May/June 2011

GOD MOMENT | A NEW DECADE | GENEROUSLY SERVING | “Z” BIG STEP

SMALL STEPS, BIG CHANGES Page 41

Free VOL. 20

MAY| JUNE 2011

EDITOR’S NOTE

Dear ‘Ohana: Just the other day, my eight-month-old grandson, Evan, began to stand gingerly with the help of his mommy and daddy. Before we know it, he’ll have taken his first steps.

In this issue of Life at its Best magazine, we’ll be looking at ways we can take “small steps” to create long-lasting changes to further the Kingdom of God. It all begins with being obedient to the little things God asks us to do — an act of kindness, an encouraging word, a service to others or a step of faith. Some of the highlights of this issue include stories of how our congregation members— the owners of Boots & Kimo’s Homestyle Kitchen and the owners of zpizza— integrate their faith in the restaurant world. There is also a feature on this year’s Youth Performing Arts Center musical, “Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat,” and previews of our upcoming “Share da Aloha” event and our annual “Spirit of Aloha” celebration.

Join me as we learn how these “small steps” can lead to great changes.

Taking a step of faith,

2 Life@itsBest MAY | JUNE 2011

NEW HOPE HONOLULU e d i t o r i a l editor-in-chief

Wayne Cordeiro Kelli Shiroma c o p y e d i t o r s Clairelane Yoshioka, Rauna May, Donna Mae Katsura, Chelsea Tyson and Robin Hart

mayjune

managing editor

d e s i g n

|

speaking schedule

p r o d u c t i o n

Larry Ganiron Larry Ganiron g r a p h i c d e s i g n e r s Larry Ganiron and Keone Moore d e s i g n e d i t o r s Gaston Souza, Eun Ho Lee and Levi McCallum p h o t o c o o r d i n at o r T.Y. c o v e r p h o t o Laura Aguon production manager

c r e at i v e a r t d i r e c t o r

p h o t o g r a p h e r s

Larry Ganiron, Derrek Miyahara, Gaston Souza, T.Y., Charisa Gum, Chad Brownstein, Laura Aguon, Keone Moore, Richard Dang, Jed Adan, Justin Smith, Alex Michel, Peter Thourson, NH Manoa, LMOW, PRCC and NHYPAC w r i t e r s

Wayne Cordeiro, Elwin Ahu, Kelli Shiroma, Kyle Lum, Chelsea Tyson, Reyna Miyashiro, Mia Burke, Susie Lam, Pat Takenishi, Carolyn Kahakelii and Neyda Guzman m a r k e t i n g

Kelli Shiroma

kellishiroma@eNewHope.org 808.842.4242 ext. 210

m 1 Elwin Ahu 7 & 8 Wayne Cordeiro Happy Mother’s Day! 14 & 15 Elwin Ahu 21 & 22 Wayne Cordeiro 28 & 29 Elwin Ahu

j 4 & 5 Elwin Ahu 11 & 12 Elwin Ahu 18 & 19 Elwin Ahu Happy Father’s Day! 25 & 26 Elwin Ahu

N E W H O P E O `A H U 290 Sand Island Access Road Honolulu, HI 96819 808.842.4242 | eNewHope.org

Life@itsBest MAY | JUNE 2011

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CONTENTS MAY | JUNE2011 | VOL.20

FEATURE ARTICLE MINISTRY ARTICLE GOD MOMENT PHOTO STORY FEATURE ARTICLE MOVIE REVIEW FEATURE ARTICLE FEATURE ARTICLE EVENT PREVIEW FEATURE ARTICLE COMMUNITY CONNECTION EVENT PREVIEW FEATURE ARTICLE

06 08 10 14 20 24 28 36 38 42 44 46 50

The Small Beginnings of Big Changes Safety First All the Right Moves Faith in the Marketplace Boots & Kimo’s: Generously Serving “Soul Surfer” Creative Design Ministry: Stemming from the Heart Taking “Z” Big Step “Share da Aloha” A HUGE Impact NHMOW: Mobile Helping The Dawn of a New Decade The End of an Era

38

Share

Da

Aloha

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4 Life@itsBest MAY | JUNE 2011

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The Small Beginnings of Big Changes byWAYNE COR DE I R O photog ra phy by LAUR A AGUON

H

ow many of you believe that our greatest days lie yet ahead of us?

Yes, we’ve always got to think that way because our greatest potential is that which is ahead of us. It motivates us into the future.

Mustard Seed Beginnings

You know how God’s work begins?

It’s not in big, radical ways, but in small beginnings. Every one of us can be a part of the Kingdom of God if we realize that it starts in small ways, not big ways.

It’s the mustard seed beginning because everybody can be a part of the Kingdom of God — not just those of us who can sing or dance and have large talents and large gifts, but every single one of us.

So, how then, can we take all that God has taught us and begin to parcel it out so that the Kingdom of God can make a difference in many more lives? I’ve got three ways that we can see the Kingdom of God do great things in our midst.

Some may say, “Well, I can’t dance, I can’t sing, I can’t preach …” No, no, everyone can be a part of this. In this next season, let’s start with small beginnings.

Small Gestures

Isn’t it true that our lives can be bolstered by somebody giving us one word or they can be devastated by someone giving us one word? It’s the small things.

“Anxiety in a man’s heart weighs it down, but a good word makes it glad” (Prov.

12:25).

It’s not a good treat, nor a good proclamation, nor a good speech, but a good word. It’s those little things that make the Kingdom of God. I want to encourage you to please remember that the Kingdom of God is entered in small ways: small gestures, small words of encouragement, a little applause.

In Matthew, John the Baptist was in the river baptizing all of these people who had come out of sin. Jesus—the sinless Son of God—walked into the river. John looked up and recognized Him as the Lamb of God, 6 Life@itsBest MAY | JUNE 2011

and He was coming to be baptized by John.

John tried to prevent Him by saying, “I shouldn’t be baptizing You; You should be baptizing me.” Do you know what Jesus’ answer was?

“But Jesus answering said to him, ‘Permit it at this time; for in this way it is fitting for us to fulfill all righteousness.’ Then he permitted Him” (Matt. 3:15).

Something that God requires happens in the small things. Some of these things seem small to us, but just do them because they are huge in the Kingdom.

Small Involvements

Small involvements are what build the Kingdom.

It’s not large acts, but small acts. God will open up an opportunity and it is an obvious need — set up a chair, pick up a piece of paper. It’s just these little things, these small involvements.

We see this in the Good Samaritan. It was an obvious need — a man needed help. Two of three people scooted around this man, thinking, “Somebody else should help him.” But the third one went by and he was a Samaritan. He said, “I’m not going to wait for another person trained in these things. There is a need; I’m just going to jump in.”

Jesus tells the story and then He summarizes at the end what the meaning is: “‘Which of these three do you think proved to be a neighbor to the man who fell into the robbers’ hands?’

And he said, ‘The one who showed mercy toward him.’

Then Jesus said to him, ‘Go and do the same’” (Luke 10:36-37).

Small Invitations

You would be surprised at the amount of people who are waiting for a small invitation. Did you know that most of the disciples came to Christ by somebody inviting them?

“One of the two who heard John speak and followed Him, was Andrew, Simon Peter’s brother. He found first his own brother Simon and said to him, ‘We have found the Messiah’ [and] brought him to Jesus … the next day He […] found Philip. And Jesus said to him, ‘Follow Me.’ Philip found Nathanael and said to him, ‘We have found […] Jesus of Nazareth, the son of Joseph’” (John 1:4045).

Can you see how they were just inviting each other?

It is small invitations — one after the other. The Kingdom of God is built with small invitations.

You see, the Kingdom of God starts in small ways — small gestures, small involvements, small invitations.

God delights in that and that’s why Zechariah 4:10 says, “Do not despise these small beginnings, for the Lord rejoices to see the work begin …”

Indeed, our greatest days are still ahead of us. Let’s be people of mustard seed faith.

Life@itsBest MAY | JUNE 2011

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MINISTRY ARTICLE

SAFETY FIRST byK Y L E L U M

8 Life@itsBest MAY | JUNE 2011

pho t og ra phy by DE R R E K M I YAH AR A & R I CH AR D DANG

Y

ou have probably seen men and women around the New Hope Honolulu campus in blue, HPD-approved uniforms driving cars and trucks with flashing lights, equipped with safety equipment and radios. They are part of New Hope’s Safety Team (formerly known as the Parking and Safety Team), a small group of 15 individuals dedicated to making the Farrington High School (FHS) campus a safe and secure place to worship.

These volunteers have a sense of commitment to ensure a safe church experience in the midst of some of the most chaotic traffic that rivals the holiday season at the malls!

The team is currently led by Jace Silva, who first volunteered as part of the original Parking and Safety Team in 1998. His weekends are filled with tasks such as keeping cars flowing in and out of the school’s campus and overseeing security for the two off-site parking lots at Kalakaua Middle School (KMS) and at Honolulu Community College (HCC).

Thirteen years ago, members of the original Parking and Safety Team were often seen around the New Hope Honolulu campus riding bicycles equipped with lights and using radios to communicate. They were instructed on basic traffic control techniques and security observation and were also mentored in devotions and prayer.

Security and patrol continue to be the Safety Team’s primary goal, while traffic and parking control is a secondary responsibility. Safety Team members conduct mobile (driving) patrols on the FHS campus, as well as on the campuses at KMS and HCC. In addition, they supplement the fixed (posted) Safety Team volunteers stationed on-site at KMS and HCC. Safety Team members are also available to assist with EMS/fire emergencies and lockouts. All members of the Safety Team are New Hope volunteers; the team’s advisor is a 20-plus year HPD officer.

Many of the original team members continue to volunteer today. Cars and trucks, however, now replace their bicycles; team members use their personal vehicles, equipped with lights and radios, to do their patrols. Most of the uniforms, radios and equipment are purchased from personal funds of the team leaders.

When asked why he decided to volunteer and stay with the New Hope Safety Team, Silva describes it as a commitment to service.

“We were taught to do it with all of our hearts,” he says. “We would stand out in pouring rain—in some of the darkest and loneliest corners of the campus—and hold our posts. We would arrive early in the dark of morning and would leave after everyone went home. All this was to make sure our guests would feel safe and have a good worship experience.”

When asked what the New Hope Honolulu congregation could do to aid the Safety Team, Silva is quick to reply.

“Park off-site,” he encourages others. “There’s lots of parking at HCC and KMS. You get to ride air-conditioned shuttles with safe drivers, and most of all, you will avoid the occasional FHS ‘gridlock’ that is unavoidable on the weekends. Plus, this allows us to serve first-timers coming to New Hope [Honolulu] who aren’t familiar with the off-site parking and come to FHS by default. And of course, we would love to have more volunteers!”

If you are interested in joining the New Hope Safety Team, it does require a background check and a few specialized details.

Contact Jace Silva at jacesilva@eNewHope.org for information and requirements.

Life@itsBest MAY | JUNE 2011

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GOD MOMENT

ALL)THE)RIGHT)MOVES byK E L L I S H I R OM A

photog ra phy by ALE X M I CH E L & LAR RY GANI R ON

“When you take one step toward God, He’ll take 1,000 steps toward you.” – SERENA MICHEL

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B

efore May 2009, 13-year-old Serena Michel thought she had her life figured out. A middle schooler living in Los Angeles, Calif., she assumed she would attend high school with her close friends. Michel even planned to pursue a career in forensics when she attended college. But everything changed one morning when Michel’s father, Pastor Alex, told her that their family would be moving to Hawaii in July.

“Pastor Wayne [Cordeiro] told my dad that he would like to have him on staff at New Hope,” Michel remembers. “My dad prayed about it and felt it was God’s will.”

Like any other teen, Michel was shocked and saddened by the news. Moving to Hawaii meant leaving everyone and everything she knew.

“I thought my life was over,” Michel reflects. “When I heard I was moving, I was like, ‘I won’t even get to go to high school here with all my friends.’ I [also] loved where my church was, and I would go to their summer camps every year.”

Michel remembers being nervous about her new life in Hawaii, but a week after her family moved, she and her younger sister attended an event hosted by “OG (‘One Generation’),” New Hope Oahu’s Youth Ministries.

“My dad knew Pastor Micah [Simpson] and he told us that they were going to have an ‘Around the Island’ day for the youth

connecting with others and going to states for the first time I ever paddled.”

