Aiea United Methodist Church

"Remembering the beginnings connects today's members to the pioneers who set forth on a faith venture during a time of seemingly insurmountable socio-economic conditions. Their faith and sacrifice laid a strong foundation." AUMC Member

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Church History

Bell Tower

High above the sanctuary the bell rings, proclaiming the Sabbath observance and gathering worshipers. Sounds of history resonate with the ringing of the bell today, as the same bell rang for the earliest members. The bell was installed at the original church site (now the Aiea Shopping Center upper level) and then moved to the present Laulima Street site.

Rainbow Church

We identify ourselves as the Rainbow Church. A rainbow frequently arcs across the Aiea sky, reminding us of God's everlasting covenant. Our church's rainbow of racial, ethnic, and cultural heritages also bears witness to God's faithfulness to all.

Rainbow people

Our church is a place where ALL of God's children are welcome and find ohana (family) and aloha (love). In our diversity we find unity as sisters and brothers in Christ. We invite you to share the journey with us.

What Our Members Say

  • "I especially enjoy not only the friendliness of the people but also all the different ethnicities who get along so well together."

Living Treasures

Since the church's founding in 1900, many people have worked faithfully, often at great personal sacrifice, to make possible a future for this church. Inspired by the way long-time member John Nagano lived his faith daily in his professional, family, and community lives, each year the church recognizes those who continue his legacy.

We also recognize the treasures of our military and other short-term members. We are blessed by their ministries.

Timeline

  • 1900: Aiea Japanese Methodist Church established with 12 charter members.

    • Original Church

  • 1902: Dedication of the first church building, 20' x 40', at the site of what is now the Aiea Shopping Center.
  • 1915: English language service introduced; Sunday school enrollment 60; membership 32.
  • 1919: Filipino language work initiated.
  • 1924: Aiea Church becomes part of a circuit, from Kalihi Valley to the present Hickam Field.
  • 1941: Laulima Street site is purchased from Honolulu Plantation for $1. Construction is underway when bombs fall on Dec. 7, 1941.
  • 1942: New building on Laulima Street is dedicated.
  • 1948: Church name is changed to Aiea Community Church.
  • 1954: Aiea Community Church becomes self-supporting.
  • 1955: Three-quarters of an acre adjacent to the church property is purchased.
  • 1964: Church name is changed to Aiea Methodist Church.
  • 1968: Construction of a new sanctuary begins.

    • New Construction

  • Oct. 1969: Consecration service is held for the new facilities.
  • 1969: Facilities are shared with St. Timothy's Episcopal Church for about a year.
  • 1972: Church name is changed to Aiea United Methodist Church.
  • 1975: Korean congregation, as Aiea Korean United Methodist Church, shares sanctuary.
  • May 1980: John Nakano strikes the match for the mortgage burning service.
  • 1983: Aiea Korean UMC builds the social hall.
  • 1987: Ministry to Institute for Human Services (IHS) started. It continues today.
  • 1988: Church's 88th year celebrated, together with the Hawaii District Centennial.
  • 1997: Samoan language minister, Joseph Siofele, is appointed.
  • 2000: Centennial celebration.

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Samoan Congregation

 

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