If you attend Sunday services, and even if you don’t, treat yourself to the uplifting experience of mass in a historic place of worship. Mokuaikaua Church on Alii Drive across from Hulihe’e Palace was the first Christian church founded in the islands (1820). Simple yet majestic, it’s constructed of lava rock with koa wood interiors. In the alcove you'll find a museum featuring artifacts from missionary times. Don't miss the unusual "sausage tree" next to the church. Its fruit resemble giant hanging salamis. Unique, if you don’t mind the drive, is the lovely little Painted Church near Honaunau Bay (City of Refuge). Built at the turn of the century by a Belgian Catholic missionary, its ceilings and walls are covered with colorful frescoes of important Christian themes and events. The lush, well-tended gardens offer great photo-ops, and the little cemetery is worth contemplating. If possible, attend the Sunday service that’s celebrated with joyful Hawaiian hymns and chants. It's at once simple and inspiring.
If you attend Sunday services, and even if you don’t, treat yourself to the uplifting experience of mass in a historic place of worship. Mokuaikaua Church on Alii Drive across from Hulihe’e Palace was the first Christian church founded in the islands (1820). Simple yet majestic, it’s constructed of lava rock with koa wood interiors. In the alcove you'll find a museum featuring artifacts from missionary times. Don't miss the unusual "sausage tree" next to the church. Its fruit resemble giant hanging salamis. Unique, if you don’t mind the drive, is the lovely little Painted Church near Honaunau Bay (City of Refuge). Built at the turn of the century by a Belgian Catholic missionary, its ceilings and walls are covered with colorful frescoes of important Christian themes and events. The lush, well-tended gardens offer great photo-ops, and the little cemetery is worth contemplating. If possible, attend the Sunday service that’s celebrated with joyful Hawaiian hymns and chants. It's at once simple and inspiring.