Even though paddling season was over at Roosevelt High School, Michel loved the sport so much that she wanted to continue.

After praying about whether to start another sport in the spring at her high school or to paddle for New Hope, Michel felt God was calling her to join the church’s paddling team.

“I really feel God’s presence whenever I paddle on the water, and [getting to] fellowship with the other teams is really fun,” she says.

Learning the fundamentals of paddling were just the basic lessons Michel gleaned through the sport. She knew that God used paddling to teach her life lessons as well.

“God reminded me of how He asked Peter to walk on the water,” Michel says, emphasizing the necessity to focus solely on God. “He just asked him [Peter] to look ahead and focus, and he would get through.”

Ever since her family moved to Hawaii, Michel sees how God has been working in her life, from helping her to make new friends through “OG” to revealing her calling as a youth pastor. Not only has Michel been able to shine God’s light through paddling, but also in her high school’s Christian club.

Michel spoke in front of the students for the first time on Feb. 10, giving a message on Jesus’ death on the cross. This was a monumental event for Michel, who had never spoken on God’s behalf in front of her classmates before.

“I never thought God would use me in my high school,” she says, “but I really felt like God wanted me to speak [in February].

I was actually comfortable with speaking [in my classes], but to start speaking for God was a big step.”

As she reflects on her time in Hawaii thus far—just short of two years—Michel realizes how her family ’s move was ultimately the catalyst for big changes in her own life.

“There is a time and place for everything and it’s all perfect in the end,” she says. “No matter what happens in life, God is always there and He knows what He’s doing.”

“God’s just shown me that it’s not about what I want; it’s about what He wants.” – SERENA MICHEL group and we went,” Michel says. “They welcomed us with open arms, and from then, we got involved in the youth ministry.”

Building relationships with fellow brothers and sisters in Christ initially through “OG” boosted Michel’s confidence, as she also made lots of friends when she started her freshman year last August at Roosevelt High School. When the school year started, Michel tried out for the volleyball team, but did not make it. Undaunted, she decided to try a different sport.

“I knew I wanted to try something different that only existed in Hawaii, or mostly in Hawaii,” she says. “I saw paddling [listed] and I wanted to try something new.”

Although she had never paddled in her life, Michel attended tryouts and was welcomed warmly by the coaches. Diligent and persistent, she committed to paddling and enjoyed her first season, which lasted from last October to February.

“I was put as a freshman on girls’ varsity and varsity mixed,” she says. “It was such a great experience — meeting new people,

Life@itsBest MAY | JUNE 2011

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DAILY DEVOTIONS

S

O

title

JUDGE AND JURY

title

date

May 21st Devotion

date

“But do you suppose this, O man, when you pass judgment on those who practice such things and do the same yourself, that you will escape the judgment of God? Or do you think lightly of the riches of His kindness and tolerance and patience, not knowing that the kindness of God leads you to repentance?”

(Rom. 2:3-4).

“If you falter in times of trouble, how small is your strength!” (Prov.

24:10).

O

Times of trouble are the defining moments of a person’s life.

We all do well in fair weather, but when the chips are down, when the storms rage and when you’re at the crossroads, that’s when a decision has to be made and whichever way it goes, there will be unhappy people.

These are the times when my strength cannot be small.

Everything is riding on moments like these.

One of the main components of a good leader is that he is a problem solver. I have to solve problems in ways that create something better out of a mess. People are waiting for someone to step up to the plate to find the answer and make the decision, but they don’t guarantee you that they will like you for doing that.

The Pharisees were like that, weren’t they — quick to judge and condemn, even though they carried the same sin hidden in their hearts. And I think it’s fair to say that we all have “a little Pharisee” in all of us, just waiting to grow up.

A

P

It was through His grace that I stand as a new creation today. It was through His grace that the old has washed away and all things have become new. It was through His grace that I have been given a second … make that a third … a fourth chance in life (and counting). A wise man once told me, “Now, don’t take His grace for granted.” I do so, however, when I pre-judge others, when I forget that I’m not called to be judge and jury and when I assume the worst based on pre-conceived notions, rather than taking the time to understand and offer a heart of grace. God is the ultimate Judge and He will render to each person according to his deeds. My heart needs to trust in that and believe in God’s best for the lives of others.

Father, thank You for Your continued reminders that shape and mold my heart to be more and more like Yours.

Forgive me for those times that I assumed the role of judging others and usurped Your position as the ultimate Judge. Create in me a clean heart, O God. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

byELW IN AHU 12 Life@itsBest MAY | JUNE 2011

I don’t like times like these. But a leader is called to make these choices. They must absorb the repercussion. He or she needs to bear the brunt of the angst. I guess that is why I don’t like making those decisions.

A leader has to have resilience and the patience to endure being misunderstood until others understand. For me, there have been years when others have had misperceptions of the ministry or me. I am sure it was something I said, a slip of the tongue, a misplaced attempt at humor and an “aside” mentioned that was taken as a judgment against someone else.

Before we are too quick to point the faults out in another, we had better take a closer look at who we are. Many times we’ll discover that the largest obstacle that obstructs reconciliation is our own stubbornness or hardened heart. And with a hardened heart, how we quickly forget the “riches of His kindness and tolerance and patience” God graciously gifted to us. It was through His kindness that brought us to repentance; shouldn’t we offer others the same?

A

June 2nd Devotion

S

Paul had some pretty strong words for those who chose to occupy both seats in the house of justice, as judge and jury. It seemed easier to point the finger of condemnation toward others, rather than offering a heart of grace and understanding. And by doing so, they themselves stood judged and condemned by the ultimate Judge.

Paul’s cautious admonition to the saints in Rome should sound an alarm in our hearts today. There probably have been more battles fought, lawsuits filed, arguments started and relationships ripped apart simply due to a “misunderstanding” or a wrong assumption by one who was too quick to judge and condemn, rather than taking the time to understand.

DON’T FALTER

But I must live with that and I have to just keep pressing forward. I hate living with the consequences of my own mistakes or with the misperceptions and judgments of others.

But I don’t have a choice on this one.

P

Lord Jesus, thank You for giving me strength to carry on. You did, and so can I. Sometimes I get awfully tired of absorbing stuff, but please help me to not react and avenge myself. I get tempted to use my authority to get rid of those bugging me, but that wouldn’t help. I will be a problem solver with Your strength and endurance. Amen! So be it.

byWAYNE CORDEIRO

LifeJournal.me is an online journaling website launched by New Hope Life Resources last September. Go to http://lifejournal.me and create your free account today!

“Aloha Aina Day” byCHELSE A TYSO N pho t o g ra phy by J U S T I N S M I T H & L A R RY G ANI R ON

On March 19, New Hope O`ahu (NHO) participated in its first annual “Aloha Aina Day” for Farrington High School (FHS).

This fundraiser, headed by Rene Mansho of Schnitzer Steel—the project coordinator for all “Aloha Aina Day” outreaches throughout the island—is a program that utilizes recycling to raise money for Hawaii’s schools. Through partnering with the State and non-profit organizations, NHO was able to participate in this drive to collect recyclable or charitable items like clothes, computers and phone books. All proceeds made from the recycling went back to the schools.

Around 250 NHO members helped collect and sort various recyclables during “Aloha Aina Day.” Many more members also participated by contributing various recyclable goods, from bottles and cans to cooking oil and scrap metal. Blankets and comforters were also collected to help relief efforts for the earthquake and tsunami victims in Japan.

In conjunction with the “Aloha Aina Day” event, NHO members also helped clean the Farrington campus, the street in front of Farrington, North King Street, Houghtailing Street, and the Kalakaua Middle School

campus.

Despite the wind and scattered showers that day, the volunteers continued diligently cleaning, landscaping, sorting the recyclables and even painting sidewalks and walls. People wearing their “Think Global, Act Local” T-shirts could be seen all over the campus, demonstrating what “doing church as a team” looked like.

While there is not another NHO cleanup scheduled yet, there will be more events to reach out to the community, according to Ryan Tsuji, New Hope Honolulu extension director. These opportunities are beneficial to all who participate — volunteers not only get the gratification of knowing they are making a difference in the local community, but it is also a great way to build relationships in the New Hope ‘ohana.

“It’s through serving and giving back that real relationships are built,” Tsuji says. “We want people to realize it’s not necessarily just coming to do work for the school [FHS].

While that’s good, we want to make sure that people are meeting other people in the church and building relationships with other members because that’s when you feel like you belong in New Hope.”

Life@itsBest MAY | JUNE 2011

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Faith IN THE

MARKETPLACE pho t o g ra phy by LAR RY GANI R ON & P E T E R T H OUR S ON

You might see these people serving faithfully at New Hope Honolulu on the weekends, but what does their serving look like during the workweek? These members of our New Hope ‘ohana share how they shine as a light for Christ in their workplace and how they strive to glorify Him both inside and outside of church.

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MAURA TANAKA, Sound Team/Nepal Missions/Office Ministry/Outreach Ministry “I work at Diagnostic Laboratory Services as a technician.

Although I cannot proselytize on the job, I try to ‘shine Jesus’ by living out my faith, not compromising on integrity, being encouraging, watching the words of my mouth and looking for every opportunity to share testimonies of God’s faithfulness and goodness. Everyone knows that I am a Christian, so I need to be a good ambassador. People see the cross I wear, my ‘WWJD’ lanyard and see me reading the Bible … that keeps me accountable. I like to think that my awe of the Lord overrides any temptation to ‘get in the flesh’ in the marketplace.”

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AIMEE SHINSATO, Resources/Community Care Ministry “Before going to work, I spend time with God through my daily devotions. I thank Him for bringing me to Ron’s Performance Center and for allowing me to serve Him there. As I draw near to Him, He is faithful to renew my mind and transform my heart to be more like Jesus’. There is nothing I can do on my own to bring God the glory He deserves; I just give God my best and trust that His grace is truly sufficient. I pray that God would allow those around me to see His Spirit living in me and that His love and goodness would overflow from my life to touch their hearts.”

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DONALD AND DEBBY VINCENT, Transportation Ministry “As a truck driver, this business is a place with lots of unsaved people and they use language that you wouldn’t hear in church!

But we’re able to share our faith by just being good examples — we watch what we say and do and make sure it’s what Jesus would want from us. Serving on the weekends and being involved in ministry during the week keeps us on track!”

– Donald “Being involved in what is traditionally a male-oriented work environment—driving 18-wheel big, rig trucks—I sometimes have to see and hear things that most women would not have to deal with. God has made me able to share my faith, not just with my truck—covered with New Hope logos—but also by showing patience and kindness to difficult people.” – Debby

Life@itsBest MAY | JUNE 2011

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Pac Rim and the Ukulele: Changing the World byMIA BURK E

pho t o g ra phy by PA C I F I C R I M C H R I S T I A N C OL L E G E

It was a grueling 30 hours of travel to Israel from Honolulu. We boarded the chartered bus, weary but expectant, knowing that God was going to do something through each of us. For many on the Pacific Rim Christian College (PRCC) tour of Israel from Feb. 12-23, it was our first time to the Holy Land. For others, it was a chance to return, but for all, it was an opportunity to delve deeper into the roots of our faith, as well as share the “Aloha Spirit” with those in the Middle East.

In addition to a pilgrimage to the Holy Land, Pac Rim took the opportunity to connect with Paul Moore and “Ukuleles for Peace,” a program that Paul and his wife, Daphna, started seven years ago.

The couple met the Pac Rim team in Tiberius and shared the heart behind the program.

“For a long time, we have been watching and living [in] the miserable situation between Israel and the Palestinian Arabs in the area,” Paul says. “We asked ourselves, ‘How can we break the distrust between the societies? How can we—as simple citizens— create more opportunities for Jews and Arabs to meet and be involved with one another in our daily lives?’”

Paul regularly performs the ukulele for both Arab and Jewish children, and one day, this gave him an idea: to combine his love for the ukulele and his experience with kids to create “Ukuleles for Peace.” The goal is to bring Jewish and Arab children together to play the ukulele and other instruments in an orchestra. Paul works with the students weekly in their schools and then brings them together for performances. The hope is that playing together will create further opportunities for communal activities and that parents and community members will get involved in the program.

