Tradition That Lasts a Lifetime
For more than 60 years, Hawaiian Mission Academy (HMA) students have traveled to Camp Erdman for a tradition that reaches far beyond three days away from campus. What may look like a camp experience is in reality one of the most meaningful and lasting memories students carry with them long after graduation.
This year, high school students gathered for Week of Prayer, led by Pastor JR, alongside outdoor activities, class competitions, and events organized by ASHMA. Each class arrived showing off its spirit with banners and coordinated shirts, setting the tone for a week marked by unity and connection.
Evenings centered on worship. As students stood shoulder to shoulder with arms around one another, voices lifted together, the sense of belonging was unmistakable. Freshman Ella shared, “When everyone was singing together during worship at night with their arms around each other—that’s when I felt like I truly belonged at HMA.”
Like many first-year students, she wasn’t sure what was going to happen. “I didn’t really know what to expect, but the sports games were a lot more chill than I thought,” she said, discovering quickly that the week is less about competition and more about community.
For seniors, Camp Erdman carries a deeper meaning shaped by four years of growth. Senior Danssyne Roberts reflected, “As a freshman, I was scared of trying and failing. I worried about putting myself out there and missed the purpose of Camp Erdman—which is to be myself, connect with my classmates, and just have fun.” Over time, that fear gave way to confidence. “Erdman has allowed me to grow closer to my classmates in a deeper and more genuine way.”
Senior Kayla Freitas echoed that growth. “When I was a freshman, I was a lot more shy and scared of how people would view me,” she shared. “Now that I am a senior, I’ve grown more confident in myself. I will dance to any victory we get, with no shame of what others think of me.” What once felt intimidating has become cherished tradition. “I entered my last year of Erdman with a ton of inside jokes, memories, and love for my class.”
Camp Erdman is more than a school trip. It is a shared history. It is growth in confidence and faith. It is a memory that alumni still talk about decades later—and a reminder that education at HMA extends far beyond the classroom walls.
By Jocelyn Aalborg
The Heart of Kona:
Faith, Family, and Service at KACS
At Kona Adventist Christian School (KACS) in Captain Cook, Hawaii, the 2025-2026 school year is defined by the hands that serve and the hearts that give. From daily care on campus to outreach across the Big Island, our mission is centered around the call to faith in action.
The pillars of our school
Our school’s mission is built on the dedication of our incredible staff and volunteers. For us, that begins each morning with Aunty Audrey, who serves breakfast to our students daily. She is a vital asset, ensuring every child is nourished and ready to learn. The beauty of our campus is maintained by Uncle Kiran, whose dedicated work on our lawns and facilities provides a safe, welcoming environment for our students.
Our enrichment and spiritual growth are also supported by dedicated leaders. Aunty Julie brings the joy of music to our campus, teaching ukulele and music class on Fridays. Our spiritual life is deepened by Pastor Jacob, who leads the student body in worship and guides our Pathfinder and Adventurer programs. Additionally, parents and volunteers contribute their time to teach home economics, gardening, STEM, and art, empowering students to grow in character and capability through new experiences.
A calendar of compassion
These lessons are put into practice through our community initiatives.
- November 2025: Pastor Ivan and his team came and did a Week of Prayer with my students. He also talked about the importance of serving our community, which fell in line with our Pentecost 2025.
- December 2025: Students distributed blankets to families and Christmas presents to keiki in need to share the joy of the season.
- February 2026: We assembled Kindness Kits with personal health products, Glow Tracts, and invitations to our constituent churches.
- March 2026: Our students are currently preparing to distribute household items, more personal care products, and additional Glow Tracts to our neighbors in need. For this project, each student is responsible for giving out five bags to those less fortunate in our community.
A mission of heart
Through the collaborative spirit of our staff and families, our students are discovering that true education extends far beyond the classroom. By reaching out to our neighbors in Captain Cook and across the Big Island, KACS students are discovering that the greatest lessons are found in serving others with a heart like Jesus.
By Kelsey Workman
Impact During Change at AMES
Some of the most impactful things Adventist Malama Elementary School have experienced this year actually came during a season of change.
Our campus has been under renovation, which meant our students were spread out into different classrooms and our routines looked very different from usual. And honestly, that could have been really hard. But instead, what we saw was unity. Our students, parents, and staff came together in a way that was really special.
Right in the middle of all that, we held our Christmas program during the 11 o’clock Sabbath service. The theme was “A Cowboy Christmas for the King,” and it was such a blessing to see our sanctuary filled with proud parents, friends, and our church family all worshiping together.
Not long after that, our students led Pentecost 2025, our Week of Prayer. The theme was “Love Like Jesus,” and what made it so powerful was that the students didn’t just speak about it, they practiced it. They took ownership of everything. From the marketing and promotion to preaching the sermons, leading worship hula, sharing special music, and organizing the giveaways. Night after night, parents and church members came to hear students preach the Word straight from their Encounter Bible lessons.
What stood out to me most was their willingness. Our students didn’t wait to be asked. They stepped up with confidence, humility, and hearts full of gratitude.
Through all the changes and challenges this year, what we’ve experienced is a school community that’s growing stronger in faith, leadership, and love. And that, to me, has been the most impactful part of all.
By Cathie Workman