Adventurer Family Retreat: Peace in the Storm
For our Adventurer Family Retreat, we were grateful to have the Anobile family with us for the weekend. Andrew Anobile spoke to our keiki on the theme “Peace in the Storm,” delivering his message in an engaging, honest, and accessible way. His message was simple yet powerful: no matter what challenges we face, Jesus is always with us.
Lisa Anobile led parent seminars that were just as meaningful, emphasizing that the strongest influence on a child’s faith is the example set at home. It was practical, encouraging, and exactly what many of us needed.
Our Adventurer directors, leaders, and volunteer pastoral interns led different rotations where kids experienced Bible stories, made crafts, and stayed engaged through outdoor activities. One group of 20 completed an adventurous hike to the top of the mountain at camp. For many of our kids, it was their first mountain climb, and a big accomplishment. It also became an unexpected leadership lesson. The message was simple: the greatest leader is not the one who finishes first but the one who goes back for the very last person, making sure everyone finishes the climb. That is exactly what Jesus did, leaving the ninety-nine to bring one stranded sheep back home.
Adventurer Retreat takes place on O’ahu, and we are always thankful when our neighbor islands join us. A big mahalo to our families from Kaua’i and Maui who flew in to be with us. Having families travel from different islands to share this experience meant more than we can say.
One moment captured the heart of the weekend. As we were packing up, a child came up to me and said, “I wish I could stay here forever.” That simple sentence reminded me why we do this. Our goal is to create spaces where kids want to be, feel safe, are connected, and can grow in their relationship with Jesus. This retreat did exactly that, and we are deeply thankful to every family that was part of it.
By Ivan Ostrovsky
Aloha and Welcome to Communications Corner
Greetings from the Hawaii Conference Communications Department. Communications Corner exists to share practical guidance for churches and ministries seeking to strengthen their outreach in simple, sustainable ways.
As the new year begins, many people are setting personal resolutions. Churches and ministries often do the same. One increasingly common goal is to address media ministry, something that has grown from optional to essential. Questions naturally follow: Where do we start? What should we post? Why does it matter? Our hope is to help you navigate these questions together and approach today’s communication tools with clarity and purpose in an ever-evolving digital world.
Media ministry: Start with the essentials
In a world of constant upgrades and new technology, it is tempting to invest immediately in the latest camera, software, or streaming platform. While tools matter, effective media ministry rarely begins with equipment. Instead, it begins with intention and organization.
Build a team
Media ministry should never rest on the shoulders of one person. Building a team ensures sustainability, shared ownership, and creative diversity. Each person brings a unique perspective shaped by their experiences and gifts. Invite youth, young adults, and members from different generations to participate—whether by creating content, offering feedback, or helping brainstorm ideas.
Update your website
Website updates do not require a complete redesign. Confirm that service times are accurate, contact information is current, and staff or ministry listings are up to date. For someone considering a visit, accurate information builds trust and removes barriers.
Keep the mission: Make disciples
Media ministry is not a departure from traditional ministry; it is an extension of it. People are still searching for purpose, belonging, and hope. Media platforms simply provide additional places to meet them.
Consider this: if a regular attendee missed an event, what is the one thing you would want them to know? That same clarity should guide your online posts. Social media moves quickly, so focus on one clear message—what happened, what is coming, and why it matters.
We hope these steps help you build a meaningful online presence for your ministry. Our prayer is that God guides your efforts and that what you share reaches those who need encouragement and hope.
By Communications Department