When the Pac Rim team met the children involved with “Ukuleles for Peace,” there was an instant bond through the ukulele. The “Ukuleles for Peace” group was divided into younger and older members and each group performed a selection of songs. In return, the Pac Rim members played for the children.

During the second week of the trip, the Pac Rim team returned to

18 Life@itsBest MAY | JUNE 2011

Bethlehem to serve at the Arab Disability Center. The first two hours were spent cleaning, performing yard work and servicing broken medical equipment. After the service time, the group was invited to the children’s ward to minister in music. It was amazing to see the faces of the sick children light up when introduced to the small ukulele. Just as with the “Ukuleles for Peace” program, music bridged our cultural differences to let us share the commonality of music and hope.

How interesting that a small, four-stringed instrument brought such a variety of people together, from the Pac Rim team with the Israeli locals to Israelis and Arabs, despite their political, religious and cultural differences. The ukulele ushered in hope and joy to all three groups.

Getting to know the people of Israel was an amazing experience.

Music and the ukulele opened a bridge of understanding between cultures. Being a part of what the Moores are doing gave us a stronger cultural awareness, as well as providing us with a living example about how we can be a part of the peace process, even from here in Hawaii. God is on the move in the Middle East in unexpected ways. It was amazing to see Him at work through the small ukulele, Hawaii and the “Spirit of Aloha.”

ANNOUNCEMENTS

GROWING DEEP, GROWING STRONG

MANAGING FINANCES FOR STUDENTS

“ARE WE LIVING IN THE LAST DAYS?”

YOUTH MINISTRIES SUMMER CAMPS

May 1 & 15, 7:30 a.m.

Farrington High School Library Contact Arlene Iwano, Arlene@eNewHope.org Become a New Hope member by attending this simple two-day membership course. No preregistration needed for this free class taught by Pastor Justin Smith.

Sundays, May 15–June 12, 9 a.m.

Farrington High School Library Contact Paul Nakamura, pnakamura@stfrancishawaii.org As you read about the natural disasters around the world, the unrest in the Middle East and the financial instability, it’s hard not to wonder if we are living in the last days. In this five-week DVD teaching series, Pastor Greg Laurie will explore topics like the Rapture of the Church, the AntiChrist, Armageddon and discuss how these events relate to what is happening today.

WATER BAPTISM

May 13, 5:30 p.m.

Magic Island, Ala Moana Beach Park Contact Russell Luke, 778-1261 or rluke@141hawaii.com Come celebrate with the Lord as we join together for a special Friday evening water baptism with fireworks. Bring your swim wear, a towel and a potluck dish.

SURF MINISTRY

May 21, June 18, 8 a.m.

Kalaeloa Beach Park – Campgrounds area, call for directions Contact Kirk Miyashiro, 396-3380 The Surf Ministry is geared to deliver the Gospel to all who will join us at the beach.

Free surf lessons followed by a message and worship. A 40-ft. swim test is required for those who want lessons. It’s okay to bring your surfboard, but one is not required; we have boards on hand for beginners. The NHO Surf Ministry meets on the third Saturday of every month.

May 22, 9 a.m.

Farrington High School Library Contact Shirley Robinson, sarjaguar@aol.com This class will teach critical life skills for students, covering topics such as cash management, budgeting, the importance of savings and types of savings plans.

Amplify Camp: June 1-4 Thrive Camp: June 8-11 Visit eNewHope.org/og to register or for more summer camp information.

MIDNIGHT PRAYER GROUP

Fridays, 10 p.m.

Farrington High School Contact Grace Lee, 943-0730 Join us on Friday evenings as we intercede in His Spirit, power and strength for our church and for our families. Call Grace for more information.

FUSE (YOUNG ADULTS) MINISTRY

Fridays, 7 p.m.

LEAD Center Contact Wayne Hudson, 741-2173 Come join Fuse every Friday at 7 p.m. at the LEAD Center. Experience powerful worship, a great message and close community.

“WOMEN IN THE WORD”

Tuesdays, 6:30-8:30 p.m.

LEAD Center Contact Susie Lam, newhopewomen@hawaii.rr.com “Women in the Word” will be off the first three weeks of May and resumes on May 24 with a brand-new Bible study on the Book of Psalms.

All women are welcome to join any week and childcare is provided for children ages two and above. The “Women of Hope” Book Club meets the fourth Thursday of each month at Jean Hohn’s home at 6:30 p.m.

This year’s Women’s Retreat will be on September 16-18 at the Makaha Resort and Golf Club, with special guests Lori Salierno and Carol Rischer. For more information, call Lynette Arakawa at 561-2306.

MOVIETHON

June 5, 3 p.m.

LEAD Center Contact Arlene Iwano, 842-4242 ext. 420 Bring your own blankets and mats to enjoy a night of films and fellowship. Movies to be shown include the multi-award winning “Dandelion Dust,” Oscar-nominee “Most” and “Suing the Devil” (to be released in theaters in August). There will be a food court available.

DESIGN

June 5 & 12, 7:30 a.m.

Farrington High School Library Contact Arlene Iwano, Arlene@eNewHope.org This class will help you unwrap who God designed you to be. Discover your spiritual gifts and how you can use those gifts. Prerequisite: You must have previously attended “Growing Deep, Growing Strong.” This class is taught by Pastor Justin Smith.

DEAF AND HARD OF HEARING MINISTRY/SIGN LANGUAGE CLASS

August 12 (12-week introduction class), 6-8 p.m.

Ministry Center (Niihau Room) Contact Loretta McDonald, 947-7640 or ehuandme@juno.com Basic introduction to American Sign Language and Deaf Culture. Class size is limited; registration and fee required in advance.

NUEVA ESPERANZA (NEW HOPE’S SPANISH MINISTRY)

Sundays, 6 p.m.

Dole Middle School Contact Pastor Rauna May, 842-4242 ext. 127 Join our weekly Nueva Esperanza church services at our new location! Dole Middle School is located at 1803 Kamehameha IV Road, Honolulu, 96819.

The Life Planner is designed to prompt you to obedience in the areas of prayer, relationships and life essentials. Make this year count by knowing what’s most important every day!

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Boots and Kimo’s: GENEROU LY SERVING byK EL L I S H I R OM A

pho t o g ra phy by L A R RY GANI R ON

Nestled in the heart of Kailua, Boots & Kimo’s Homestyle Kitchen is popular with locals and tourists alike. In this issue, Life at its Best magazine stops in for a bite at Boots & Kimo’s to catch up with owner Ricky Kiakona, who shares about the restaurant’s background, New Hope connections and his heart to give.

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It’s only 9 a.m. on a sunny March morning, but swarms of people are already lined up outside of Boots & Kimo’s Homestyle Kitchen. This scene is typical for the eatery, according to Ricky Kiakona, one of the restaurant’s owners.

“Sorry, we get really crowded,” Kiakona says apologetically, as he welcomes us inside. “But we thank the Lord everyday!”

Boots & Kimo’s Homestyle Kitchen, owned by Ricky and his brother, Jesse, opened 17 years ago on June 18, 1994.

The fact that Boots & Kimo’s opened on Father’s Day that year was significant to the brothers, who dedicated the restaurant to their father.

“My father passed away in November 1993; he had a brain stem stroke,” Kiakona says. “He had a love of good food and wanted to share it with everyone. Due to his quick and unexpected passing, he was unable to fulfill his dream.”

Ricky remembers pitching the idea of starting a restaurant to his brother the following year, in order to honor their father’s dream.

They knew opening a restaurant was something their father wanted to do and decided to ask their Uncle Kimo for help.

“Uncle Kimo owned a restaurant named ‘Kimo’s Gazebo’ on Maui,” Kiakona says.

“He had the experience with breakfast and the ‘Macadamia Nut Pancake Sauce’ that we are so well known for. He dropped everything in Maui and flew over and that’s how we started.”

The restaurant’s name derived from the Kiakonas’ father—whose nickname was “Boots,” due to the big boots he used to wear as a child—and their Uncle Kimo.

“Homestyle kitchen” refers to the homemade sauces used in all the dishes.

“Everything that we do—from our ‘Hawaiian Style Pulehu Ribs’ to our teriyaki beef plate—are all the sauces we did when we used to go camping,” Kiakona explains.

“Nothing was gotten out of a cookbook.”

Boots and Kimo’s popularity has not affected Kiakona’s generous heart, as he continually strives to “give back” to both the community and his church. While Boots & Kimo’s contributes to community efforts— they recently donated $5,000 to the Kailua Boys and Girls Club—Kiakona also desires to “give back” to volunteers at New Hope Honolulu, where he and his family have

attended for the past 12 years.

“He [Rick] came here and said, ‘I have these gift cards and I want you to give it out to people who serve in the church,’” says Wes Suzawa, a New Hope Honolulu greeter. “‘I’ll give you 20 now and the next time I see you, I’ll give you 20 more.’ He basically said to tell everybody, ‘Thank you for serving.’”

Kiakona knew he could entrust Suzawa and Usher Lisa Besa to carry out this job for him, as he recognized them as New Hope volunteers when they first came to his restaurant. Besa remembers how she

figured out the restaurant had a New Hope connection.

“I was telling Wes, ‘I bet they go to New Hope because there’s a New Hope sticker on the restaurant door!” she says.

“I put the [New Hope] stickers on my [restaurant] door because I want people to know that this is a really great church!”

Kiakona explains.

blessed to be a part of the church.”

True to his word, Suzawa passed out the gift cards to New Hope volunteers in various ministries, including resources, the shuttle drivers, the sound team, ushers and greeters.

While Boots & Kimo’s has been successful, Kiakona maintains the restaurant’s family roots. Although business investors push him to expand the restaurant, he politely but firmly refuses each time.

“I don’t worship money; I worship the Lord,” he says. “To me, family is everything.

If I had opened a lot of locations, I wouldn’t have been able to spend the last eight years with my girls when they were growing up.”

The ‘ohana focus not only applies to how Kiakona feels about his immediate family, but also toward his Boots & Kimo’s staff.

Kiakona strives to take care of his employees, both physically, in terms of health care, and spiritually.

“What I learn in church, I bring back to my employees,” he says. “I find myself more humbled from the lessons and Scriptures that I hear on a weekly basis, and I share it with my staff. I try to utilize what I learn in my day-to-day running of the business. I find it to be a lot more rewarding for me.”

Kiakona’s generosity and his desire to serve God radiates from his heart and is reflected through both his staff and the restaurant’s overall ambience, according to Pastor Elwin Ahu, who recently visited Boots & Kimo’s with his family.

“I love giving. I want them [the volunteers] to know there’s people outside—individuals like us—who care and want to give back for their hard work. When you know people are working for the Lord, nothing is too much.” – RICKY KIAKONA Kiakona told Suzawa that giving out gift cards to New Hope Honolulu volunteers was his way of “giving back” to express his appreciation for those who serve.

“I don’t want to advertise my business; that is not my motive,” Kiakona states emphatically. “These people are helping New Hope, which is our church. Because I’m not physically able to go there and help, I want to do that [give out gift cards]. Setting up the chairs, tents, the stage … that’s a lot of hard work, and I don’t take it for granted. I’m so

“Boots & Kimo’s isn’t just a restaurant,” Ahu says. “It’s a place where one can find rest for the soul. Its atmosphere and its servant-hearted staff reflect the true ‘Fruits of the Spirit’ of love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self control.”

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Understanding Mercy Ships’ Vision byKELLI SHI RO MA

pho t o g ra phy by C H A D B R OW N S T E I N

A team from New Hope O`ahu (NHO) traveled to Sierra Leone, a country in west Africa, from March 20-25 at the invitation of global charity Mercy Ships. The organization, which has operated hospital ships in developing nations since 1978, travels around the world to bring hope and healing to the poor. For the last six years, NHO has helped Moanalua High School put on their “Gift of Hope Charity Concert” with 100 percent of the proceeds donated to Mercy Ships the last three years, making NHO an “anchor church,” or constant supporter for the charity. In return, Mercy Ships invited a NHO team on a “vision trip” so they could see what the charity was doing to change lives in Africa. It was the first time a NHO team traveled to Sierra Leone, according to Pastor Elwin Ahu. “Because of the generosity of New Hope toward their [Mercy Ships’] mission, their home office extended the invitation to us [to go to Africa],” he says. “I thought it would be a great opportunity to see what’s happening there.”

