Our History
Makiki Christian ChurchThe History of Makiki Christian Church
For many people, the two most dominant elements of Makiki Christian Church’s 120+ year history would likely be the Rev. Takie Okumura, founding pastor of the church, and the “castle church” building itself. Rev. Okumura made a lasting contribution not only to the church in Hawai`i, but to the entire emerging community in the 50th state. And the architecture of the castle tower, tenshukaku, has become a part of Honolulu’s historic skyline.
Wayne Tadaki is the Coordinator at Theodore Ogoshi Archives at Makiki Christian Church. He writes a series of historical articles about Makiki Christian Church for the churchʻs newsletter.
The Theodore Ogoshi Archives at the Makiki Christian Church is maintained by Wayne Tadaki, a long-time church member. Wayne coordinates a group volunteers known as the Archives Committee, who are dedicated to preserving the history of Makiki Christian Church. Learn more about our rich history in the articles below.
To volunteer or arrange a visit to learn more, please contact the main office at (808) 594-6446.
100th Anniversary
Makiki Christian Church celebrated its 100th anniversary in 2004 with a commemorative booklet in Japanese and English.
75th Anniversary
Makiki Christian Church celebrated its 75th anniversary in 1979 with a commemorative booklet in Japanese and English.
Mother Katsu Okumura, Notable Woman of Hawaiʻi
“Through poverty and hardships and joys, my wife Katsu Okumura, has stood by me loyally & unselfishly.” says her husband.
The Artist Who Painted Our Ceilings
Our eyes have wandered lazily upward and been delighted to see the brightly colored ceilings in the Makiki Christian Church sanctuary.
The Kodama Fund
Makiki Christian Church at one time had an item in the income section of the annual budget called, “The Kodama Fund.” Who was Kodama?
Okumura Brought Baseball to Hawaii
Learn about the baseball legacy in Hawaii from Takie Okumura’s founding vision to the All-Star lineage of coaches & players.
A Young Missionary, Okumura, Founds a Church
Rev. Takie Okumura was a Japanese Christian minister who founded this church and established the Okumura Boys and Girls Home.
A Mysterious Gentleman From Japan
I did not know until later that this humble & mysterious gentleman was a man of great stature & significance in our community, Kazu Tokioka.
Makiki Christian Church Timeline
Makiki Christian Church began in 1904. Learn about our history through a timeline of events that helped shape our church.
How Our Thrift Shop Came to Be
The thrift shop continues to thrive & operate at the same location, continuing to serve the needs of the people in our church & community.
Homegrown Sister Warriors Part 1
Explore the journey of sister warriors: Julia Motoyama, Tamie Kawashima, & Mildred Kiyuna, who grew up in Makiki Christian Church.
Homegrown Sister Warriors Part 2
Find out about our homegrown sister warriors Julia Motoyama, Tamie Kawashima, & Mildred Kiyuna’s sacrificial service.
The Story Behind Makiki Christian Church’s Tower
Learn about the story behind Makiki Christian Church’s tower building in this compilation of Takie Okumura’s writings.
Why Did Okumura Come to Hawaii?
Discover the journey of Takie Okumura, as he shares why he travels to Hawaii in his book, Seventy Years of Divine Blessings (Okumura, 1939).
News from Makiki Christian Church
Visit the news page to stay updated on the latest news and updates from Makiki Christian Church. Keep your finger on the pulse of our vibrant community and be informed about upcoming events, inspiring stories, and the ways we are making a positive impact. Let your light shine by staying connected with Makiki Christian Church through our news page.
MAKIKI CHRISTIAN CHURCH
founded in 1904
829 Pensacola Street
Honolulu, Hawaii 96814
(808) 594-6446
Office Hours
Monday - Friday
8:30 AM - 4:30 PM
Parking
Ample parking is available. Enter on Rycroft Street to get to the lot or on Pensacola Street for lawn parking.