Kauai, Hawaii, July 24, 2025
Photo: Orthodox Kauai The Orthodox Christian Mission on the Island of Kauai welcomed the wonderworking and myrrh-streaming Hawaiian Iveron Icon of the Mother of God for its first-ever visit to the Garden Isle on Saturday, July 19.
The historic occasion marked a milestone for Orthodox Christianity in Hawaii, as over 30 people gathered to celebrate the Divine Liturgy in the presence of the sacred icon, with many attending their first Orthodox service. The celebration represented both a homecoming and a new beginning for the Apostolic faith on Kauai, where Russian Orthodox missionaries first established a Christian presence over two centuries ago in 1815.
“It was a truly grace-filled and historic event,” the Mission reports, describing the palpable presence of the Mother of God during the service.
The Divine Liturgy was led by Fr. Nectarios Yangson, rector of the Holy Theotokos of Iveron Russian Orthodox Church in Honolulu and guardian of the wonderworking icon. He was assisted by Dn. Seraphim Andov.
Orthodox Kauai Following the service, the growing mission community came together for a potluck meal. The fellowship highlighted the transformation of what began as a small outreach into a vibrant gathering of souls seeking the fullness of the Apostolic faith on Kauai.
The Kauai Mission, reestablished in 2017, represents a renewal of Orthodox presence on the island after more than two centuries. The small but growing community of faithful Orthodox Christians, residents, inquirers, and pilgrims has been humbly gathering in prayer, working toward the establishment of a permanent Orthodox Christian parish on the island.
“Our vision is to build not just a church building, but a community—a spiritual oasis where the ancient faith of the Apostles is preserved and offered to all who seek the truth, beauty, and holiness of Christ’s Holy Church,” explains the Mission’s leadership.
The Mission plans to continue monthly services, with Orthodox Baptisms and weddings also being offered to serve the spiritual needs of the island’s Orthodox community and those seeking to join the faith.
Those interested in attending future services or learning more about Orthodox Christianity on Kauai are invited to visit www.orthodoxkauai.org for more information.
Follow OrthoChristian on Twitter, Vkontakte, Telegram, WhatsApp, MeWe, and Gab!
