Joy of Christ Press

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Easter Almuena — Fri, 22 Jan 2010 17:05:31 +0000

Local outlets

Easter Almuena — Thu, 26 Nov 2009 22:44:18 +0000

Pauline Books & Media. 1143 Bishop Street, Honolulu, HI 96813. www.pauline.org. 808-521-2731; Fax: 808-523-3685; Toll Free: 1-866-521-2731; honolulu@paulinemedia.com

The Cathedral Gallery. www.cathedralofourladyofpeace.com. 1184 Bishop St., Honolulu, HI 96813. Tel: (808)536-7036. Open: Mon thru Fri 9 a.m. – 2 p.m.; Sat 4:30 – 6 p.m.; Sun 7 a.m. – 1:00 p.m., 6:00 – 7:30 p.m. Religious goods, St. Damien & Blessed Marianne items and original contemporary artwork.

Na Hoa Laulima Gift Shop, Rehabilitation Hospital in the Pacific, 226 North Kuakini St., Honolulu, HI, 96817

Lilies of the Field, Gift Shop, Catholic Bookstore, 2050 Main St., Unit 1B, Wailuku, Maui, HI 96793; 244-8030; liliesofthefield@hawaii.rr.com. Store owners: Natalie and David Diaz

Book review by Esther G.

Easter Almuena — Fri, 06 Nov 2009 23:54:19 +0000

Esther Gefroh’s book review of book Serving God Joyfully Right Here in Hawaii

It is a honor and a great pleasure to review Easter’s new book, Serving God Joyfully: Right Here in Hawaii. This book is a wonderful compilation of the best of Catholic Hawaii.

It seemed like only yesterday that Easter shared with me her brainstorm that resulted in this book. Her idea was formed in part to support our priests and to help the homeless here in the Aloha State. She wanted so much to use the proceeds from the book sale to go for their assistance.

She worked diligently and tirelessly right until the book was actually published. Her work involved contacting many, many people around the diocese of Honolulu. I am sure many times she must have asked herself “Is it worth it?” As her friend I can honestly say, “you bet it is was worth it, Easter!”

This book is a Chicken Soup for the Catholic Hawaiian Soul (if you pardon the much used adage and description for an inspiring anthology book).

If you are a resident here in this beautiful place we call home, and especially if you are a Catholic, this book is at many times, the healing balm you may need to bring you closer to our God.

For me personally, it touched my heart and soul many times when I was not expecting it to. Like most practicing/devout Catholics here in Hawaii, we more or less know or know of each other. After all, this is not a really big place. Being a Catholic in Hawaii means you are part of a special ohana. Well some of our ohana members shared their special stories for Easter and for us, the reader.

Easter gave me a copy of the book (almost right off the presses) on a Sunday afternoon. She showed me where she lovingly inscribed it for me. I could not wait to go inside and start reading the long-awaited for book.

Of course, I started off with the stories written by by friends or those of whose names I was very familiar with. I think the first story I read was Pat P’s story of her son who had contracted AIDS. She is a fellow parishioner and I was very familiar with her story and her sorrow. Another fellow parishioner’s story I read that afternoon was Steve Odo’s. His was a story of reversion I had known about and found inspiring because of the many Catholics Steve and his wife Caroline have helped come home. There were many other stories by some of the spiritual moms of priests, homeschooling moms, seminarians, a priest and other people who do a lot for the diocese’s spirituality whose stories I was also familiar with or had heard. But it is an entirely different experience to read their own words in print.

One story was by my friend Dottie M.. She shared memories of her father. Having lost my father seven months ago, this one was one that touched me the most. I know it was hard for Dottie to share her private and personal story because it was so precious to her but she felt compelled and prompted by the Holy Spirit to do just that.

That is another thing I found very moving. Not a single person who shared a story did so out of any vainglory or self-serving purpose. On the contrary, each and every story reflects the sincerity and humility in the hearts of these individuals, who simply love God and want to serve him faithfully and joyfully.

