baptist and their serious desire toward meaningful service to other churches. Mahalo Ke Akua!” The mission team exemplified what it means to be a benefit wherever they go, not a burden. Pastor Haynes explained that they came to work and were intentional about meeting the specific needs the local churches were facing. The team’s flexibility and heart to serve made it possible to accomplish unique ministry opportunities during their time in Hawaiʻi.
Kahului Baptist Church VBS Family Night
Updating the sound system at Pukalani Baptist Church
WHEN CRISIS STRIKES, THE CHURCH RESPONDS
Hurricane Lala and the Power of Partnership By HPBC’s Robert Miller
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n August 15th, Category 1 Hurricane Lala made landfall in the Hawaiian Islands, with Naalehu—the southernmost community on the Big Island—bearing the brunt of the damage. Mudslides tore homes from their foundations. Families watched their lives become rubble. In that moment, a : Would the Church respond?
critical question arose
Pastor Mike and Monica Brennan recently moved to Hawaii to establish “All Nations Church” and to launch a safe house for women rescued from human trafficking. They’re new to the community, but they didn’t wait to understand the landscape— they immediately looked for ways to serve. When Hurricane Lala struck, they saw families in crisis and spoke up. Their advocacy reached HPBC and Big Island Baptist Association leadership with a clear message: our community needs help now. HPBC’s disaster relief coordination sprang into action. Gay and John Williams, HPBC’s co-directors of Hawaii Pacific Baptist Disaster Relief, assessed the situation. Funds were released from HPBC to partner with funds from the Big Island Baptist Association. These monies were sent to Paradise Park Baptist Church, led by Pastor Mike Brennan, to provide immediate relief. At the Williams’ request, SBC’s Send Relief shipped a generator to Pahala Baptist Church to support Pastor Marino Ramones’s community response. More than money and supplies, it was partnership and presence: Teams from Hamakua Baptist Church (Pastor Josh Morris and Tom Adams) deployed for mold mitigation and tree work. Volunteers from Waialae Baptist and Hawaiʻi Kai Church served on O’ahu to assist families there. The network of churches closest to the affected areas mobilized together.
Supplies and equipment gathered for Hurricane Lala disaster relief distribution in Ka’u, Big Island—generators, pumps, hoses, gas cans, and more—ready to be delivered to families rebuilding after mudslides destroyed homes in the Naalehu community. HPBC’s disaster relief coordination brought together Big Island Baptist Association, Send Relief, and local churches like Paradise Park Baptist to provide practical support. The community’s own words tell the impact: “Because of their advocacy, we received practical, tangible support. We continue to come alongside so many people with so many different needs, and we are incredibly grateful for the churches choosing to step in and love this community through practical, tangible support.” This is what the Church looks like when it’s awake and responsive. And HPBC’s disaster relief leadership is committed to helping every church be ready for the next crisis.
Looking Ahead: Preparing Your Church At this year’s HPBC Annual Meeting on Friday morning, Gay and John Williams will lead a breakout to introduce you to “Ready Church.” It’s a process to prepare your church to respond when disaster strikes—practical steps, partnerships to build now, resources to have in place, and how to coordinate with HPBC Disaster Relief.
Whether your church is in a high-risk area or simply wants to be prepared, this session will equip you and your leaders to be the advocates and responders who make a real difference in a crisis.
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something to
Collegiate Focus
Celebrate
BCM Welcome Week By Julia Haggard
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uring the last week of August, University of Hawaiʻi (UH) Mānoa and UH Hilo welcomed thousands of students as they kicked off the Fall 2026 semester. Baptist Collegiate Ministries (BCM) at both campuses spent the week engaging with college students through Campus Life events as well as other outreach initiatives. These included handing out Starbucks coffee, hosting a free pop-up thrift shop, and conducting street-style interviews with students. In the evenings, BCM hosted events such as Line Dancing, Karaoke Night, and Glow Games. Many Hawaiʻi Pacific Baptist Convention (HPBC) churches from Oʻahu and Hawaiʻi Island partnered with BCM throughout the week, providing dinners and helping create welcoming spaces where students could connect, build relationships, and experience Christian community. While students settled into the semester, people across the islands began to feel the effects of Hurricane Lala. Puʻu Kahea Conference Center sustained significant damage from the storm. On August 22, BCM Oʻahu partnered with a group of students from Louisiana Tech to spend the day serving at Puʻu Kahea. Together, they cleared debris, removed
fallen trees, and dismantled a tent that had been destroyed during the hurricane. Through these outreach initiatives and events, students were cared for, meaningful connections were formed, and the Gospel was shared. None of this would have been possible without the partnership and support of HPBC churches who joined us in serving students and providing meals throughout the week. Please join us in praying for the students who do not yet have a relationship with Jesus and who may be open to hearing and receiving the truth of the Gospel. Pray also for the students who already have a relationship with Jesus as they explore what it means to deepen their faith and grow in community. We are grateful for every church, volunteer, and student who made the start of our Fall 2026 semester possible.
