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What people say about Church of the Crossroads
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This church is inclusive Christianity at its finest. I wish I had come straight to Crossroads when I moved to Hawaii 30+ years ago. It took me many years to find this church, and it is still the only church in the islands where I have felt everyone is embraced as an equal child of God. Crossroads is a a Just Peace, Open and Affirming (ONA) Congregation of the United Church of Christ.
Two things caused me to immediately love this church: 1) their language, hymns and liturgy are gender inclusive, to avoid use of masculine language for God, Christians and humanity, and inclusivity is at the core of their faith in so many different ways; and 2) virtually every person in the church is actively involved in helping change our community by putting their faith in action, including issues of homelessness, peace, justice, environment, LGBTQ, racial equality, international justice, environmental and creation care, immigrant welcoming, economic justice.. and many more.
All are truly welcome at Crossroads into a ministry that is ONA (LGBT friendly), racially and ethnically diverse, and supportive of women as true equals in ministry and history. This church was formed as a bold new undertaking in the 1920's by students who wanted to establish the first inter-racial place to worship in the islands. The Church provided sanctuary to draft resisters during the Vietnam war. It was the first church to march in the gay pride parade in Hawaii. In 1992, it became Open and Affirming, welcoming into the full life and leadership of the church LGBTQ persons, those with disabilities, and others who have been unfairly marginalized. For many years it has held a Rev. Martin Luther King Celebration and Peacemaker award, as well as hosting Watada Lectures focused on national and international peace and justice issues. Crossroads continues to stand up and speak out for many social justice, peace, and environmental justice issues.
You won't be asked to check your brain at the door. Intelligence and questions are welcome. lndeed, questions and new perspectives are part of our theology of "God is still speaking." You'll be welcomed: "no matter who you are and where you are on life's journey, you are welcome here."
The minister, Kahu David Turner, is a gem: he's bright, engaging, with a prophetic voice and an amazing background in ministry for children, adults, and environmental justice.
Useful info to know: Summer worship services are now being held at 9:30 am every Sunday, in person as well as via Zoom (a Hybrid combination that allows you to stay at home or go to the Church, and both groups can interact with one another during the service). The worship time usually changes to 10:30 during the rest of the year). Free childcare and youth programming are provided. Free parking is in 2 lots adjacent to the church, accessed off of Bingham Street. Facilities are ADA accessible. Dogs are welcome. The campus is a lovely contemplative space of green among beautiful Asian architecture that is influenced by many of the World's great religions. Members include people from many different faith backgrounds who have found home and family at Crossroads.