There were a few stories by people I did not know. Some of them really surprised me because they were sometimes stories that I could relate to personally. There was one dear lady who felt she did not have much to write about. She had always been a faithful Catholic and continues to serve the Lord in her daily life. I liked that. I am glad she shared her story.

An additional and personal reflection by Easter, follows each story. This personal touch by Easter, made this book even more special. She engages us and challenges us to really reflect on what the writer was trying to convey through each particular story.

Lastly, you can see clearly how Easter brought our community, our ohana, together. Many of us did our small part in helping Easter when she asked. I know Easter wanted us all to share in this moment with her and all the actual writers. She also tries to help Catholic apostolates, organization and Catholic businesses by listing them in the back of the book. She is an unselfish servant of God who lives her life joyfully right here in Hawaii!

Easter, you are a true blessing and inspiration to Catholics not only in Hawaii, but everywhere.

BTW, there is also a message by our dear bishop of Honolulu, Bishop Silva.

To order Easter’s new book, please visit Joy of Christ Press

Source: Esther Gefroh’s book review on A Catholic Mom in Hawaii

Comments of Richard H.

Easter Almuena — Thu, 05 Nov 2009 07:27:01 +0000

Comments of Richard Hughes

I’ll tell you like it is Easter, your book is AWESOME!! I knew it would be good (because of your Christian spirit!), but I didn’t know it would be so spiritually inspiring. Everything was outstanding, from the cover design by Esther Gefroh, the book design and production by Blaine Fergerstrom, to your extraordinary authorship and coordination through poems and “Easter’s Notes.” You combined diverse writings to make Serving God Joyfully a small but worthy tribute to Almighty God, and that was not an easy task. (I’m reminded of St. Theresa of Lisieux, the “saint of the little way,” who believed that by doing little tasks to serve the Lord, one can play a part in changing the world — and she did!)

I have nearly finished reading Serving God Joyfully, and every time I pick up the book and begin to read, I am filled with divine joy! Others may have the same experience. By “divine joy,” I am speaking of that precious gift of joy one receives from the Holy Spirit, a gift I’m certain you have experienced many times (it’s evident in your writings, and it’s catching!).

I make a clear distinction between happiness and what I call divine joy. My experience is that happiness is fleeting, but divine joy is lasting — if we are willing to open up our heart to Jesus’ love and the gift of His joy. Divine joy is what the ancient historians and witnesses saw on the faces of early Christians who were being led to their death, in the Coliseum in Rome. As you know, such joy is there for everyone, through the Holy Spirit. (Jn 15:9-11)

Personal testimonies and witnessing (as found in Serving God Joyfully) inspire others and lead to divine joy. It may have taken courage for some of the writers to share their inner thoughts, as they did so well, and that reminds me of something that Jesus said: “You are the salt of the earth….You are the light of the world. A city set on a mountain cannot be hidden. Nor do they light a lamp and then put it under a bushel basket; it is set on a lampstand, where it gives light to all in the house. Just so, your light must shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your heavenly Father.” (Matt. 5:13-16, emphasis mine.) Serving God Joyfully allowed some of the faithful to “let their light shine,” which may inspire many faithful Christians to come forth and volunteer for ministries.

As you know, it is through the gifts of the Holy Spirit, the charisms, that the Church is built up. When too many Catholic Christians disregard Jesus’ teachings, and do not let their light “shine before others” in a humble way, how may others be inspired? For many, the church may seem spiritless and not much more than a programmatic series of religious ceremonies. It is through known examples that the faithful are inspired to come forth and serve God through church ministries. When they learn what their fellow parishioners are doing, some will invariably be inspired to join ministries that serve the poor, needy and suffering in the name of Jesus Christ (we are a healing church!). Amen?

Several of the Serving God Joyfully stories were written by those who left the Catholic Church, and when they returned, they joined one or more ministries. Did you notice that their ministries seemed to serve as the “glue” that has kept them in the Catholic community?

