"There is no such thing as a perfect church," is something a mentor said 20 years ago. She continued, "If you find a perfect church, don't join it because you'll mess it up!" I've valued those words through the years as I've moved around and sought a church to plug into.
What I can say about New Hope Manoa is that I've met a lot of great people who genuinely try to love others, and I find the teaching to be biblically based. I love the kupuna (elders) who try their best to model faithfulness and kindness. The worship is not flashy, but heartfelt. I especially appreciate when the youth lead worship or when a single aunty is on stage with a guitar because she wants to help people connect with Jesus. Pastor Rod helps the church not just understand scripture, but try to live it out. He has a heart of a shepherd, whether visiting someone who is sick or texting someone who hasn't been around in a while to check in. I love the "Show God, Share Aloha" ministry that helps people with food, utilities, health needs, etc.
Every church has its problems like my mentor said 20 years ago, but the goal is to try to be more like Jesus in humility and love. And I see that in many people at New Hope Manoa.
Services are Sundays at 9:30am at the auditorium at Mid-Pac in Manoa. Lots of parking available! Dress up or wear a tank top and board shorts. Either way, people will try to welcome you well. read more