“If anyone thirst, let him come to me to drink.” These words inspired the name of this sacred place. Welcome to Waikokeola Congregational Church.
The story of Waikokeola Congregational Church begins in 1956. The first worship services were held at Kahala Elementary School. In early 1957, the name Waiokeola was chosen. It comes from John 4:10-12. The scripture says: “If anyone thirst let him come to me to drink out of his heart shall flow rivers of living water.”
Waiokeola received official standing in the Oahu Association of Congregational Christian Churches on June 30, 1957. Reverend Lawrence Jones was installed as minister. Groundbreaking for the sanctuary and a one-story educational building began on September 13, 1957. The current sanctuary was dedicated on May 11, 1958.
Waikokeola Preschool opened in 1961. It started with 80 three- and four-year-olds. Over the years, Waikokeola Congregational Church has grown. It has added many programs and facilities. In 1972, hand bells were given for a Bell Choir. Philippine mahogany carvings were installed in the sanctuary in 1977. A new Lanai was dedicated in 1983.
Mom’s Time Out, a program for toddlers, was organized in 1984. The Memorial Columbarium was dedicated in 1987. A sound system was provided for the hard of hearing. The Heissler Tracker Organ was installed in 1988.
The church celebrated its 35th anniversary in 1992. It also paid off the mortgage on the land. Plans for a new building were approved in 2004. Dr. Christopher K. Eng became Senior Minister in 2005. Air-conditioning was installed. Lily Viray-Wright became Director of the Preschool in 2006.
Waikokeola Congregational Church celebrated its 50th anniversary in 2007. Groundbreaking for the Hale O Waiokeola Building took place. The Keiki Learning Center, a full-time program for toddlers, was established in 2009.
In 2011, the preschool celebrated 50 years. It also earned accreditation from the NAEYC. A partnership with the Counseling & Spiritual Care Center of Hawaii was established. The Awana program was organized.
The sanctuary was renovated in 2013. It was re-consecrated and re-dedicated. The Dr. Edward Chevalier Demming Memorial Library was dedicated in 2014. The Renovated Kitchen was dedicated in 2015. Pastor Jonathan Pak was installed as Senior Minister and Teacher in 2016. Cheryl Larrua became Director of the Preschool in 2018.
Waiokeola Congregational Church stands as a testament to faith. It embodies community and service. Its history reflects growth and dedication. The church continues to serve its members and the wider community. It provides spiritual guidance, education, and fellowship. Remember the living water that flows from this place. It nourishes all who seek it.