What locals are saying

Easter Almuena — Thu, 05 Nov 2009 03:10:15 +0000

Dave P., St. John Vianney, Kailua, August 26

Easter, I really, really enjoyed reading your book! (He must have said this at least four times.)

Windeatte O., Cathedral of Our Lady of Peace, August 25

It’s a good book!

Luz O., Cathedral of Our Lady of Peace, Honolulu, August 24

I love reading your book. I read it every chance I get, even on the bus. I am deeply touched by the stories. Thank you for writing a book!

Bobbie W., Our Lady of Sorrows in Wahiawa, August 24

I am enjoying reading your book very much. I read one or two stories a day. Thank you for writing that book! You are an inspiration.

TJ U., St. John in Mililani

Aunty Easter, I finally finished reading your book. I like it very much!

Patricia K., St. John Vianney, August 22

Yes, I think you should continue doing what you’re doing now!

Henrietta, St. John Vianney, August 22

I got your book at the Benedictine Monastery. I like it! Thank you for doing this, and I am glad you mentioned the BCC.

Kepa, St. Anthony, Aug 1

I already read two-thirds of the book! I like the poems especially!

Bill T., St. Anthony of Padua, Aug. 1

I am buying your book because I hear many good things about it; I heard it is a very good book and that is is well-written.

Merci P., Our Lady of Sorrows in Wahiawa, August 1

Easter, I read portions of your book with the intention of giving it to my daughter before she leaves for the mainland; the timing is perfect. But now I want 2 more copies. Where can I get them?

(@Pauline Books and Media Center in Honolulu, and Cathedral Gallery next to the Cathedral of Our Lady of Peace)

Lavern Lei C., St. Anthony of Padua in Kailua, August 1

I have the book on the Eucharist which you sold years ago and I love it. I still have it and read it.

Mary B., St. Anthony of Padua in Kailua, August 1 (she bought the book somewhere else and brought it to the book sale and signing at St. Anthony’s)

I love your book and it’s so nice that there are stories here written by BCC members.

Rose Z., St. Jude in Kapolei

I love the reflections you included in the book. They make the book holy.

Theresa S., St. Philomena Church, June 19

I love your book! It’s very inspirational. I bought 2 more copies: one for my sister and one for my mother. Thank you.

Veronica S., June 9

I read the stories over again. They are very inspirational. I also like the reflections. Overall, the book is well put!

Elena M., through a writer, June 9

I enjoy reading the book! It’s well put!

Monica T., Schofield

Jodie gave me your book and I love it!

Jean Q., St. Anthony Church, Kalihi, May 28

Easter, I love your book! I enjoy reading the stories and your reflections. If you have another book to sell, just come.

Venny V., Co-Cathedral of St. Theresa, May 26

Just to let u know I find your book very inspiring, I read it at random and am touched by people’s stories of their faith journey. You were meant to do this book!

May 27

Just got thru reading your inspiring poem, “Why Me Lord” loved it.:-) I also love BJ Schreiner, she served with at FDC for 5 years (she’s still going!). Thanks for all you do…

Barb U., St. John the Evangelist Church, Mililani, posted May 25

My son doesn’t like to read but he reads your book every chance he gets. He also reads it during adoration at Our Lady of Good Counsel.

Marie S., May 22

I liked the way you put the book together. You did a great job!

Jayne Y., diocesan employee

Thank you for all you do for the diocese. You did a great job! The book is what we need as Catholics, sharing our journeys, encouraging each other, and drawing other people to the church.

Margaret B., Sacred Heart Church in Punahou, May 16

How I love your book! It was the first book that I bought that I couldn’t put down. I had to finish reading it. Keep writing!

Carl B., Sacred Heart Church in Punahou, May 16

Good book!

Josefina A., Cathedral of Our Lady of Peace, May 13

Your book is so good! Go make another one!

Lita P., parishioner of St. John Church in Mililani, May 1

I’m halfway done reading your book. The stories are inspirational. I like your reflections and poems!

Estrellita A., St. Anthony in Kalihi, March 20-21, 2010

I bought the book you promoted 5 years ago and enjoyed reading it. Keep writing!

