Ivan Toguchi, sacristan, St. Michael Church, Kailua-Kona
VIRIDITAS2: SOUL GREENING
Interviewed by Sister Malia Dominica Wong, OP
Hawaii Catholic Herald
As a dentist, my enjoyment comes from working with people and delving into their stories. Drawing inspiration from a mainland dentist, I’ve embraced the idea that a successful interaction is when, after half an hour, I know everything about my patient while they leave knowing little about me. This principle extends beyond my dental practice and into my involvement in the church. Whether interacting with individuals of different ages, races, or backgrounds, my goal remains the same — to genuinely understand and connect with others, fostering a sense of community and shared experiences.
Since 2015, I’ve served as a sacristan at St. Michael’s, where the awareness of diverse needs and opportunities for contribution becomes apparent upon entering the church. By engaging with those seated in the back pew and talking story you get to know them. Many individuals express a desire to help out in church but don’t know where to begin. By simply asking them if they would like to get involved, I often hear responses like, “Oh really? Me?” The shyness or feeling of unworthiness, the hesitancy to engage disappears. When you take the initiative to lead by example, showcasing your dedication, you motivate others to do the same.
I really enjoy taking care of the altar servers. Father Lio (Faletoi) grants significant autonomy to the altar servers and sacristans, allowing them the freedom to arrange the altar. The children enthusiastically enjoy the responsibility of setting up the altar, with me standing by, guiding their placements. Their initial surprise at being entrusted with such tasks is evident when they exclaim, “Wow, you’re letting me do it?” Witnessing priests and deacons perform similar duties inspires other children to aspire to take on these roles.
My role is relatively easy; I merely hold the tray while instructing them on where to place each item. I encourage them with a simple “You do it,” and although initially hesitant, the kids soon realize they can handle the responsibility with guidance. Even when faced with tasks like lighting candles, they sometimes express concerns about parental restrictions, to which I reassure them, “This is not your home. You light the candle; just be careful not to spill the wax.” The sense of trust and responsibility makes them feel genuinely cool.
During my one-on-one sessions in RCIA, the excitement is palpable as individuals join, bringing joy not only to themselves but also sparking enthusiasm in their parents and relatives. It’s a wonderful experience that tends to ripple through families, with participants often introducing their siblings or other family members to the process. The challenge arises when everyone expresses a desire to serve at the 9 a.m. Mass, and since slots are limited, I find myself managing this enthusiasm by implementing rotations. It’s a delightful challenge to have. Overall, these diverse experiences contribute to a vibrant and interconnected community life.
There’s a fire burning within each of us ignited by the Holy Spirit — an indescribable source of fervor that you can’t put into words. When certain events unfold in your life, others may question your well-being, asking, “Are you okay? Are you on drugs?” Yet, propelled by your unwavering faith in God, you trust this inner fire and follow your instinct, drawing others into connection and community.