During the time the NHO team spent in Sierra Leone, Mercy Ships gave them an overview of their ministry. Not only did the

of Hope Charity Concert” coordinators.

“Everyone on the ship is a volunteer,” Brownstein says. “Not only are they volunteers; they have to pay per month to be on there [the ship].”

Meeting two of the volunteers in particular—Chief Medical Officer Dr. Gary Parker and Gary Stephens, whose brother founded the Mercy Ships organization—was significant to Laurie Komeiji, the other NHO “Gift of Hope Charity Concert” coordinator.

“Dr. Gary is a UCLA Medical School graduate; as one of the top surgeons in the world, he could have worked anywhere and made a comfortable life for himself and his family,” she says. “He initially signed up for three weeks and his church sponsored him for three weeks […] but he is now in his 24th consecutive year serving with Mercy Ships full time, still being sponsored by his home church and a full-time volunteer.”

The commitment depicted by Mercy Ships’ volunteers was not the only characteristic that stood out to the NHO team, but also the value with which each volunteer was treated.

“He [Gary Stephens] encouraged the volunteers on a personal basis so each felt

“We really saw the Gospel in living color, where you don’t just read about the Scriptures but you see it happening before your eyes. The lame can walk, the blind can see … you see Scripture coming to life.” – PASTOR ELWIN AHU NHO team get to take a tour of the ship, but they also lived on board the ship and visited hospitals and dental clinics.

Several highlights of the trip included seeing the results of these surgeries conducted by Mercy Ships doctors. Members from the NHO team saw how Mercy Ships changed numerous patients’ lives, both physically and spiritually.

“Being able to talk with the patients before their surgery, to see the procedure done and to talk to them after was an amazing story,” Ahu shares. “The highlight, though, of all of that was to see how men and women [from Mercy Ships] are willing to die to themselves for the sake of another.”

Seeing the hearts of the volunteers was definitely a takeaway of the trip, according to Chad Brownstein, one of the NHO “Gift

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appreciated,” Komeiji says. “He is genuine to the core and cared about each crew member and patient that came aboard. He truly is an example of Jesus, who came to serve and not to be served.”

The challenges of the trip included the journey to and from Sierra Leone— approximately 30 hours one-way—and the limited resources on the ship, such as fresh water. Despite these hardships, however, the NHO team was amazed at how much impact Mercy Ships has had in Sierra Leone and will continue to make worldwide.

“God is doing His work big time through Mercy Ships,” Ahu says. “They go to different countries. Their normal stay in port is about 10 months, then they pick up and go to another country.”

“Mercy Ships was everything I had hoped

Photo: Courtesy of Mercy Ships

it would be and more,” Brownstein says. “It made me feel honored to be a part of their work, even though I’m not on the ship, but through the [donations from] the Charity Concert. Just [to see] the commitment of all the people there … we’re very blessed to have them there.”

Interested in supporting Mercy Ships? You can donate to the organization through “The Gift of Hope Charity Concert,” held annually in December. For more information, contact Chad Brownstein at 842-4242 ext. 140 or visit www.mercyships.org.

Life@itsBest MAY | JUNE 2011

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MOVIE REVIEW

byREYNA MI YA SHI RO Reyna is the wife of Kirk Miyashiro, leader of New Hope O`ahu’s Surf Ministry.

STARRING ANNASOPHIA ROBB, DENNIS QUAID, HELEN HUNT AND CARRIE UNDERWOOD DIRECTED BY SEAN MCNAMARA PG, 106 MINUTES RELEASED APRIL 8, 2011

“Soul Surfer” tells the inspiring true story of Kaua`i native Bethany Hamilton from the time she became known to the public as a teenage survivor of a tragic shark attack that took her left arm. The movie takes you through her remarkable recovery and re-entry into the ocean and focuses on Hamilton overcoming emotional despair, physical disadvantage and fierce competition as a young person starting out in the world of competitive surfing.

The subplots of the movie give insight into Hamilton’s relationships with those around her — her youth pastor, Sarah Hill, as her spiritual mentor; her father, Tom, as her encourager and coach; her mother, Cheri, and brothers, Noah and Tim, as providers of unconditional family love and support; and her best friend, Alana Blanchard, as her lifelong surf buddy.

The movie builds and crests like waves in the ocean, from light-hearted moonlit surfing scenes with teenage friends to the shock and horror of the near-death shark attack.

The Christian themes in the movie were highlighted by Scripture quotations from characters in the film. Themes such as perseverance and reliance on God are found in Tom Hamilton’s assurance, “I can do all things through Him …” Another theme of finding faith through life’s hardships is depicted through Sarah Hill’s reference to Jeremiah 29:11, “For I know the plans that I have for you …”

The movie appeals to a large viewing audience, as a heroinebeating-the-odds family film made to inspire and give hope to people of all ages around the world. Local audience members are especially encouraged to come out to see this homegrown story portrayed on the big screen.

“Soul Surfer” was engaging and enjoyable. I especially enjoyed seeing the dramatic portrayal of Hamilton’s family life — how

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her parents and siblings worked through questions in their own faith to rally to her side and grew stronger as a family through the experience. However, because of the movie’s desire to appeal to a large audience, it appears to overlook the core evangelical message of Hamilton’s testimony — that an ordinary, imperfect life, when surrendered to God, can be extraordinary.

“Soul Surfer” covers Hamilton’s life-altering events as a 13-yearold, but the movie seems to depict her as an older teen resolute on becoming a professional surfer, as she is played by 17-year-old AnnaSophia Robb. Hamilton’s young age was not as emphasized as I would have liked. I found the real Hamilton amazingly God-focused, selfless, brave and spiritually mature beyond her 13 years. My husband, Kirk, and I met Hamilton at the Honolulu Academy of Arts in November 2007, during a free screening of her documentary DVD, “Heart of a Soul Surfer: The Personal Documentary of Teen Shark Attack Victim, Bethany Hamilton.” From her sharing, the documentary DVD and her Q&A session with the audience, we got to know her better. The more we learned about her, the more we were in awe of her — she honors her parents and her Father in heaven, and she represents them well.

Overall, I would recommend “Soul Surfer” and would definitely see it again. Kirk considers “Soul Surfer” a mustsee film that is wonderfully done. It was a challenge for the producers of “Soul Surfer” to create the movie and be realistic, but Hamilton’s story is one that should be told over and over until everyone gets inspired enough to really get to know her. For the audience member who wants a closer look at Hamilton’s life and uncompromising evangelical message, I would also recommend watching “Heart of a Soul Surfer: The Personal Documentary of Teen Shark Attack Victim, Bethany Hamilton.”

Kirk and Reyna Miyashiro met Bethany Hamilton at a film screening at the Honolulu Academy of Arts in November 2007 (Photo: Courtesy of the Miyashiros).

“Give Blood … Jesus Did!” Blood Drive byKE LLI S H I R OM A

Mark your calendars for Sunday, May 15, as New Hope O`ahu (NHO) partners with the Blood Bank of Hawaii to host the “GBJD — Give Blood … Jesus Did!” blood drive at Farrington High School (FHS). Donate blood from 8:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. and bring a valid picture ID. NHO is just one of many churches included in the Hawaii Pastors Roundtable (HPR) that will be participating in the blood drive.

“We’re looking at about 30 churches to participate, and it’s all denominations,” says Pastor Elwin Ahu of NHO. The HPR is an organization of senior pastors and denominational leaders serving in Hawaii that serves as a forum to discuss resolutions for community issues. The organization felt that partnering with the Blood Bank of Hawaii to do blood drives regularly throughout the year would aid the community. “Heart to Heart” is the overall theme for the organization’s effort to help the Blood Bank of Hawaii.

“It’s [giving blood] not a one-time thing, but we want to encourage our congregations to continue to give blood throughout the year, “Ahu says.

Regular donors are crucial to maintain an adequate blood supply to meet the blood needs of those in Hawaii, according to Margo Mun, a NHO volunteer

helping with the upcoming blood drive.

“Only two percent of the population of Hawaii donate blood, but 60 percent of the people in Hawaii will need blood in their lifetime,” says Mun, who had previous experience with the Blood Bank of Hawaii.

“The vision behind this event is to reach out to the community, to help save lives … to meet the physical needs of people like Jesus did.”

Through the partnership with the Blood Bank of Hawaii, the HPR hopes to host quarterly blood drives, but individuals are encouraged to go down to the donor centers on their own to donate. While the actual collection of blood only takes eight minutes, there are several preparation steps possible donors should take before the procedure takes place. These include getting adequate rest and drinking 8-10 glasses of water. There are certain requirements for blood donors, including being in good health, providing a valid photo I.D., weighing 110 pounds or more, being 18 years of age or older and waiting eight weeks between blood donations.

For more information about the upcoming Blood Drive on May 15, contact Margo Mun at margo_mun@yahoo.com or Blood Bank Field Representative Carol Kettner at ckettner@bbh.org.

“One of the areas we [HPR] thought the Church at large—not just New Hope—could make a difference in the community was through the Blood Bank. When you think of the blood of Jesus being shed for us so that we may live, the same is true with giving blood for the sake of others.” – PASTOR ELWIN AHU

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A Whole “Latta” Heart byK E L L I S H I R OM A

photog ra phy by LAR RY GANI R ON

You might see her dancing hula with the halau on stage at New Hope Honolulu, with her Rapunzel-like hair swishing gracefully behind her. When she’s not on stage dancing, she’s hard at work, crunching numbers in the New Hope O`ahu accounting office. Although she might be petite at less than five feet tall, Laurie Young does what God has called her to do with her whole heart. In this issue of Life at its Best magazine, Young tells us about her experience on the New hope staff and how she joined “Hearts in Motion.”

Laurie Young never dreamed of serving on staff in the accounting department at New Hope O`ahu (NHO), where she attended for 13 years. Prior to being on staff, Young—known as “La”—assisted her husband, Andrew, with his cabinetry business. She also dedicated much of her time volunteering for the Halau of New Hope, which she was a part of for 10 years.

“I mostly took care of the bills, but when he [Andrew] got busy, I helped him in the shop doing things like laminating, painting and cleaning,” she says. “My time was [also] directed toward the halau, doing costumes, choreographing and teaching some of the hulas.”

However, Young’s life changed in 2008 when Andrew closed his custom cabinet shop of 22 years because of the declining economy. Young recalls how tough the decision was for them, as Andrew started working for a general contractor and she started looking for a job.

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Young heard about an opening in the accounting department at NHO and applied for the position after a friend encouraged her.

“She told me, ‘You should apply anyway because you never know what doors God will open for you if you don’t try,’” Young remembers. “It’s by God’s grace that I’m here!”

Young has been serving on staff at NHO as an accounts payable clerk since January 2009. Her responsibilities include taking care of the bills for all the vendors that NHO uses, as well as the bills that the church receives from Oregon. When she first started the job, Young remembers being constantly stressed, worrying that her performance was not meeting the church’s standards.

She especially appreciates her co-workers’ patience with her when she first joined the NHO staff.

“Every person has been nothing but encouraging and kind,” Young affirms. “I

love working alongside them, serving God. They all have the joy of the Lord.”

Although joining the NHO staff was a step of faith for Young, she knows that her faith continues to be tested through her position. Later in 2009, Young’s faith was once again challenged when her husband felt led to re-open his cabinet company.

“We had a mortgage to pay and I thought, ‘It’s better to have a steady income because it seems that the economy’s not stable yet,’” she says. “But God has His plan and His timing! After he [Andrew] opened it again [in June 2009], work has been abundant.”

In addition to spending time with Andrew, Young enjoys dancing hula in her free time. Prior to dancing for the Halau of New Hope, Young danced hula in secular halaus for seven years. While dancing hula has always been her passion, Young knew that God wanted her to dance for Him. “When I used to practice my secular

STAFF PROFILE

hula, God told me, ‘When are you going to dance for me?’” Young says. “I shrugged it off […] but after the second time He said that to me, I promised Him that the next time I saw the ‘Hearts in Motion (HIM)’ announcement in the bulletin, I would sign up.”

Young initially thought that the “HIM” announcement would not come for another few months. But God prompted her to start dancing for Him sooner than she expected, when the announcement showed up in the church bulletin the weekend after she made her promise. True to her word, Young signed up for “HIM” and eventually auditioned for and joined the halau. Being part of the halau has taught Young many invaluable lessons, such as the meaning of ministry.

