08/26/2026
Brief History of Maui Evangelical Church: A Home Church For All.
“To learn the WORD wholeheartedly, apply diligently, share faithfully.”
Maui Evangelical Church came into existence through the dedication and faithfulness of former members of the Puunene Filipino Evangelical Church, which was founded in 1966 to serve the needs of the incoming Filipino immigrants coming to work on the plantations.
When the plantation villages in Puunene were closed, several of the church members banded together to start a church in Kahului. Its purpose was to “not only serve the religious and spiritual needs of the members of the former congregation, but also other protestants who were relocated from the camps in Puunene who wish to share the fellowship and spiritual guidance regardless of racial background.”
The lot was purchased in 1966, and the building program began on January 8, 1967. On August 27, 1972, Maui Evangelical Church was finished and was “dedicated to the service of the Lord.”
Among the pastors that served the Puunene Filipino Evangelical Church include, Rev. Pedro F. Royola (1922-1923), Rev. Emeterio Centeno (1922-1953), Rev. Jose Rosimo (1953-1959), and Rev. Simeon Ibera (1959-1966.)
During the transition into Maui Evangelical Church, Mr. Nicanor Domingo served as licentiate from 1966 to 1969. Followed by Rev. Mary Moku as supply pastor, and Encarnacion Domingo, as a licentiate.
The Reverend Walter Baloaloa was called by the church from the Philippines and served as pastor from April 1973 until he was called home by God in September 2012.
In December 2013, the church called Miguel Morales to be the church pastor-teacher. He was officially installed by United Church of Christ, Hawaii Conference and Maui Association on October 19, 2014. After serving the church for about 10 years, He felt compelled to continue his ministry with families at home in the Philippines.
In November of 2024, one of the church’s very own deacon, Ulysses Pacil felt the call to step up to pastor the church. He was granted Licensed Ministerial Standing in April of this year by their denomination and was officially installed as pastor/teacher this past June of 2026, while pursuing to continue his education.
Maui Evangelical Church is still predominantly consisting of Filipino members and will celebrate its 60th Anniversary on August 30, 2026. However, as envisioned by the founding members, the church is now a home church for Christians of various nationalities.
Sunday (English) worship service starts at 9:00am and every second Monday of every month, the church has Ilocano worship service at 6:00pm.
Ilocano bible studies are done every Monday evening (except when they have Ilokano service), as English bible studies are in the planning stage.
Additional ministries include, Men’s and Women’s Fellowship,Children’s Ministry, Ilokano Ministry, and Discipleship Classes. The church presences are seen at Maui Swap Meet every Saturday as they continue to share the gospel.
Contact information: The church is located at 256 Hina Ave. Kahului HI 96732.
Phone number is 808-419-6070.
Email address is [email protected].
