Maui Commemorates 150 Anniversary of St. Joseph Church
By Wendy Osher
Maui’s St. Joseph Catholic Church celebrates the 150th anniversary of its founding this year. In commemoration of the event, a ceremonial resolution will be introduced by Councilmember Mike White this week.
St. Joseph Church was first established as a parish in Ulumalu in 1862 by Portuguese immigrants from the Azores and Madeira. The existing church, which features an elaborately designed French-Gothic sanctuary, was built in 1911. In subsequent years, a bell tower was added, as well as a gym, a convent, and St. Joseph School in 1949.
Today, the church continues to serve the Upcountry community, providing a food pantry, a preschool, thrift shop, and prison ministry.
The resolution will be presented at 9 a.m. Friday in the Council Chambers.