30 June 2021

Most likely COVID is here to stay, and I don’t say this to be depressing. Instead this virus is something that society will learn how to manage, similar to the flu. Our efforts, with the help of science and vaccines, will be mitigation and prevention of death. Right now everyone is paying attention to the delta variant, and gamma and lambda variants have also been discovered.

Amidst all of this the church tries to achieve some sense of normality. Daily masses and offices continue, and we hope that further restrictions will be lifted soon, such as singing in church. Many look forward to the day when we do not need to wear masks indoors. Kapahulu has become busier than ever, with many tourists filling the avenue, making it seem more crowded than pre-pandemic days. We have been enjoying the coffee hours after the Sunday morning masses, as we greet each other outside on the back lanai and playground.

Work continues behind the scenes on our properties too. Since the pandemic began we have accomplished the following:

The exterior of the Parish Hall and church have been painted.
The interior of the church has been plastered and painted.
Major plumbing work was completed on the Parish Hall and kitchen.
The dysfunctional old pipe organ was removed, and the balcony was renovated to create additional room for the choir.
The Stations of the Cross are being refurbished.
Additional plastering was completed in the church in order to create smooth window ledges.
New windows in the rector’s office and the working sacristy will be installed this summer.
Seven new doors have been installed in the church.
The interior ceiling of the Parish Hall has been painted.
The parking lot was resurfaced.
The lanai railings and fencing have been painted. Repairs have been made to various gates and fences, although more needs to be accomplished in this area.
The yard of 3307 Campbell Avenue was landscaped.
Work has been completed on the choir loft and lanai stairs to make them safer.

Frankly, so much has been done, that I am probably forgetting to mention some items. Every week different workers have been coming and going, and sometimes it has been hectic due to various projects happening simultaneously. The total cost of this work has totaled $162,500, of which $85,000 has come from parishioner donations to the building fund. The remaining $77,500 has been paid from other parish funds.

If you have not donated to the building fund, we encourage you to do so. If you have already given, and you are able to provide an additional gift, that would be wonderful. Beyond the list above, there are some additional projects waiting to be done, such as automating the church bell, installing new flooring in the church, and purchasing live-streaming equipment for worship. Once the current work is finished and fundraised, the church can strategize future projects.

The pandemic has been a challenge. It has also made many aware of how unique and important St. Mark’s is, hence the generosity of so many. Even with the challenges of the pandemic, we have created excellent momentum for St. Mark’s. In the end, we do all of it for the glory of God.

Please reach out to me or the vestry if you have any questions.

Father Paul Lillie +