Sacred Hearts School students gathered Aug. 8 in a grassy area of their Kaanapali campus. (Courtesy Hopsing Coon)
From Kaanapali to Kahului, people gather to commemorate one year since the deadly West Maui wildfires
Hawaii Catholic Herald
Among the numerous services and ceremonies marking one year since the historic wildfires that wreaked havoc in West Maui, the Catholic community held its own services commemorating the grim occasion.
At Sacred Hearts School, students gathered on the grounds of their new Kaanapali campus for Mass on Aug. 8, the exact date of the wildfire disaster in Lahaina and Kula. Msgr. Terry Watanabe, vicar forane of the Maui-Lanai Vicariate, presided at the liturgy, which was held in the space that will become the school’s outdoor recreation area.
Christ the King Church in Kahului, meanwhile, commemorated the first-year anniversary of the wildfire in Lahaina on Aug. 2 with a candlelight service and rosary.
The Women of the Cross led the joyful and luminous mysteries. The sorrowful mysteries were led by members of the parish pastoral council. The Knights of Columbus led the glorious mysteries.
A lighted candle was offered as each mystery was recited. Most of the people bearing the candles lost their homes in the fire or are relatives of those who died in the tragedy. The names of the 102 victims were displayed amid the flickering light of the 20 candles.
La Salette Father Efren Tomas, pastor of Christ the King, gave an inspirational reflection geared toward those who were affected by the fire. Father Tomas concluded the emotional evening with a benediction.
From top: Mass was held beneath tents in the campus’ future outdoor play area; signs welcoming students to the new school year dotted the school grounds; the altar was set up for the commemoration Mass; Christ the King Church held its candlelight service and rosary Aug. 2. (School photos courtesy Hopsing Coon; church photo courtesy Christ the King)
