History of Kapa’a United Church of Christ

The mission and ministry of Kapa’a United Church of Christ have remained a strong beacon of hope and light for over 100 years through difficult times, including deaths, hurricanes, wars, and pandemics, and through times of joy, such as births and baptisms of new members and weddings. The source of our faithful existence is our love of Jesus Christ and to follow his command to love each other as he has loved us. 

Kapa’a United Church of Christ found its beginnings in 1921 when the Rev. Henry G Wakai was sent to Kauai to fill the pastorate of Waimea Japanese Church. Two months after he arrived, he moved to Kapa’a, where he began building up the congregation of the Japanese Christian Church. 

Over the years, Kapa’a UCC has had many changes to grow in mission and ministry and meet the community’s needs.

 In 1958 the current Religious Education building was added to allocate more space for Christian education, community outreach, and office space. The usage of the building continues to change to meet our current needs and outreach. Due to a growing congregation, our sanctuary was expanded in 2002 to accommodate more worship space and have an open airy feeling.

Following the founding of this congregation, many faithful forward-thinking pastors have also been called to continue the ministry of this church, including Pastor Mineo Katagiri (1955-1959), a pioneering advocate for LGBT acceptance. In addition, Pastor Beth Donaldson was the first female pastor called to KUCC (1994-2004) and a great supporter of Social Justice concerns. These and many other pastors have paved the way to becoming the welcoming, caring, Christ centered congregation we are today. 

As we look to the future and grow into this new age, we continually seek new ways to embrace all people in this family of faith. You are welcome and celebrated here no matter who you are or where you are on your faith journey, regardless of race, gender, sexual orientation, age, physical or mental challenges, financial resources, family status, religious background, country of origin, or ancestry. Whether you are a believer, doubter, or seeker, in Christ’s love, we welcome you so that by the power of the Holy Spirit, we can work together to usher in God’s reign of love, justice, peace, and mercy.

“We welcome all, with God’s Aloha!”