By the grace of God, this church's Pastors/Elders distinctively teach/preach from a solid biblical foundation of the historic Doctrines of Grace (aka Reformed Theology), using the Holy Bible (Protestant) and The London Baptist Confession of Faith of 1689. In addition, during their worship services (when personally taking part in years past), the following were referenced/referred to and even recited verbally, which was refreshingly unique: 'The Three Forms of Unity' (consisting of the 'Belgic Confession of Faith,' the 'Canons of Dort,' and the 'Heidelberg Catechism'--all of which are accepted as official confessions of many Reformed churches), in addition to the Westminster Confession of Faith (WCF), which is accepted as the official confession by many Presbyterian churches. This church is described as a Reformed Confessional Church. It is an independent Baptist church with no denominational affiliation (except that they may be generally categorized by some as a 'Reformed Baptist Church'--although not as conservative in various areas as compared to those similarly described as 'Reformed Baptist Churches' in other states/countries). [F.Y.I.--Learn more at the church's website].
In comparison to other local church worship services (among the several I/we attended throughout the years), this congregation worships reverently and in simplicity with traditional/classic Psalms and Hymns from a couple of Protestant/Reformed hymnals. However, some years ago, they did include some modern spiritual songs/hymns which are sometimes sung along with the addition of other instruments. In contrast, I myself am in agreement with and prefer instead the Reformed perspective/practices of the 'Regulative Principle of Worship.' Nevertheless, despite my preference, it was such a blessing to praise God and sing along, study, and pray with this particular congregation.
I was so grateful to witness that this is a praying church. Church members (and interested visitors) gathered together to pray along in smaller prayer groups (men downstairs, and women upstairs in the sanctuary) during Mid-Week/Wednesday services. It was a special blessing to be invited to gather together at the residence (conveniently very close to the church) of a hospitable couple who were church members at the time (before they moved on). They hosted the group leaders and participants of a prayer group that gathered regularly, specifically to pray for the persecuted church worldwide (which is rare!). What a blessing that was to witness and take part in, praise God!
There is an Adult Sunday School class before the Worship Service, as well as Mid-Week Bible studies and prayers, and other annual church events. Please feel free to inquire further about those in-person and/or online meetings/events from the Pastors/Elders and confirm the specific dates/times, either before or during your visit.
This is a mid-sized congregation worshipping inside a church building with its own kitchen/dining area. There is ample free parking onsite and at adjacent neighborhood side streets, and public transportation [TheBUS] stops right across the street. Members are a mix of young and old, long-time locals and new/temporary visitors, with seasoned Christians and new believers. The warm welcomes, fellowship, and hospitality were always a blessing!
The church's printed weekly worship bulletins are available for both the Morning and Evening services, which include quotes from Reformed Confessions and past Reformed/Puritan leaders. The church's book table/service is also available, for those interested at the Mid-Week/Wednesday services.
Do remember to bring your own Bibles to follow along, and be encouraged to ask the Pastors/Elders about any genuine biblical questions during/after the Adult Sunday School or after the Worship Service. [F.Y.I.--For those who prefer and regularly use the King James Bible (or Authorised Version), please free free to bring your KJV Bibles along, but be aware that the Pastors/Elders do use a different (modern) Bible version while teaching/preaching. Please do not allow that to deter you from attending or distract you during their Adult Sunday School and Worship Service, but simply just prayerfully read from and write down the Bible texts in the King James Bible/Authorised Version whenever the Scriptures are quoted at the pulpit.]
This is a church that has gone through a few Pastors/Elders in the past, due to retirement and relocation. The current main Pastor/Elder (among others) is the son of a prior (Late) Pastor/Elder. Praise God from whom ALL blessings flow! Locals and visitors from all walks of life (including students from nearby UH Manoa, visitors from Waikiki, etc.) are always welcomed to attend and worship the LORD together there. To God be ALL the glory, Amen! Keeping you and ALL in prayers... + ROMANS 12:1-12 (AV/KJV) + 1 CORINTHIANS 15:57-58 (AV/KJV) + JUDE :20-25 (AV/KJV) + read more