“Everything we do is to point people to the Cross,” she says. “It’s also opened my eyes to see how God can redeem all things for His glory, including dance. I learned that God can use every song, every lyric, every

motion and every expression to touch a hurting heart or to bring hope to someone who is struggling.”

As she reflects on her time thus far on the NHO staff and as part of the halau, Young continually expresses her gratitude to God

“The best lesson I learned [through this job] is having faith in God and the plan that He has for me. I always remember that He doesn’t call the enabled, but He enables the called.” – LAURIE YOUNG for allowing her to be a part of the New Hope ‘ohana.

“The role that I have in accounting or in the halau is God’s plan for me,” she says.

“I’m so thankful that He has a purpose and a place for me in His big plan. I’m beyond blessed to be a part of New Hope, in the halau and on staff.”

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Creative Design Ministry: Stemming from the Heart byKELLI SHI RO MA

pho t o g ra phy by D E R R E K M I YA H A R A & K E ON E M OOR E

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W

hile many people focus on the speaker during New Hope Honolulu’s weekend services at Farrington High School’s Auditorium, it’s hard not to marvel at the beautifully created floral arrangements that adorn either side of the stage.

The exquisite floral décor is the work of the Creative Design Ministry, who also provides the weekly floral arrangements at the New Hope O`ahu (NHO) Ministry Center located at Sand Island.

“We design floral arrangements, table décor and more in an effort to enhance our atmosphere and make our surroundings comfortable for people to enjoy,” says Ryan Medeiros, the ministry’s leader.

The Creative Design Ministry began rather unexpectedly, according to Medeiros, as a result of a pastors’ meeting in 1999. Pastor Wayne Cordeiro wanted the meeting room to look more welcoming for the visiting pastors. His secretary called upon volunteer Neta Spears to do what she did best — to use her gift of creative design to construct picturesque tablescapes and a beautiful setting. Cordeiro even refers to this incident in his novel, Doing Church as a Team.

“She [Neta] went to work, picking fresh flowers and lining the tables with beautiful tablecloths,” Cordeiro writes. “She filled water pitchers with ice-cold water, and she placed a

office.”

Every Friday, a team of four women decorates the church offices with flower accents. The group meets around 9 a.m. and, one-and-a-half or two hours later, the Ministry Center is decorated with gorgeous floral arrangements, from behind the receptionist desk to the stage in the LEAD Center.

While a team of volunteers decorates the Ministry Center, Medeiros usually works alone to prepare the stage at the Farrington High School Auditorium for the weekend services. Having experience in creative design and being the owner of his own event design company, he often does the arrangements in between his company’s events on Saturday mornings.

Medeiros also is responsible for cleaning up and taking down the stage décor after the last church service concludes on Sundays.

The majority of the flowers are donations from members of the New Hope congregation, Medeiros says. The ministry also buys flowers and decorations from wholesalers when they need more materials.

Having limited resources at times is one of the ministry’s challenges, but it does not stop the volunteers from accomplishing God’s will, according to Medeiros.

“Being able to execute what God wants us to do—as far as design—and being resourceful and creative with what’s available is a challenge,” he shares. “But whatever time or resources we have, it’s always sufficient for us to do what God wants us to do.”

“Come as you are. The heart to serve is the bottom line in our ministry.

For members of the Creative It’s not how fast you can put flowers together or how you put together Design Ministry, the ultimate highlight is being able to share a flowers, but it’s how your heart changes in the process.” – RYAN MEDEIROS snippet of God’s creative design with others. scarf on each water jug, as if they were to be “When you are somebody who is creative, judged in competition for contemporary pitcher [the joy] is being able to see God’s design and décor! […] When I walked into the room the plan come to life and to know you’ve been a part morning of the meeting, I thought I had stumbled of it and to see those enjoy it,” Medeiros says. into a photo shoot for Better Homes and Gardens.

Medeiros acknowledges the struggle of many It was absolutely stunning!” creative designers — to remain humble. This After that event, the Creative Design Ministry quality, though, is the very essence of the ministry. was born, with the purpose of decorating the “One of the biggest lessons [I’ve learned] is to stage in Farrington High School’s Auditorium for step out of the way and let God lead,” Medeiros the weekend church services. The ministry is also says. “You have to keep in mind that it’s not about responsible for taking care of flower accents and you. It’s [creative design] not a platform for us to décor around the church office, LEAD Center and showcase ourselves. It’s about leading people to for other New Hope special events, according to the throne and these are just venues in which God Medeiros. has given us to lead people.”

“We do flowers for centerpieces, as well as stage accents for Pacific Rim Christian College and their fundraisers,” he explains. “Christmas Interested in joining the Creative Design Ministry? Contact Ryan is another big thing [for our ministry] — we take Medeiros at 386-8325 or abbahawaii@yahoo.com. care of Christmas decorations for the church

Life@itsBest MAY | JUNE 2011

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Surgical Weight Loss Institute at

Castle Medical Center

Our Surgical Weight Loss Institute helps people who are obese regain their health through weight loss surgery. The institute offers a comprehensive program that brings together a team of experts to assist with the physical and emotional effects of obesity through surgery, education, diet and exercise. Working hand in hand with our Wellness Center, caring for body, mind and spirit, we successfully transform lives.

Castle Medical Center’s Surgical Weight Loss Institute is a designated Bariatric Surgery Center of Excellence, credentialed by the American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery, and a Blue Distinction Center for Bariatric Surgery, designated

by Blue Cross Blue Shield America (BCBSA).

For more information on the Surgical Weight Loss Institute, please call 263-5176, or visit our Web site at castlemed.org 30 Life@itsBest MAY | JUNE 2011

ÂŽ

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KEEPing Hope Alive byKELLI SHI RO MA

pho t o g ra phy by L A R RY G A N I R ON

The first issue of the New Hope O`ahu Marketplace Leadership Business Directory launched last March and has continued to grow with each issue. Business owners Lori Rodriguez and Maricar Lagman share with Life at its Best magazine how they connected through the directory and how their meeting led to large-scale changes for Christ.

Lori Rodriguez remembers seeing the online version of the 2nd New Hope O`ahu (NHO) Marketplace Leadership (MPL) Business Directory last September. Rodriguez was searching for a graphic artist to create a website for her business, KEEPcards, in which cards with words of encouragement are sold in handcrafted treasure boxes.

“The vision the Lord gave me was to use words to intentionally build each other up,” Rodriguez says. “KEEP is the acronym for Keep Encouraging and Equipping to reach one’s own highest Potential.”

Rodriguez came across Maricar Lagman’s “Web Designs Hawaii” business through the

attending New Hope O`ahu.

“She was on the phone with Pastor Roy Yamamoto of Prison Ministry, and I was on the phone with Char [Yamamoto] and we were apologizing for both being late [for our meeting],” Lagman chuckles. “In the context of the conversation, we realized we were talking to the husband and wife. We realized we had a passion for Prison Ministry and we were close friends with those in the ministry.”

After that meeting, Rodriguez knew that God connected her with Lagman for a reason. She then asked Lagman to be her business partner in KEEPcards and Lagman agreed, knowing their meeting and

“We need to take a step of faith … unless we take that first step, there won’t be any changes. To get to God’s destination or His plan for us, we have to take that leap of faith, which is one step at a time. I think if all of us take that one step, great changes will totally happen.” – MARICAR LAGMAN directory and saw everything she envisioned for her company on Lagman’s website.

“I’m a web developer and graphic designer,” explains Maricar Lagman.

“Through Web Designs Hawaii, I’m able to create the graphics for my ‘Words that Love’ line, which is creations and words inspired by Jesus and are produced on T-shirts, greeting cards and bookmarkers.”

Rodriguez remembers having interest in Lagman’s “Words that Love” line because it was similar to her vision for KEEPcards. At the end of September, she e-mailed Lagman to inquire about her graphic design services.

Rodriguez and Lagman agreed to meet in person the next day, during which they realized they had even more in common than

32 Life@itsBest MAY | JUNE 2011

commonalities all stemmed from God. Rodriguez and Lagman immediately discussed having their first sale, with a portion of the proceeds going to the NHO Prison Ministry. After talking to Pastor Roy and Pastor Elwin Ahu, Rodriguez and Lagman set up a fundraiser that would benefit the NHO Prison Ministry ’s upcoming outreach to Saguaro Prison. Products from the KEEPcards business—treasure boxes handcrafted by Rodriguez with cards designed by Lagman— were sold at the fundraiser, as well as creations from Lagman’s “Words that Love” line. At the end of the fundraiser, the women presented the NHO Prison Ministry with more than $2,000 for the upcoming outreach to Saguaro Prison.

“Lori and Maricar went out of their way to do this fundraiser for the Prison Ministry, and a huge amount of people have been blessed,” says Pastor Roy Yamamoto, Prison Ministry chaplain.

Although KEEPcards is a relatively new business, it is already expanding. Rodriguez explains she and Lagman are currently designing a line of treasure boxes and cards designed for elementary schoolaged children. They plan to have an entire assembly for high school-aged students by next year. Rodriguez already has a vision for the company ’s future, according to Lagman.

“We see it [KEEPcards] going global,” Lagman says. “God gave Lori the vision of

100 million editions of cards …” “… which means every single person will get at least one card in some point in their life,” Rodriguez summarizes.

Both Rodriguez and Lagman express their gratitude for how God connected them through the 2nd NHO MPL Business Directory and remain hopeful for KEEPcards’ promising future.

“God’s dream for us is bigger than our dream for ourselves,” Lagman says. “My dream wasn’t that big, but if it’s God’s dream [to reach 100 million people], He’ll make it possible. This [KEEPcards] wasn’t something that was in my business plan, but God had it in His business plan!”

Maricar Lagman (left) and Lori Rodriguez (right) partnered together to organize a fundraiser to help the NHO Prison Ministry, led by Pastor Roy Yamamoto (center).

Life@itsBest MAY | JUNE 2011

33

VOLUNTEER HIGHLIGHT

A “Lei-bor” of Love byKELLI SHI RO MA

pho t o g ra phy by D E R R E K M I YA H A R A

A

t New Hope Honolulu’s weekend services, Pastor Wayne Cordeiro, Pastor Elwin Ahu or a featured speaker enters the stage wearing a fresh, brightly-colored lei (that always seems to color coordinate perfectly with their aloha shirts). Contrary to what many might think, New Hope does not provide these beautiful leis; they are simply a gesture of kindness from church attendees Daniel and Nalu Fakatoka.

“We started over here at New Hope Honolulu in 2004, and we have been doing this [providing the leis for speakers] from 2007,” Daniel says.

The Fakatokas buy fresh leis from a friend’s lei stand in downtown every weekend

“As for me and my household, we serve the Lord.” – JOSH. 24:15 and deliver it to the weekend’s speaker before the 5 p.m. service on Saturdays, which they normally attend. While some customers dash in and out with their purchases, the Fakatokas carefully select their leis.

“We pick the best, not the kind that’s cheap,” Daniel states. “Everything is in a season. When there’s a season of pikake, that’s the best one. But when there’s a season of tuberose or puakenikeni, we pick that.”

“When there’s a special day, like Easter or Christmas, we order the Tongan lei; it’s a special order,” Nalu adds.

34 Life@itsBest MAY | JUNE 2011

The featured speaker at New Hope Honolulu is not the only one blessed with a fresh lei every weekend. The Fakatokas also deliver leis to the pastors at New Hope Windward and New Hope Kailua on Sunday mornings. Nalu gives the lei to a member at New Hope Kailua to deliver to the pastor, but the couple personally hand-delivers the lei to the featured pastor at New Hope Windward since they serve there on Sundays.

“Five years ago, we moved to New Hope Windward,” Daniel explains. “We volunteer there — I’m a Levite and she [Nalu] helps with Children’s Church.”

When asked as to why they decided to volunteer and provide the leis, Daniel and Nalu just look at each other and shrug their shoulders, warm smiles spreading across their faces. shall “God put it on our hearts,” Daniel says. “We just feel it from our hearts; it just comes from our hearts to do that.”

“We want to make the pastor look special,” Nalu chimes in.

While the Fakatokas have been serving through their generosity for several years already, they do not feel like they’ll be stopping this “lei-bor of love” anytime soon.

