Viriditas2: Soul Greening
Interviewed by Sister Malia Dominica Wong, OP
Hawaii Catholic Herald
I am the fifth eldest of 12 children in my family — and the only one who became a priest.
In 2009, I was granted a green card, but my connection to Hawaii began long before that. My parents had been living here since the early 1990s, and over the span of 17 years, I often traveled back and forth to visit them.
Eventually, I asked my bishop in the Diocese of Laoag, Philippines, for permission to serve on mission in Hawaii. He granted me the on-loan assignment, and I’ve been here ever since — ministering primarily to the Filipino Catholic community.
My priesthood, like any life vocation, has its share of ups and downs. But the anchor of it all is prayer. Prayer is number one. It’s the very root of our faith. Without being rooted in daily prayer, it would be very difficult to face the trials and challenges of ministry.
I also draw strength from my devotion to the Blessed Mother. As a priest following Mary, I believe she walks with me and intercedes for me as I carry out my mission.
Another key source of strength for me is the Eucharist. Celebrating the Mass every day, and spending time in adoration, continually renews my energy and commitment. It is what sustains us as priests, especially in mission areas like Hawaii.
The experience here is different from serving on the mainland. In Hawaii, we have a significant population of Filipinos — many of whom brought their faith with them from the Philippines. This helps us mission priests adjust and feel connected much easier than those priests on the mainland who find it harder to adjust to the American culture where there might be fewer Filipinos.
I will celebrate my 18th anniversary of ordination this October. Over the years, I have seen both continuity and change, especially among the youth.
In the Philippines, the church’s formation programs are strong, and even as young people mature, they remain active in ministries like being sacristans or youth leaders. Here in Hawaii, the context is different.
Many young people have grown up with different priorities — often focused on making ends meet. Church participation among the youth is noticeably lower. I would estimate that less than 20% of Mass attendees are young people.
Still, there is hope. We do see young people gradually taking on leadership roles in parishes. The challenge is how to reach them. I believe in the power of witnessing — joyful witnessing. If they see us as happy people, living out our faith with genuine joy, it may open a door. Smiling, being approachable and simply being present can be ways to connect.
One Scripture that continually inspires me is Galatians 6:9: “Let us not grow weary in doing good.” This reminds me that our mission is not just our own work — it is God’s work. We are simply cooperating with him.
Our calling is to keep doing good, every day, and trust that God will bring forth the fruit in his time.
Father Melchor Palomares is parochial vicar of St. Jude Church in Kapolei.