*Manang A., at the book sale at St. Anthony in Kalihi on March 20-21

I bought that book at another parish and finished reading it. That book is fantastic!

*Clayton, Cathedral Choir (Clayton won the book at the Appreciation Night hosted by the Cathedral of Our Lady of Peace), March 7, 2010

I am reading one story with its reflections a night and have been enjoying it. Your book came in time for my Lenten journey.

*EJ Resinto, seminarian, Diocese of Honolulu, post date: December 1

Thank you so much for sending us your book. I am enjoying the stories in them. It has given me even more appreciation for the people of Hawaii, who if God wills it, I will one day serve as a priest. Continue doing what you are doing, and thank you for serving our Lord in this special way. God bless you and your family.

*Puna Shorba, Alewa Heights; post date, November 24

Saw you book in the Gallery and got myself a copy. Already read one and loved it. Great job collecting these stories for all of us to read, enjoy, and be edified, blessed.

*Nancy C., Ph.D., Kapolei, November 22

My husband and I read one story a night. I can tell from your reflections that you spent many hours in prayer to discern what to write for each story. The editing was done well. Thank you for giving us a spiritual map.

*Tracy Gentry, Waikiki, November 19

This work is such a beautiful expression of how the Lord moves and carries our lives… and He touches us all in the most unusual ways. It proves to me that Jesus still performs miracles today, and that we should expect His miracles.

*Jerry Gill, Honolulu, November 19

Thank you for assembling this beautiful book. Thank you for Easter’s Notes after each entry.

The whole book is such a joy, such an inspiration. I really feel a part of God’s Hawaiian community.

My favorite story is My Joyful Life with Christ. It is so filled with praise and thankgiving and joy.

Love and joy in Jesus,

Jerry

*S.C., Parishioner of the Cathedral of Our Lady of Peace, Post date: November 12

I wish you “oodles of sucess” with the special book that you so lovingly crafted. I am very proud of you!!

*Debbbie K., Nanakuli, Post date: November 10

I just want to thank you for everything that you have done and keep up the spreading of the “Good News”

*Gary A., Kalihi, Post date: October 28

The book is really good. My wife and I have been reading your book. The stories are very inspirational and your comments add much to it. Don’t stop, Easter. Keep doing what you’re doing.

*Terence K, Moiliilii, October 28

Aloha Easter, I find your book interesting and delightful… Regards to you all at home, Terry

*Liane Aiona, Honolulu, October 27

After reading the wonderful testimonies in the book I felt the sincere love of all the people who wrote their stories. All have a testimony that God lives and he is good… I look forward to serving him continually. The book is very good!

*Suzanne M. C., Nuuanu, October 27

Your overall comments were wonderful….. nice job. Good book. Thank you so much.

*France Morris, Pearl City, post date: October 23

What a nice book — GREAT job… Thank you so much… I enjoyed reading several of the stories already and I also like your comments/reflections after each story — nice touch!!! Very professionally done — Congrats!

*Teresa Fredericks, Makakilo, October 23

Easter’s book hits home. I personally know several of the Catholics who gave their testimony, which makes the reading all the more sweeter. And now I have memorized Rose Zabanal’s prayer that an Italian nun taught her (you’ll have to read it to find out). Lovely book. Thank you Easter, my loving sister-in-Christ.

*Esperanza De Leon, Eva Beach, October 22

Very insightful! I will buy one for my husband to read.

*Janina Cortez, Mililani, October 22

Just received your wonderful book.
…. Talk about a tear jerker! The stories are not only touching but the kind that you must let soak in to reflect on God’s goodness. What a wonderful book and so aptly titled.

What friends are saying

Easter Almuena — Tue, 03 Nov 2009 19:30:29 +0000

Jack O.K., Philadelphia, August 19

It’s a good book! I like it; so does my mom!

*Cora P., California, July 30

I lent it to my friend and she liked it so much. I probably wouldn’t have gotten it back if I didn’t ask for it, after two weeks.

