MAHALO!

A reflection by Malcolm Zara

As we get older, it begins to seem as if time moves faster than we do! It feels like the past 4 months for EPIC have flown by, and I am so blessed to have been a part of it.

As EPIC coordinator, I had the opportunity to witness the power of Christ work within this ministry. Our “yamily” has grown with many new faces who each bring their own individual gifts and experiences. We have entered into a new partnership with our sister parish in Waialua and will continue working together to grow in faith. EPIC has a newly strengthened Core Team that is committed to serving Christ’s mission. On top of our usually weekly faith-sharings, we have also been busy with many other activities and events. We celebrated 75 years as a parish, hosted the International Pilgrim Statue of Our Lady of Fatima, helped lead an SS.CC. Faith Friday event, and so much more.

Although it may appear that we are in the “season of Martha,” I believe this is a result of our EPIC retreat in Hana. We talked about how we can take this ministry to the “next level” and how we can deepen our relationship with God to get us there.

After this past term, I feel confident in saying that we are on our way! Pope Francis recently reminded us all that we are called to move past our comfort zones, to go beyond the walls of church, and to go out and spread God’s love. EPIC has begun doing that more consistently and frequently through our participation in inter-parish events and extending invitations to others to share in our joy. I believe that this plays a great role in the growth of our ministry and of our individual spiritual lives. I pray we may continue to strive toward God by living out the Great Commission to “go out and make disciples of all nations.”

I would like to extend a huge thanks to everyone who had given their support and prayers throughout my journey as EPIC Coordinator. I would especially like to thank the EPIC Core Team for their hard work and patience in seeing this vision through of empowering young adults to follow Christ. You guys are a big reason for the success of this transition.

Lastly, thank you, Lord, for the strength and wisdom to lead this ministry and for the opportunity to serve You and your people! Here’s to another year "Ever Present In Christ" and His joy!

Amen!