Moloka’i Mission Vision
February 5 - 12, 2012
Moloka’i, Hawaii is an island rich with legends and folklore that tell of epoch gods and goddesses, ancient symbolism, and deeply held traditions. In fact, since they didn’t originally have their own written language, much of their early history was passed on by word-of-mouth stories and songs which tell of travelers in great canoes who guided themselves to the island by the stars to settle it. The popular Hawaiian dance called, “hula” is one way in which each generation taught their children about the gods, goddesses and their people’s history. Legend states that Moloka’i is the birthplace of “hula” and Moloka’i became known as, “the center of the dance”. The island’s religious leaders were known for being wise and powerful and were feared by all.
This fascinating people group was influenced by Chinese sugar cane laborers prior to the 1800’s. Then in the 1820’s, Protestant missionaries came and built schools, learned the language and then developed a written language for the people. However, the influences of the old ways are still very much alive today. In fact, many of the guided tours in the beautiful Kamakou Nature Preserve are led by guides who share the ancient stories with curious tourists and point out the old shrines of the various ancient gods and goddesses.
If you should happen to be a “directionally challenged” person, I have some good news for you about Moloka’i. It’s nearly impossible to get lost. The island in only 260 square miles and is known as, “the friendly island”. There are only 8000 people who live there, so if you get separated from the team, there is bound to be someone who knows somebody who has some idea of where everybody went…and how to get there. The average high temperature in February is 77 and the average low is 63. However, be sure to bring an umbrella because it rains a lot. The average rainfall for February comes to about three inches. But the people have a great sense of humor and the scenery is beautiful. You will find yourself wanting to take many pictures.
In spite of the natural beauty, there are some demographics about Moloka’i that are downright startling. According to one of the Pastors who lives on Maui, (right next to Moloka’i) law enforcement considers 85% of the island’s crime to be related to the drug “ICE”, and supporting the habit. Dysfunctional homes are quite typical. Because the average cost of a house is $800,000 and the cost of living is outrageous, many generations live in the same home. Just for the sake of painting a picture, A gallon of milk is $7.00, bread is $3.00 per loaf and gas is about $4.90 per gallon and climbing. Breakfast at Denny’s is $11.99 and up – whereas here in the states the Original Grand Slam and other specials are advertised as $2.99 – $5.99. As for cars, they’ll have the sticker price on them and then tack on a “dealer markup” which they say is “due to the cost of doing business in Hawaii”. The markup can be anywhere from $1500 to $5500 depending on the model of the car - but the average person does not make much more than minimum wage. As a result, it’s common for people to have a second and even third job.
That being said, this mission to reach Moloka’i includes partnering with Christian churches around the island to reach out to the community. We’ll organize service projects for the purpose of drawing people to Jesus and into the Christian churches to be discipled. Past projects have included construction, soup kitchens and homeless outreaches.
Mission Decision
As many as 50 people who are willing to be flexible and willing to be God’s servants in Moloka’i are needed. Here is a list of ways in which willing vessels can participate alongside the Moloka’i Christians for next year’s outreach:
Construction work
Landscaping
Prayer walking
Feeding the homeless and those in need
Ministering to youth
Cross-cultural Bible study
Possibly repairing roofs or reroofing
Beach evangelism to youth
Mission Inspiration
These things can be donated by anyone in the body who feels led to do so – whether going or not going. And those receiving them in Moloka’i will be very appreciative:
- School supplies (education kits)
- Youth and Children’s Bibles
- Monetary donations to help the local ministry of the churches
Mission Team
Team will arrive in Kaunakakai on February 5th. On February 5th through the 12th there will be individual morning devotions, we’ll assist with cooking meals and participate in outreaches.
The cost will be $375 per person for team expenses payable to The Isaiah Connection, plus airfare and any souvenir money that you want to bring. And The Isaiah Connection uses a travel agent who’s wonderfully talented!
Mission Additions
Be sure to bring a driver’s license or some form of legal identification
Shots. See your health care provider.
Umbrella. Remember, it rains a lot.
Additional Information
Sample Itinerary
Thus, here is a sample itinerary that the Pastor has asked us to work with (subject to change in the field by the Pastor and the movement of the Holy Spirit):
Day 1:
Arrive in Kaunakakai
Spend night
Day 2:
Day 2 - 7:
Day 6:
Day 7:
www.molokai-hawaii.com
God bless you and lead you as you pray about your participation in this mission!
