Wānanalua Congregational Church — Attraction in Maui

In March 2017, we worshipped at Wananalua Congregational Church in Hana. A fair amount of the service was in Hawaiian, so I had to (poorly) hum the tune since I could not read/pronounce the words quickly enough to keep up with the songs. It was a small congregation, and 25-30% of attendees were visitors, but everyone was really friendly, and everyone was invited to a coffee social immediately after the service. There were several things that stood out to me. Visitors were greeted at the beginning of the service, and we were asked to stand and introduce ourselves. I wasn’t quite prepared for that, but we both stood and Scott graciously and smoothly introduced us as visitors on vacation from Alaska. During the children’s portion of the service, the congregation has a song that they sing as the children are gathering…. I thought it was a lovely way to welcome children to worship and it reminds them how very important and precious they are to the congregation (and God). Worship closed with a song, then everyone forms a big circle holding hands (around the pews) for a final blessing. I liked this- it was a way to remind me that we were worshipping in community with others. Honestly, it was the first time I had actually taken the time to look at those around me since I had been wholly focused on my own worship experience. Overall, it was a great congregation and we would attend church there again if/when we visit Hana...

Founded in 1838 it is on of the oldest churches that is still standing on the Hana side of the...

Our beautiful church in our beautiful community! My mother and I...