Special to the Herald
This year marks the 133rd year of the Holy Ghost Feast, celebrating “God’s Enduring Love” on Pentecost weekend at Holy Ghost Church in Kula, Upcountry Maui.
The festivities will take place on May 23 from 9 a.m.-8:30 p.m., and on May 24 from 8:30 a.m.-4 p.m.
The commemoration was started by Portuguese immigrants, many who came from the Azores islands. They brought with them the devotion to the Holy Ghost and the traditions of Queen Isabel, also called St. Elizabeth of Portugal, who lived there from 1271 to 1336.
The original Holy Ghost Feast was held during her reign. She personally served 12 people at her table and thus the tradition of the free queen’s meal served every year on Pentecost at the Holy Ghost Feast began.
The meal will take place this year on May 24 from 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
Another tradition is that of the crown, which was first brought over from Portugal and given to Holy Ghost Church in honor of St. Elizabeth.
In the early days of the feast, seven families were chosen, and one family a week between Easter and Pentecost would hold the crown and pray for prosperity, good harvest and rain.
The tradition was reintroduced this year: Seven widows who have worked for the feast in the past have each taken care of the crown for a week, praying for the success of the event. They will be honored at Mass on Pentecost Sunday, May 24, at 8:30 a.m.
Live entertainment during the Holy Ghost Feast will span the weekend; for the lineup, visit www.kulacatholiccommunity.org. There will also be a live auction on both days, Portuguese dancers on Sunday, a live animal auction on Sunday, an expanded keiki zone, a farmers market, a plant booth and more.
The range of delicious foods on offer will include freshly cooked malasadas, Portuguese sweet bread, baked goods, jams and jellies, and food booths offering a la carte items and plate lunches.
Go to www.kulacatholiccommunity.org or visit the Kula Catholic Community Facebook page for more information.
Above: A person representing St. Elizabeth releases a dove during a procession after Pentecost Mass at a recent Holy Ghost Feast in Kula, Upcountry Maui. This year’s festivities take place May 23-24. (Courtesy Mary Ann Turek)