“We do it from our hearts,” Daniel says sincerely. “We enjoy doing that.”

Life@itsBest MAY | JUNE 2011

35

TAKING

“Z” BIG STEP byK E L L I S H I R OM A

photog ra phy by GAS T ON S OUZ A

When people first learn about zpizza, they discover that pizza can be healthy, as the company provides delicious gourmet pizzas made with organic and fresh ingredients. What many don’t hear is the story of how zpizza came to Hawaii. In this issue, Life at its Best magazine talks to New Hope attendees Cesar and Karen Llarenas about how they came to own the Hawaii zpizza franchise and how their trust in the Lord was strengthened during the process.

36 Life@itsBest MAY | JUNE 2011

Cesar Llarenas always dreamed of opening his own restaurant. Even while he was working at McDonalds for 32 years as an operations consultant, he hoped to have his own business someday. His wife, Karen, was certain that he would eventually open a burger joint.

“He has always been inquiring about different franchise packages,” she says. “He applied to different gourmet burger places, so I thought it [the restaurant] was going to be burgers … but it ended up being pizza!”

“I tried to put forth my own effort to search out things,” Cesar remembers. “I would look at a package, but something was not right every time. So I said, ‘Lord, You take the lead, and we’ll just follow.’”

On a Tuesday in October 2007, the Llarenases unexpectedly received a phone call from the zpizza Corporation, located then in Newport Beach, Calif. A year and a half earlier, Cesar had applied for the zpizza franchise in Hawaii, but the company had not registered in Hawaii at the time he applied.

“There were 24 other applicants, but because of his [Cesar’s] operational experience in restaurants, they had pulled his application, thinking he was the most likely to succeed,” Karen recalls.

“We prayed about it and said, ‘Lord, if this is what You want us to do, You’ll open up the doors,’” Cesar adds.

Each step leading up to their ownership of the Hawaii zpizza franchise fell into place—from finding cheap airline tickets to meeting with the Corporation members—and the couple knew it was because of God. After visiting several zpizza restaurants, the Llarenases returned home and prayed about their decision. Cesar had already made the choice to retire from McDonalds the following year, and the couple wondered if God was calling them to own the Hawaii franchise.

Thus, the Llarenases officially made the decision to own the zpizza franchise in Hawaii, and their first restaurant opened at Ward Centre in December 2008 after Cesar retired from McDonalds. The restaurant’s second location opened last November in Kailua. Starting a business was challenging, especially with the economic recession, but it was during those years that the Llarenases learned to truly rely on God. “Owning a business is a step of faith and a lot of risks, and God brought us to our knees,” Karen says. “We could have retired comfortably, but that’s not what He wanted for us.”

“We really had to seek the Lord at that time,” Cesar adds. “Without prayers, we would not be where we are right now.”

The Llarenases “When I think about ‘small steps, big changes,’ remember the strong I remember how we were so comfortable with support of their life before. Then, we took a step of faith and Christian brothers and sisters from New with all the things combined with that—a lot of Hope Windward risk and uncertainty—the changes in our lives and New Hope Honolulu, where were big changes. You really get to know who have attended you are when that happens.” – CESAR AND KAREN LLARENAS they from 2002. The Llarenases, who attend both campuses, volunteer regularly The sealing factor for the couple was at New Hope Windward — Karen has been when their franchise agreement—which on the finance team and currently serves in originally included conditions that were Children’s Church and helps in the church non-advantageous to those in Hawaii— office, while Cesar serves in the Greeters’ was approved, with changes made by the Ministry. The couple is grateful for all the Llarenases. prayers and encouragement they received “We said, ‘Lord, take control of this before starting their business. situation,’” Cesar remembers. “‘If they [the “Networking with other Christians is Corporation members] don’t approve it [the important,” Karen says. “Our general agreement], that means You don’t want us contractor, Rainforest G Construction, are to bring this franchise [to Hawaii]. But they also members of New Hope Windward. didn’t argue on one point.”

Without their faith, prayers and support, we

wouldn’t be where we are today.”

Owning zpizza has only strengthened the Llarenases’ faith in God. Karen explains that they are still learning the essence of trusting the Lord in all areas of their lives.

“Sometimes, you think you have control,” Karen says, “you can prepare and do all these things, but they just don’t work out. We learned to lean on Him and cry out to Him more.”

The couple’s relationship with the Lord is not the only bond that has been growing stronger. While they have different roles— Cesar often helps in the kitchen, while Karen works behind the scenes with human resources—the couple knows that owning zpizza has brought them closer together.

“I think it’s [owning zpizza] drawn us together because we had to work together [more often],” Karen says. “We’re working toward the same goal, although we’re doing different parts of the business.”

In terms of upcoming plans, the Llarenases hope to open another zpizza store within the next few years. However, right now, they are content with how their business is growing, are grateful for God’s provision and continue to wait on His guidance for zpizza’s future.

“You have to do your best, but God owns all things,” Cesar says. “We don’t own it; we just have to be better stewards for God.”

Life@itsBest MAY | JUNE 2011

37

Share

Da

Aloha

2011 WORSHIP HULA CONFERENCE “Big changes are like a ripple effect; one drop and many ripples are created. ‘Share da Aloha’ is that ripple effect … you may think we are just a speck in the ocean, but the power of our Lord is so mighty, He used our hula specifically to touch the world.” – PASTOR SAM KAPU

38 Life@itsBest MAY | JUNE 2011

M

ark your calendars for an evening of powerful worship through hula at this year’s “Share da Aloha (SDA)” event, hosted by New Hope Manoa and supported by New Hope O`ahu (NHO). The event—to be held at the Stan Sheriff Center on Friday, May 20 at 5:30 p.m.—will feature worship halaus from churches all over the world, as well as guest worship leader Rick Muchow of Saddleback Church from Lake Forest, Calif.

The “SDA” event, which started eight years ago by Saddleback Church’s halau ministry, is an annual celebration of worship hula.

“It started off as a gathering of invited churches — different churches on the West Coast especially, and one or two churches from Hawaii,” says Pastor Sam Kapu of New Hope Manoa. “It [‘SDA’] started at Saddleback and as it grew, they would switch cities every other year.”

New Hope Manoa and Saddleback Church first formed a relationship six years ago, when Jaime Kapu, Sam’s wife, was looking for information about hula and worship on the Internet.

“The first [website] that caught my eye was Saddleback,” she remembers.

“I noticed there were authentic pictures of people praising the Lord. I e-mailed them and said how I appreciated people not from the islands ministering to people using the hula.”

Thus began a correspondence between the Kapus and Linda Merritt, Saddleback Church’s hula ministry leader, who eventually invited the New Hope Manoa halau to attend the 2008 “SDA” event. The New Hope Manoa halau has participated in “SDA” every year since then, and last year, Saddleback Church decided it was time to pass the baton to NHO for the following year’s event.

“The vision was to bring it [the conference] back to Hawaii and open it up to more churches to celebrate worship hula,” says Sam. “I know it’s been done on a smaller scale before [here], but I don’t think it’s been done like this. I envision this being the Christian version of ‘The Merrie Monarch’ …” “… but without the competition,” his wife adds, laughing.

New Hope Manoa’s involvement in the “SDA” event this year is

significant for several reasons. Not only is “SDA” making its debut in the Hawaiian Islands, but it is an extension of NHO’s culture as a church that values worship through the performing arts. The event also strikes a chord in those who appreciate hula.

“We believe that Christian hula in ministry allows us to redeem it to glorify God and to preach or to share the Gospel of Jesus Christ in an artistic and beautifully visual manner,” says John Tilton, NHO’s administrative pastor.

Hosting “SDA” is especially meaningful to NHO because it represents the realization of a dream that originated many years ago, according to Tilton.

“When Lanu [my wife] and I first felt called to start the halau and dance ministry at New Hope, we had the privilege of getting together with other pioneers of Christian halau at the time, which was around 1996,” he says. “We had a dream of having a hula event where Christian halaus would come from all over the world to glorify God. We actually started planning for it, but God never opened the doors at that time for it to come to fruition. But, [now], 15 years later, God’s allowing that dream to take place.”

New Hope Manoa’s hosting the “SDA” event could be the start of changes on a grander scale, according to Kapu.

“It’s going to bring churches together,” Sam says. “Our hope is that barriers between churches will begin to break, through sharing worship hula together on one platform.”

While the free event officially opens to the public on May 20, there is a special service for all conference participants on Thursday, May 19, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m at the NHO LEAD Center. This service—including worship, communion and a message from a guest speaker—is designed to unify the halau members’ hearts, according to Jaime.

“We come together to make sure the heart is connected, that we break bread together and we worship together,” she said. “It is going to be really important for us to come together and to pray for our islands to move forward to do God’s will.”

“‘Share da Aloha’ will encourage and affirm how God has already begun to use hula and dance to share the Gospel of Jesus Christ.” – PASTOR JOHN TILTON Life@itsBest MAY | JUNE 2011

39

HEALTH TIP

The Diagnosis on Diabetes byPAT TAKENISHI, Rph

W

hen we eat, our bodies break down all the sugars and starches into glucose, which is the basic fuel for our cells.

Insulin (which is produced by the pancreas) then assists our cells to absorb the glucose that is flowing in our bloodstream. Diabetes is a condition where a person has an excess of glucose in the bloodstream. This excess is caused when the body does not produce insulin or the cells in the body are not using the insulin.

There are basically two types of diabetes: Type 1 diabetes, which is a result of the body’s failure to produce insulin, and Type 2 diabetes, which is the result of the body not producing enough insulin, the cells in the body ignoring the insulin, or a combination of both. Type 2 diabetes is the most common form of diabetes and many are unaware that they are at high risk.

In January, the National Diabetes Fact Sheet was released and claimed that 25.8 million adults and children in the United States have diabetes. It also revealed that 79 million people are pre-diabetics and there were 1.9 million new cases. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention published in 2009 stated that there were approximately 80,000 adults with diabetes in Hawaii alone. These statistics are only of known diabetes cases; they do not include an estimate of the many who are unaware that

40 Life@itsBest MAY | JUNE 2011

they are at high risk. Regular checkups with your physician or contacting the American Diabetes Association in Hawaii for assistance might help decrease your chances of developing Type 2 diabetes (as well as other health conditions).

According to the American Diabetes Association, 95 percent of those with diabetes are Type 2 diabetics. Some of the symptoms for diabetes are frequent urination, unusual thirst or hunger, fatigue, blurred vision, slow-healing cuts, tingling or numbness in the hands or feet and frequent infections. Several risk factors for diabetes include being overweight, hypertension, having high cholesterol and smoking. The negative effects of diabetes include heart disease, stroke, high blood pressure, kidney disease, blindness, nervous system disorders and amputation.

When discovered early, Type 2 diabetes can be controlled by simple lifestyle changes. Education, understanding and active participation are essential in controlling diabetes. Diet and exercise are the primary tools you will need in the management of diabetes, as well as with other health conditions. Take the time to get your blood sugar evaluated to prevent developing diabetes and other health conditions associated with this avoidable disease.

ASK PAT Have questions about prescription medications, over-thecounter products or herbal supplements? Ask pharmacist Pat Takenishi! Call 545-8925 to get your health-related questions answered today!

Life@itsBest MAY | JUNE 2011

41

A

HUGE IMPACT

byK E L L I S H I R OM A photog ra phy by LAR RY GANI R ON

As the editor, publisher and graphic designer of a national women’s interest magazine—as well as a member of the Fuse (Young Adults) Ministry—Hugette Montesinos shoulders a lot of responsibility. In this issue, Life at its Best magazine interviews Montesinos, who shares the story behind Disfunkshion magazine and how the publication serves as a ministry to society.

Hugette Montesinos, editor and publisher of Disfunkshion magazine, agreed to be interviewed at the Barnes and Noble at Ala Moana Center. This Barnes and Noble in particular is significant to Montesinos because it was the first store to carry her publication.

“This is very much a historic place,” Montesinos says. “I remember the first time I saw my magazine in that stand, right there under ‘Local Interest.’ It was our premiere issue!”

Disfunkshion magazine—a quarterly fashion, art and culture publication for the modern woman—was created two years ago, out of Montesinos’ obedience to God’s calling to start a magazine dedicated to creating a positive influence on women.