Top left: BCM Welcome Week O‘ahu Top right: BCM O’ahu and Louisiana Tech serve at Pu’u Kahea Conference Center Bottom: BCM Hilo
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When Doors Open: A Partnership that Welcomed the World
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or years, International Baptist Ministries’ Big Giveaway has been something of a lifeline for international students arriving in Hawaiʻi. Far from home, often with limited resources, they arrive on campus needing the basics (cookware, bedding, household items) and, more importantly, they need to know they’re not alone. The Big Giveaway has always provided both practical help and a door into community.
Giveaway, and suddenly, there was room. But it didn’t stop there. HPBC churches on Oahu responded to the call. Donations poured in ... household items from congregations all over our islands, people giving so that students they’d never met could start their new chapter in Hawaii feeling cared for.
The impact was immediate and visible.
But lately, that door was getting crowded. International Baptist Ministries’ building near UH Mānoa was bursting. Students were showing up, waiting in lines, and sometimes leaving without what they came for. The physical space had become the bottleneck. How do you welcome the world when your building can only hold so many?
Students from over twenty countries walked through those doors: Afghanistan, Australia, Bangladesh, Burma, China, Hong Kong, India, Iran, Japan, South Korea, Micronesia, Nepal, Nigeria, Papua New Guinea, Philippines, Taiwan, Tuvalu, the UK, and Vanuatu. They didn’t just get household items. They experienced something deeper—they discovered that the Church in Hawaiʻi sees them, welcomes them, and shows up for them in tangible ways.
Then something beautiful happened ...
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the kind of thing that makes HPBC what it is. University Avenue Baptist Church didn’t just offer sympathy. They opened their doors. Their building became the new home for the Big
Photo: International Baptist Ministries’ Big Giveaway at University Avenue Baptist Church with household items, warmth, and welcome for international students from across the globe arriving in Hawaii, far from home. Photo Credit: UABC’s Pastor Shane Tanigawa
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God’s Masterpiece:
130 Women Discover Their Purpose By Gay Williams
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early 130 women gathered on Saturday, September 12, carrying the questions many of us wrestle with: Who am I really? What is God calling me to do? Does my life matter? These questions didn’t come with easy answers. They came with longing. The S.H.E. Women’s Retreat was built on a single conviction drawn from Ephesians 2:10: that each woman is God’s masterpiece— created intentionally, equipped uniquely, and designed for the good works He has prepared. But knowing that in your head and believing it in your heart are two different things. That’s where the retreat became a meeting place. Denise Matthews of Gateway Seminary didn’t offer platitudes. She offered biblical grounding— calling women to recognize and embrace God’s purpose for their lives with seriousness and courage. A panel featuring Lengsze Ear, Denise Matthews, and Phyllis
Unebasami didn’t just talk about living as God’s workmanship in everyday life. They modeled it— sharing how a teacher, a seminary professor, a missionary leader each discovered that their calling wasn’t limited to some special spiritual category. It was embedded in who they are, where they are, right now. Breakout sessions led women to go deeper into God’s Word. “Discipleship Contextualized” helped them imagine how discipleship looks in their own communities. “Creative Masterpiece” invited them to see their gifts as expressions of God’s artistry. “Luminous Renewal” offered spiritual refreshment for weary hearts. Malama Christian Fellowship and the BCM Worship Team led worship that was honest and reflective—the kind of corporate praise where 130 women could encounter God together. But the retreat didn’t end on Saturday. Sunday evening, women gathered again at Nuʻuanu Baptist Church for dinner. Denise Matthews shared her personal testimony— not the polished version, but her
Malama Christian Fellowship Leading Worship
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story. And as the women listened and ate together, something shifted. Her journey became a mirror. This is what it looks like to live as God’s masterpiece. This is what faithfulness looks like in a real life, with real struggles and real joy. As they left, the message was no longer abstract. Each woman walked away knowing: I am God’s workmanship. I am not accidental. The good works God prepared for me are waiting—in my home, my job, my church, my neighborhood. I am uniquely created and equipped to reflect His love. That’s not just a retreat. That’s a woman recognizing herself as God’s masterpiece and stepping into it.
