Viriditas2: Soul Greening
Interviewed by Sister Malia Dominica Wong, OP
Hawaii Catholic Herald
Each morning at St. Anthony School, our classroom begins the day in prayer. Students quietly offer their intentions — sometimes for a sick grandparent, a family member going through a hard time, or a friend who needs help.
Listening to them reminds me how naturally children turn to God. They believe their prayers are heard, and that simple faith is powerful. Those moments ground me and remind me that we never truly know what someone else may be carrying in their hearts.
At St. Anthony School in Wailuku, Maui, I serve as vice principal, though my connection to the school goes back much further. For 27 years I have been part of this community, serving in several roles, including dean and teacher.
The school has also been an important part of my family’s life. My two children are alumni, graduating in the classes of 2000 and 2004. Today, four of my grandchildren attend — one in preschool, one in kindergarten and two in the elementary grades.
One of the ways I try to keep faith alive for myself and for others is by sharing testimonies. When people face challenges, sometimes what they need most is to hear that they are not alone and that God will see them through. Faith becomes real when we walk with one another through difficult moments.
I try to be that support not only for family and friends, but also for the students. Many of them face struggles of their own, and sometimes a simple reminder that Jesus loves them can make a difference.
When I look back at what St. Anthony School has done for my own children, I feel very grateful. They were formed here not only academically but also in faith and service. Community service was an important part of their education, and those values continue to guide them today.
After the Lahaina fires, my daughter, who works in Lahaina, spent months helping the community. I hardly saw her during that time because she was constantly serving wherever she was needed. Seeing her commitment reminded me how powerful those early lessons of faith and service can be.
Our family has also experienced deep loss. In one year alone, we lost four people close to us. One of them was my nephew, my godson, who had just graduated and was beginning his life when he was involved in a tragic car accident.
When the doctor told us that he would eventually pass, it was heartbreaking. Yet in that moment, my brother said something that revealed the depth of his faith: “Jesus gave up his only begotten son.” I truly believe the Holy Spirit spoke through him. Even in the most painful moments, faith can carry us.
Because I teach Hawaiian culture, I also incorporate Hawaiian prayer into our day. I remind students that there is no right or wrong way to pray. Prayer comes from the heart.
God hears every prayer, even when the answers do not come right away. That is where faith and trust come in. If we continue to lean on him, in time we will find the answers we need.