“God put it in my heart to start this ministry,” she says. “One of the ways in which I do that is being able to take something as secular as a fashion or women’s interest magazine and shine a positive light on women.”

The magazine’s name itself is a testament of its purpose.

Montesinos gives me a breakdown of the magazine’s unique name.

“The word ‘dis’ is another word for ‘woman,’” she explains. “And then ‘funk’ like art, music and everything in between. And ‘shion’ for ‘fashion.’ There was an underlying concept — although we’re dysfunctional and there’s dysfunction in the world, God is the only One who brings that into perfect harmony.”

As a New Hope Honolulu attendee since 2007 and a member of the Fuse (Young Adults) Ministry leadership team, Montesinos strives to implement her Christian values in all aspects of her life … including Disfunkshion.

“In every issue, there is a letter from the editor,” Montesinos says, “and in my letter, I share a little of my testimony. It always involves my walk with Him and I exhort young women to take on these journeys with me. I’ll always include a piece of Scripture as well. All of our articles are geared toward pointing women to the light, toward a positive influence.”

Another way Montesinos incorporates her faith in Disfunkshion is including a devotion written by Pastor Wayne Cordeiro in each issue.

She recalls how she was opposed to the idea at first, but eventually realized that including the devotions was part of God’s plan for

42 Life@itsBest MAY | JUNE 2011

Disfunkshion.

“I was doing my devo and then I felt God’s voice — ‘Put a devo in your magazine,’” she says. “I was like, ‘No way, if I put a devo in there, nobody ’s going to buy it!’ But I came to the realization that the Lord is the One who helped me to pursue my dream — doing something where I can use fashion and art to make a difference.

Where was this going to go if I’m not listening to His voice and His direction?”

Montesinos acknowledges the challenges of integrating her faith in the magazine industry, especially when this means going against the beliefs of mainstream American culture. In an industry characterized by sexual content and immorality, incorporating Christian values in a creative way can be a struggle. Being creative, though, is also one of the biggest highlights of Montesinos’ job.

“Christians are so shunned, especially in anything that involves art, fashion and the entertainment industry,” she says. “Being able to use creativity to exploit our message [is a big highlight].”

Disfunkshion’s humble beginnings to where it is now—a growing magazine sold in Barnes and Noble and Borders bookstores nationwide—is a testament of God’s hand upon the publication, according to Montesinos.

“These are definitely small steps in something really big,” she says. “God has given me a vision for this magazine from the beginning. Part of it was starting as a local magazine, but God had given me the vision that this was going to be an international magazine eventually. It did start as a local magazine for a couple issues, and it started doing really well and selling out to the point where we were requested to go national [one year ago].”

So, I ask, from one editor to another … any piece of advice?

Montesinos pauses, reflecting on her experiences. When she does answer, her responses are well thought-out and contemplative.

“The best advice I can give is to stay open-minded and think outside the box,” she says. “Our God is an extremely creative God who has given us a lot of room to play around with ideas and concepts and to be able to feed His Word and His love through many avenues.”

“When we have magazines like Cosmo that tell you […] all these negative things that make women feel insecure and inept to perform as they’re created to be, we’re doing the opposite. We’re showing them that they are beautiful, that they are acceptable. We’re just showing them how to do it in a healthy way, whether that be through health, fitness, ways to get involved in the community … things that go outside of the superficial aspect of beauty and existence.” – HUGETTE MONTESINOS

Life@itsBest MAY | JUNE 2011

43

COMMUNITY CONNECTION

NHMOW: Mobile Helping byKELLI SHI RO MA

I

pho t o g ra phy by L A N A K I L A M E A L S ON W H E E LS

t’s time for you to get rolling and join the New Hope Meals on Wheels (NHMOW) Ministry. This new ministry is designed to reach out to the seniors in the local community by partnering with the Lanakila Meals on Wheels (LMOW) program.

“LMOW is one of the programs within our organization, Lanakila Pacific,” says Randi Jeung says, LMOW volunteer coordinator. “LMOW is our biggest program

Delivery program, the need for volunteers is crucial, according to Jeung, who is grateful for NHO’s partnership with LMOW. “Our routes are growing tremendously and we’re seeing the need,” she affirms.

“We’ll be able to take some of the seniors off of our wait list and get them started with our meals [as a result of more New Hope volunteers].”

Jeung shares that the benefit of volunteering is mutual — not only are

“New Hope is taking small steps into this ministry and it will result in a lot of big changes for the seniors in our community. For volunteers, even if it only takes an hour-and-a-half of their time to deliver these meals, the rewards that they are going to leave with the kupuna [elderly] are going to be lifelong.” – BILLIE GABRIEL and we’re always in need of volunteers to help serve the seniors each week.”

Under its Home Delivery program, LMOW serves meals to more than 1,500 seniors around the island every week.

This program has experienced the biggest growth in the past six months, according to Jeung. Under the Home Delivery program, volunteers come in during the week to help package the meals, which are delivered from Monday thru Saturday. While the meals going to homes in the Honolulu region are delivered daily, routes outside the area are weekly deliveries.

New Hope O`ahu (NHO) is aiming to join the 150 to 200 volunteers involved with LMOW. After Jeung—a NHO member— read an announcement in the New Hope Honolulu bulletin in January, stating that the church might get involved with Meals on Wheels, she called the NHO Ministry Center in late February to inquire. She was connected with volunteer Billie Gabriel, who is spearheading the ministry’s effort, and a partnership between NHO and LMOW began.

“We are [currently] contacting the volunteers [from our initial signup] if they’re willing to volunteer an hour-and-a-half each week,” Gabriel says, during our interview in late March.

With the rapidly-expanding Home

44 Life@itsBest MAY | JUNE 2011

seniors blessed with meals, but volunteers create relationships with seniors on their routes.

“My volunteers who have come into the [Home Delivery] program have told me that, eventually, they start developing genuine friendships with our seniors,” Jeung says. “Volunteer service is a good thingv, but it becomes more of a friendship than a volunteer service.”

For more information about the NHMOW Ministry, e-mail newhope.mow@gmail.com.

P HOTO B Y DE RRE K MI YAHARA

GEMS ALONG THE WAY

Walking in Integrity byWAYN E CORDEIRO

By taking small steps to keep our word, we have a deeper understanding of how God always keeps His Word.

My dear son Aaron,

There’s a saying that goes, “I can’t hear what you say, because what you do speaks so loudly!” Our lifestyles and actions build a platform upon which we speak, and that will either support or nullify what we say.

We catch a glimpse of God’s integrity as we try to be trustworthy. By taking small steps to keep our word, we have a deeper understanding of how God always keeps His Word. As our trust in God grows, so will our obedience to Him. A few summers ago, I was learning to rappel in Montana on the side of a 300-foot cliff. The instructor was very good, but his assistant seemed a bit green. When he strapped me into my harness, the main instructor had to come over and redo it.

That was the only warning I needed to alert me that this guy was not “expert” enough. We split up into two lines, and I was put in the assistant’s group. I peeked over the edge and my life flashed before my eyes. We neared the edge of the cliff, and when the assistant gave me instructions, I doubted his expertise and hesitated.

When he asked me to tie the rope on and lean out over the cliff, I told him I needed to use the bathroom first and disappeared.

A few minutes later, I returned and, instead of going back to my line, I weaseled my way into the main instructor’s group. I told him I was a late enrollment who loved life.

Finally, the moment came when he checked my harness and coached me toward the edge. Though my heart was still thumping, I was more willing to obey him because I trusted him.

Do you trust God? Do you have faith in His instructions? Do

you believe that His advice is good and that He will keep His Word?

A great way to build your trust in God is to begin with yourself.

Do you keep your word?

Here are two irreducible qualities of faith.

First, it is my responsibility to deal with all the doubts in my heart. If there are any doubts at all about what I am planning to do, it is my responsibility to resolve them before I move on.

Whether it is through prayer, research, fasting or counsel, I must resolve any lingering doubts prior to my launching out in faith.

The second irreducible quality is this: God says that I must believe what I say if I’m going to believe what God says! If I am not holding myself accountable to integrity, then my trust-factor in God’s Word will be inadequate for His assignments for me.

Building faith in your own words is important because it helps you to build faith in God’s Word. Learn to “walk in your integrity.” A person with character richness, who walks in integrity, is of great value in God’s eyes. And, like that rappelling instructor, if people can trust you, they’ll weasel a way to get into your group more often than any other.

Leaning on Jesus, Dad

Life@itsBest MAY | JUNE 2011

45

NEW HOPE CHRISTIAN FELLOWSHIP O`AHU Y O U T H P E R F O R M I N G A R T S C E N T E R 2 0 1 1 46 Life@itsBest MAY | JUNE 2011

The Dawn of a New Decade byKELLI SHI RO MA

pho t o g ra phy by C H A R I S A G U M & T.Y.

J

oin the New Hope O`ahu Youth Performing Arts Center (YPAC) as they celebrate their 10th anniversary this year with the performance of “Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat” during July 8-24. This is the second time the YPAC will be performing “Joseph,” according to Director Dane Ison.

The first musical, “Godspell,” was performed by the youth choir in 2002, but “Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat” in 2003 marked the start of YPAC musicals at Farrington High School (FHS). “‘Joseph’ was our first big musical at Farrington,” Ison says. “We are doing it again [this year] because it was our first large production; I thought I’d bring that back. It was Pastor Wayne [Cordeiro] who encouraged me to take it [the musical] onto the big stage at Farrington. It was a huge undertaking, but it became such an incredible experience.”

After “Joseph” was performed in 2003, a variety of musicals followed, including “Children of Eden” (2004), “A Christmas Carol” (2005), a second round of “Godspell” (2006), “Moses: The Prince of Egypt” (2007), “A Charlie Brown

were not in school and could focus more on the musical itself. 2010 also signified a change in the audition process. In previous years, every child who signed up for the musical became part of the cast, resulting in casts as large as 100 youth. The auditions were primarily held to determine roles or parts. However, “Beauty and the Beast” marked the beginning of auditions for cast members.

“The difficulty before was that it [the musical] got too large; after a while, our cast became 100plus [youth],” Ison says. “Now, we have a cast of 50-60 kids. Unfortunately, you have to not take some kids. But in that, too, there’s a good lesson — an experience for them to audition, but also [learn] what they need to do to grow.”

Rehearsals for the musical started toward the end of March and take place every Sunday. At the end of June, though, the musical’s cast operates on a “crunch time” schedule, meeting every day up until the musical show dates.

As he reflects on a decade of being the director of the youth musicals, Ison attributes all that he does to his passion to enhance the Godgiven gifts instilled in the youth.

“I think the greatest joy is to see the kids begin to realize the gifts God has blessed them with,

“It excites me to celebrate … it’s like our 10th birthday, and it’s a big milestone for our musicals.” – DANE ISON Christmas” (2008), “It’s a Wonderful Life” (2009) and, most recently, “Beauty and the Beast” (2010).

While the initial “Joseph” performance was outstanding, Ison already has an idea of how the musical will be different this year, with more elaborate harmonies, creative blocking and challenging choreography.

“I think the story and the heart won’t change from when we did it [in 2003],” he says, “but what I’m trying to do this year is make it a little more contemporary, not only using technical advances in our set movements, but also musically.”

Throughout the decade of youth musicals, many changes have taken place. On the technical side, the teams try to do new things with the sets, lighting, sound and props. The artistry of the set designs have become more elaborate and the teams have been trying to find creative ways to orchestrate set changes, according to Ison.

“We’re just trying to raise the bar each time and try new things,” he says.

Last year’s “Beauty and the Beast” marked two more changes for the youth musicals — the season of the performance and the way auditions were held. For the first time, the youth musical was held during the summer months, while the youth

then to mature in those gifts, not only in technical aspects, but also in character,” he says.

The YPAC musicals not only provide a venue for creativity, but also offer a positive, Christian atmosphere in which the youth can explore theater. These youth musicals are different in that the main purpose is not to highlight a specific character or role; the focus is to glorify God, according to Ison.

“Being in theater and in this business in the world can be a hard world to experience … being in a world where everybody wants to be stars,” he says. “That’s not our main purpose. Our main purpose is to create something using the gifts God’s given them [the youth] to create something so beautiful that shines Jesus. I always tell the kids that our purpose is to shine Jesus in this musical, no matter what we’re putting on.”