something to
Celebrate
Oahu Baptist Network
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Youth Camp
his year’s OBN youth camp, held in July 2026, at Pu’u Kahea, included 121 students and 33 volunteers from 22 churches. Pastor Zeke Tomaselli of Waiakea Uka Bible Church served as the camp preacher. His focus was on using God’s Word to equip students for spiritual battle. Pastor Jeff Mullis of Olivet Baptist provides primary leadership for the camp, with support from many Oahu Baptist student leaders.
Equipping students for spiritual battle.”
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! ou y k n a Th
to Our Hawaii Baptist Foundation for Sponsoring Friday’s Lunch at Our Annual Meeting.
T
he Hawaii Baptist Foundation (HBF) is a nonprofit organization that manages investments and endowment funds for Southern Baptist churches, ministries, and institutions across the Hawaii Pacific region. It is an entity of the Hawaii Pacific Baptist Convention. The HBF helps churches grow their financial resources through three key areas: investments, planned giving, and financial grants. For example, if a church has money in the bank or tied up in low-interest CDs, the foundation offers investment options that have historically earned around 10% annually, with flexible access to funds when needed. For church members interested in estate planning, HBF provides education and guidance on how planned giving
can support ministry work for generations. In addition, HBF offers grants to assist churches, ministries, and ministers with short-term financial needs. Through these services, HBF equips churches to be better stewards of their resources and to invest in God’s kingdom work. For more information, contact: info@hawaiibaptistfoundation.com or call (808) 973-1111.
Waterhouse Biblical Counseling Conference
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hether it’s Bible study, apologetics, counseling, marriage, theology, leadership, church health, parenting, or evangelism, the Alec & Belle Waterhouse Lecture Series has provided high-quality, biblically grounded events to Hawai’i Baptists and other believers for 25 years. There are many ways to access the opportunities and events through the Waterhouse Lecture Series, such as: ■ Past conferences are available to view online on their website. ■ They help churches and other ministries bring in speakers for their events. ■ They partner with churches and other ministries to host events that meet specific needs identified by those ministries. ■ Waterhouse relies largely on volunteers for their events that come from different churches. ■ Other than the marriage conferences, there is no cost to attend events.
Most recently, the series hosted the Biblical Counseling Conference on September 25-26, 2026, at Waialae Baptist Church. If you want more information or want to see what opportunities and events are available, visit their website at waialaebaptist.org/abwls or contact them at info@ waterhouselecture.org or 808-732-5561. The Waterhouse Lecture Series is a ministry of Wai‘alae Baptist Church. It is funded through the estate of Alec and Belle Waterhouse.
Biblical Counseling Conference Speaker Paula Higuchi
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Annual Meeting SPEAKERS Shane Pruitt Calling the Next Generation Forward Shane Pruitt, National Next Gen Director for the North American Mission Board (NAMB), has spent over 20 years in ministry as a church planter, pastor, and denominational leader. As a traveling evangelist and Bible teacher, he speaks to over 100,000 people annually about the good news of Jesus Christ. Shane is the author of 9 Common Lies Christians Believe and Calling Out the Called, and co-host of The Gensend Podcast. He and his wife Kasi have five children and reside in Texas. At the 2026 Annual Meeting, Shane will challenge Hawaii Pacific Baptist students and young adults to step forward, share the gospel boldly, and live wholeheartedly for Christ—calling an entire generation to make His glory known.
