Hawaii permanent deacons gather for a group photo at the Deacon Summer Institute, Aug. 11-13, at St. Stephen Diocesan Center. (Photo courtesy of Dann Ebina)
By Val Streff
Special to the Herald
Hawaii’s permanent deacons and their wives attended a three-day conference Aug. 11-13 at St. Stephen Diocesan Center, engaging in fellowship, reviewing the logistical duties of a deacon and listening to presentations on transgenderism.
The weekend started with a deacon council meeting, led by chairman Deacon Raffy Mendoza. Newly elected council members were recognized, the revised 2023 Deacon Handbook was discussed, and the restructuring of the standing committees was introduced.
When not doing business, the deacons, wives, and widows of deceased deacons enjoyed pupus and socialization.
Friday ended on a high note with a question-and-answer session with Bishop Larry Silva, capped by night prayers, Benediction and Adoration.
The second day introduced information on mental health and transgenderism. Hawaii Catholic Conference director Eva Andrade shared the legal perspective of LGBTQ issues. Psychologist Hale Akamine, focused on the developmental stages of a child and what is learned at various stages of growth. Psychologist Darryl Salvador discussed relationships and identity issues relating to the image and likeness of God. Maile Aiu Domingo spoke about the action-based teaching plan called Onipa‘a that can be incorporated in schools and youth formation classes.
The final day concluded with presentations by the newly re-structured standing committees. Deacon Ray Lamb, chairperson for the ministry of charity sent out a survey of how each deacon is addressing his roles for charity, justice, peace and mercy. Deacon Billy Whitfield, chairperson for continuing education, provided resources for continuing spiritual, pastoral and theological growth as deacons.
Deacon Keith Cabiles, co-chair for spiritual growth, focused on bringing a balance to the deacon’s family, his professional life and ministerial responsibilities. Deacon Mike Weaver, director of permanent deacons, shared national statistics of deacons and of future local deacons in cohorts 10 and 11.
Another highlight of the weekend was a tribute to the men and women of the diaconate who have passed, honoring God as true disciples.
