Did you know First Assembly of God in Honolulu started with a simple vision? It began with Pastor and Mrs. Eldon Vincent’s arrival in 1946. They came to Honolulu to pioneer a church.
First Assembly of God’s journey began humbly. The first service was held in the Lincoln Grammar School Auditorium in 1947. Soon after, land was acquired on Lunalilo Street. Services then moved to this permanent location.
Imagine services held under a canopy. This happened on the front lawn of the Lunalilo Street property. A businessman, Frank Fasi, donated a Quonset hut. The congregation moved it onto the property in 1948.
The growing congregation quickly outgrew the Quonset hut. They moved into the unfinished church building. The first Island-wide Convention of the Assemblies of God in Hawai’i was held there. The new church building was dedicated in May 1950.
In the early years, First Assembly of God experienced remarkable spiritual growth. Over a short period, 1,000 souls were saved. This was due to the Holy Spirit’s work through various ministries.
The church continued to expand its facilities. A two-story educational building was constructed. It was designed to accommodate future growth.
After 23 years of service, the Vincents resigned in 1969. Pastor and Mrs. Francis Sturgeon were then elected. Later, Pastor and Mrs. Sam Sasser took over the pastorate.
During Pastor Sasser’s tenure, a significant building program took place. A high-rise condominium was built on the church property. The church was renovated and educational facilities were added. The Samoan and Korean communities were welcomed to hold services.
In 1976, Dr. and Mrs. Roy Sapp became pastors. Pastor Sapp reorganized the Aloha Kindergarten. This eventually became Christian Academy in 1981.
First Assembly of God continued to expand its ministries. Home Bible study groups were formed. This fostered a small-group environment. The church grew significantly under Pastor Sapp’s leadership.
Recognizing the need for more space, the church relocated to Red Hill. The Lunalilo Street property was sold to finance the move. In 1990, First Assembly of God moved to its new home on Moanalua Road.
Pastor Klayton Ko became senior pastor in 1994. He transitioned First Assembly of God into a missions-sending church. The church has since sent numerous missionaries worldwide.
First Assembly of God also expanded locally. It established regional centers in various locations. This brought the church closer to different communities.
Today, First Assembly of God is a multi-campus church. It has a passion for God and a heart for missions. It also has a vision to reach the lost. It remains committed to carrying the Gospel’s light. Christian Academy continues to develop students with a heart for God.