Tickets for “Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat” will be available starting from June 11-12. For more information, contact Dane Ison at daneison@eNewHope.org.

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A Look Back co mpi l ed byK E L L I SHI RO M A pho t o s co urt esy o f NE W HO P E Y OU T H P E R F OR M I N G A RT S C E N T E R

To commemorate a decade of New Hope youth musicals, the Youth Performing Arts Center (YPAC) will be performing “Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat” again, since this was the first youth musical to take place on the “big stage” at the Farrington High School Auditorium. Life at its Best magazine interviewed several cast members of the original “Joseph” musical to reflect on their experiences.

What were some of the highlights of your experience in the original “Joseph” musical?

How have you seen youth musicals change throughout the years?

Chris Thomas: “I was able to join with my peers and serve God together in a creative way. I deepened a lot of relationships during that play.”

Chris Kiriakos: “Overall, the level of excellence has improved; the amount of people who are interested in it has increased. It [youth musicals] changed in a good way because it started off as just a small, New Hope family thing, and it has grown into a community thing.”

Chris Sanders: “The cast that played the brothers was fun. It was neat that I was the oldest brother, Reuben, and Timmy [my younger brother] played the youngest brother, Benjamin. It was my only time I’ve ever done a musical with New Hope, as far as being in the cast … in the rest, I’ve been in the pit with the musicians.”

Tim Sanders: “Dane [Ison] would have the youth choir do devotions and we would share them on a weekly basis. That was one of the most memorable things, apart from great friendships … I got to dig into the Word and I had a venue to share what God was teaching me.”

What were some of the challenges of your experience in the original “Joseph” musical?

Pastor Larry Gillis: “I think the schedule is the biggest challenge; you have to stay on the cutting edge in your performance. When you have back-to-back performances, you have to stay on top … it’s committing yourself to the role.”

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Tiffany Ibale: “Every year, it gets bigger and better; more kids are joining and the productions get more technical. But the reason why I like it [the youth musicals] so much is because more so, it stays the same — the energy and spirit of it hasn’t really changed. God has had His hand on it through every single year and it’s a blessing to the church.”

What are some of the “gems” you have gleaned from being a part of previous musicals?

Pastor Rod Shimabukuro: “These youth musicals help the youth to identify their gifts, draw out the best in their gifts and use them for God.” Pastor Larry Gillis: “We feel like we’re doing what God has given us to do. The actual play is maybe 40 percent of what is being accomplished; what really is being accomplished is relationships, maturity and character.”

“I’m really grateful for a ministry like the youth choir and the productions that they do. I think it really provides a venue where kids can have positive relationships and people that actually love and care for them.” – TIM SANDERS

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the

ENd Era of an

byK E L L I S HI R OM A

photog ra phy by JE D ADAN

“One of the lessons I’ve learned is that your performance goes straight to God. It’s for an audience of One. Without Him, we wouldn’t be able to accomplish these great feats of music and dance.” – MICHAEL CABAGBAG

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F

or Michael Cabagbag, this year’s “Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat” production is significant because it is his final time participating in New Hope O`ahu (NHO) youth musicals.

“I am aging out — right now, I’m 20, and I won’t be considered a youth anymore,” Cabagbag admits, ruefully. “I’m super sad about [that], because I’d just [want to] be a part of the shows and work with Uncle Dane [Ison] for all the musicals he does!”

Cabagbag’s interest in theater was sparked after watching New Hope’s Youth Performing Arts Center’s (YPAC) “Godspell” in 2002. Since then, he has been involved with every youth musical, appearing most recently as “Lumière” in last summer’s “Beauty and the Beast” production. In 2008, besides being a cast member, Cabagbag took on the role of student director.

As student director, Cabagbag had several different responsibilities, including teaching the choir new songs and helping to place youth members on stage. He was also able to interact with the other student leaders of various departments—such as lighting, costumes and sets—and learned different aspects of theater through the process.

Aside from his responsibilities as student

peers caused him to come out of his shell.

“I wouldn’t talk to anyone; I’d be in my own corner,” Cabagbag remembers. “But as the years went by, I made great friends.

It really opened me up … now I’m able to work with other kids and talk with them as a leader.”

In addition, Cabagbag’s involvement with youth musicals kindled a passion for theater and performing arts. As a junior this year at the University of Hawaii at Manoa, Cabagbag is a part of the Arts and Sciences Academy and majoring in dramatic arts.

He aspires to have a job similar to that of Ison’s one day — working with youth and helping them realize their God-given gifts through creative venues like theater.

“I would love to work with kids; I would love to do what Uncle Dane does,” Cabagbag says. “Right now, I feel like theater is getting really big in Hawaii. People in high school and middle school are starting early [to get involved].

Hopefully, I can be a teacher or mentor to them [students] and share what I’ve personally learned in theater through church and get them on that path that I’ve taken.”

Although he can no longer perform in youth musicals in church after this year, Cabagbag is looking into other theatrical venues, through which he can gain more experience “A lot of who I am today is because of Uncle Dane. He has been my while shining as a light for mentor, my teacher and a really good friend to me. Over the years, he Christ.

“I’ve only done theater has helped me develop my leadership skills and become a youth leader in church; I’ve never in the New Hope YPAC. I thank him for giving me this opportunity to done theater outside, like learn more, grow and develop myself in theater.” – MICHAEL CABAGBAG community theater,” he says.

“So now, [I’m] just slowly stepping out into the theater director, though, Cabagbag thoroughly community and being a part of their shows. enjoys being a part of youth musicals Hopefully, I’ll be making new friends there because of the great relationships that who also share the same interests as me and develop during the season. spread the Word of God to them. If I can “The thing I’m going to miss the most invite them to church and get them to see is meeting new youth that share the same our shows, too, that’d be great!” interests with me,” he says. “Every year is a If he could give any words of advice different cast, so there’s always new people to those still involved in youth musicals, to meet and new friendships to create. Every Cabagbag emphasizes the importance of year, I look forward to that.” exploring one’s God-given talents.

Cabagbag recognizes that participating “There’s always room for growth and so in youth musicals has affected his life in much to learn in life,” he says. “Through my numerous ways. When he joined the cast experience in the New Hope YPAC, I have of the original “Joseph” production in learned that God has personally planted 2003—his first church musical—Cabagbag something special in each of us. It [being in remembers how shy and quiet he was. youth musicals] allows young people like me However, years of performing alongside his to find our gifts and develop them for Him.”

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RECIPE

Ode to Mom and Dad photog ra phy by GAS T ON S OUZ A

This Mother’s or Father’s Day, surprise your parents with these delicious, breakfast-in-bed options, provided by the Morning Star Café.

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LOW-FAT HOMEMADE GRANOLA

By Carolyn Kahakelii

INGREDIENTS

4 C rolled oats 1 C coarsely-chopped walnuts or assortment of nuts (almond, Brazil nuts, cashews, pumpkin hazel nuts, pumpkin seeds, etc.) ¼ C sunflower and/or sesame seeds ¼ C brown sugar (optional; can increase honey by ¼ C to substitute for brown sugar) ¼ tsp salt (optional) 2 tsp ground cinnamon 1 C apple juice concentrate, thawed 2 T canola oil 4 T honey 2 T pure vanilla extract ½ C dried blueberries and dried cranberries 1/3 C dates or raisins (cut dates in small pieces) 1/3 C thinly-chopped dried apricot

DIRECTIONS

Preheat oven to 250 degrees. In a large mixing bowl, stir together oats, nuts, seeds, brown sugar, salt and cinnamon.

In a small bowl, mix apple juice concentrate, oil, honey and vanilla extract. Use a whisk and whip honey into the juice mixture until dissolved. Drizzle juice mixture over cereal and stir to coat evenly.

Spread mixture onto a large baking sheet with sides. For even baking, be sure the granola is not more than one inch thick.

Bake for 45 minutes to one hour, stirring every 7-10 minutes.

Add the dried fruits the last 10 minutes. The granola should be crisp and golden. Do not overcook after adding the fruit to prevent fruit from hardening. Cool and store granola in a sealed container in the refrigerator or freezer.

The granola will last for several months.

HEALTHY FRUIT & HOMEMADE GRANOLA PARFAIT

By Carolyn Kahakelii

INGREDIENTS

2/3 C fresh fruits, cut into ½ inch-chunks (melons, oranges, pineapple, kiwi, apples, raspberries, blackberries, strawberries, blueberries, etc.) ¼ C low-fat, plain or vanilla nonfat yogurt 4 T granola (see accompanying recipe or purchase granola)

DIRECTIONS

Place a third of the fruit in the bottom of a parfait glass, reserving a few pieces for garnish.

Top fruit with 3-4 T of yogurt and 2 T of granola. Repeat layers, ending with yogurt. Garnish with a few pieces of fruit and a spring of mint (optional).

Tip: Make granola ahead of time.

The fruit may be cut up the night before, but assemble the parfait just before serving so the granola does not get soggy.

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CHILAQUILES VERDES WITH EGGS

By Neyda Guzman

INGREDIENTS FOR SALSA VERDE

8 medium tomatillos (about 1 ½ lbs total weight), husked and rinsed 1 serrano or jalapeño chile, stemmed ½ white onion, halved again 2 garlic cloves ½ bay leaf Pinch of dried oregano Pinch of dried thyme ½ tsp salt ¼ C low-sodium chicken broth 1 T corn oil

INGREDIENTS FOR CHILAQUILES

Vegetable oil for frying 12 six-inch corn tortillas 2 large eggs, beaten ½ C shredded Monterey Jack cheese 2 T crumbled queso fresco or mild feta cheese 3 T white onion, finely chopped 1 T fresh cilantro, finely chopped Crema fresca or sour cream for garnish

DIRECTIONS

For Salsa Verde Put tomatillos, chile, onion and garlic in a medium pot and add water. Boil over high heat. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer until vegetables are soft and tomatillos turn pale green, about 15-20 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.

Transfer boiled vegetables, along with the cooking water, to a blender. Puree for a few seconds

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to blend. Add the ½ bay leaf, oregano, thyme, salt and broth.

Continue to puree until smooth.

This yields about one quart of salsa verde.

Place a wide pot or pan over medium-high heat and coat with corn oil. When oil is hazy, pour in the salsa verde. Reduce heat to medium and simmer, stirring occasionally, until sauce is slightly thickened, about 10-15 minutes.

Cover and reduce heat to very low.

For Chilaquiles Pour vegetable oil into heavybottomed pot or countertop deep fryer to a depth of about two inches and heat to 375 degrees over medium-high heat. Stack tortillas and fan with thumb to separate. Cut tortillas into 8 wedges like a pie.

Working in batches, fry tortilla chips, turning them with a skimmer or slotted spoon so they don’t stick together until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes.

Remove chips to a paper towellined baking pan to drain and cool.

To finish chilaquiles, uncover salsa verde and raise heat to medium.

Just when it starts to bubble, stir in the beaten eggs. Cook and stir for about five seconds, until egg feathers into sauce, thickening it.

Immediately add chips, tossing gently. Sprinkle Monterey Jack cheese on top and let it melt.

Divide chilaquiles among four plates. Sprinkle with queso fresco, chopped onion and cilantro.

Garnish with crema fresca and serve immediately.

weekends East Shore

times&locations

Sunday: 10 a.m.

Eastshore.enewhope.org

Honolulu

Saturday: 5 p.m. • 7 p.m.

Sunday: 7 a.m. • 9 a.m. • 11 a.m.

Honolulu.enewhope.org

Hawaii Kai

Sunday: 8 a.m. • 10 a.m.

Hawaiikai.enewhope.org

Internet

Saturday: 5 p.m. • 7 p.m.

Sunday: 7 a.m. • 9 a.m. • 11 a.m.

Internet.enewhope.org

Aiea

Sunday: 10 a.m.

Aiea.enewhope.org

Manoa

Sunday: 10 a.m.

Manoa.enewhope.org

Sand Island

Sunday: 9 a.m. • 11 a.m.

Sandisland.enewhope.org

South Shore

Sunday: 10 a.m.

Southshore.enewhope.org

West O`ahu

Sunday: 10:30 a.m.

Westoahu.enewhope.org

wednesdays

LEAD-Midweek Service

Wednesday: 7 p.m. LEAD Center www.enewhope.org

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