Adam Groza, Ph.D. Equipping the Next Generation to Defend Their Faith Adam Groza is president of Gateway Seminary and professor of philosophy of religion. He has taught at California Baptist University, Tarleton State University, Scarborough College, and Korea Baptist Theological Seminary. Adam is co-author with J.P. Moreland of Unraveling Philosophy and Faith Wins: Overcoming a Crisis of Belief. He and his wife, Holly, have four children: Cosette, Charlie, Christian, and Cate. At the Annual Meeting, Adam will equip Hawaii Pacific Baptists with the intellectual tools to think clearly about their faith and defend the gospel in a skeptical world—preparing the next generation to answer hard questions with confidence.
Dr. Jeff Iorg Calling the Established Generation to Lead On Dr. Jeff Iorg is president and CEO of the Southern Baptist Convention’s Executive Committee and president emeritus of Gateway Seminary. He served as Executive Director of the Northwest Baptist Convention, founding pastor of Greater Gresham Baptist Church in Oregon, and staff pastor in both Missouri and Texas. Dr. Iorg is the author of six books, including The Painful Side of Leadership, The Character of Leadership, and Unscripted, along with numerous articles and curriculum materials. He holds degrees from Hardin Simmons University, Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary, and Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary. He and his wife Ann have three adult children. At the Annual Meeting, Dr. Iorg will challenge Hawaii Pacific Baptist leaders not to step back from the work. He will call the seasoned generation to embrace their role in reaching the next generation, modeling what a lifelong commitment to Christ looks like, and refusing to surrender their calling.
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Annual Meeting SCHEDULE SESSION 1 ⬤ THURSDAY EVENING November 19, 2026 4-6 p.m. Next Gen Pre-Party 6:00 p.m. Registration & refreshments 7:00 p.m. Call to Order 7:05 p.m. Worship 7:20 p.m. Welcome and Announcements 7:25 p.m. Invocation 7:30 p.m. Credentials & Resolutions Report 7:40 p.m. Intro of New Pastors, Workers, and guests 7:50 p.m. Recognition of Pacific and Asia guests 7:55 p.m. Scripture Reading 8:00 p.m. Convention Message (Shane Pruitt) 8:30 p.m. Closing Worship 8:40 p.m. Adjournment/Benediction 8:45 p.m. Fellowship and Refreshments
SESSION 3 ⬤ FRIDAY AFTERNOON November 20, 2026 2:00 p.m Call to Order 2:05 p.m. Invocation 2:10 p.m. President’s Address (Shane Tanigawa) 2:25 p.m. Credentials & Resolutions Report 2:30 p.m. Convention Arrangements Committee & Order of Business Report 2:35 p.m. Executive Board Reports & Recommendations 2:50 p.m. New Business 3:20 p.m. Committee on Committees & Board Nominations 3:50 p.m. Elections of New Officers Introduction of New Officers 3:55 p.m. Adjournment/Benediction
SESSION 2 ⬤ FRIDAY MORNING November 20, 2026 7:30 a.m. Registration and Continental breakfast 8:00 a.m. Call to Order/Announcements 8:05 a.m. Worship 8:20 a.m. Invocation 8:25 a.m. Greetings from Agencies 9:00 a.m. Scripture Reading 9:05 a.m. Convention Message (Adam Groza) 9:35 a.m. HPBC Staff Report (Craig Webb) 10:05 a.m. Adjournment/Benediction 10:10 a.m. Break 10:45 a.m. Breakout Sessions ◉ Lifeway’s Groups expert, Ken Braddy, on a new discipleship tool for your church ◉ NAMB’s Women’s Evangelism leading voice, Catherine Renfro, just for women on sharing your faith where you are ◉ An IMB team led by Chris Martin on how your church connects to the mission field ◉ HPBC Disaster Relief co-directors John and Gay Williams - Ready Church. How to get your church ready to serve your community in the next disaster. 12:00 p.m. Lunch: Sponsored by the Hawaii Baptist Foundation
SESSION 4 ⬤ FRIDAY EVENING November 20, 2026 6:00 p.m. Registration 6:30 p.m. Call to Order/Announcements 6:35 p.m. Worship 6:50 p.m. Invocation 6:55 p.m. Acknowledgment of Outgoing Officers 7:25 p.m. Scripture Reading 7:30 p.m. Convention Message (Jeff Iorg) 8:00 p.m. Credentials Committee Report 8:05 p.m. Adjournment/Benediction 8:10 p.m. Closing Worship 8:15 p.m. Fellowship and Refreshments
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