*Cora’s friend and officemate, California.

It is a very good book that is hard to put down!

*Ghee S., Texas, July 23

I really enjoyed reading your book on the plane. Still halfway to go but it made me feel really good and blessed
knowing about these people’s different life stories but all united by the love and service with our Lord.

*Bel L, Tustin, CA, May 19

I’ve started reading your book and I’m impressed with how deeply rooted you’ve become. The stories are faith building…

*Emmy P., Austin, Texas, May 13

Let me know how and where to order your very nice book. It is very inspiring. Congratulations! I love you and take care always!

*Beverly O., Michigan, March 22, 2010

I love it! I love it very much! It is so nice that I can just pick out a story and read it. I am taking it home with me and proudly show it to my friends and tell them that I know the author.

*Nancy Widener, Florida, Jan. 26, 2010: I LOVE your book! They are all wonderful stories! One of my favorites is “Just a Week Before” by John Fielding! What a lovely story! I can only rejoice at the homecoming this man had when he was face to face with Jesus! You know, I was thinking that this could be a really good source for a group study! I mean…your reflections are great for discussions and the questions you ask are challenging to my very core! For instance, one of the questions you pose after the story “A Trusting Master and a Reluctant Servant” by Rose Balayan…….”Have you ever felt that God was calling you for a task you thought was so gigantic that you cringed and wished you didn’t have the nerve to listen to him in the first place?” Now THAT is a loaded question! For me, the answer is not one I’m proud of. I so appreciate how you share about your own journey too. Your book has helped me to see how anybody and anything can be used by God to give us a Servant’s Heart! Ordinary people, doing extraordinary things all for the love of God!

Anyway….I love it! I’m waiting for Volume II !!!!!

*Marivic Lipton, Staten Island, NY: Thank you so much for sending me your book. I started reading it and it is beautiful.

*Taos Wright, New Hampshire: I met you at St. Philomena’s Church a few days ago, and I purchased your book. I am enjoying reading it very much. Your notes and reflections and the stories are most inspirational. And are all food for thought. You have a great gift of the written word and of sharing your faith with others.

It is a very good book! I enjoyed reading it very much!

Book signing and sales

Easter Almuena — Mon, 26 Oct 2009 14:07:36 +0000

August, St. John Vianney Church in Kailua

5:00 PM on Saturday
7:00, 9:00, 11:00 AM on Sunday

*July 31-August 1, St. Anthony in Kailua

July 31, Saturday @5:00pm

August 1, Sunday @6:30, 8:30, 11:00am, 6:00pm

*July 17-18, St. Augustine Church in Waikiki

Saturday, July 17 @5:00pm

Sunday, July 18 @6:30am, 8:00am, 10:00am and 5:00pm

*July 10-11, Our Lady of Sorrows in Wahiawa

Saturday, July 10 @5pm

Sunday, July 11 @7am and 9am

*May 1 – 2, 2010, Pope Pius X Church in Manao

Steve Odo, Pat Paakaula, BJ Shreiner, and Cyrene Almuena signing. Invited writer from St. Patrick Church: Aileen Chong-LeBlanc.

*April 24-25, 2010, Sacred Heart Church in Punahou

Steve Odo, Pat Paakaula, BJ Shreiner, and Cyrene Almuena signing. Invited writer from St. Patrick Church: Aileen Chong-LeBlanc.

*March 20-21, 2010, St. Anthony Church in Kalihi

*December 19 and 20, St. John Evangelist Church in Mililani

Melissa Crisostomo, Maile Domingo and Lynette Tanaka signing

*December 5-6, Our Lady of Good Counsel

Sr. Marie Romano, OSF, France Morris and Rose Sumida signing

*November 21 and 22, St. Jude Church; Sat 5pm; Sun: 7, 9 and 11am

Rose Zabanal, signing

*November 14 and 15, St. Philomena Church; Sat @5:3pm, Sun @7, 9:00am and 12pm

Faye Briones and Paul & Faith Kealoha signing

*November 8, Sunday, Cathedral of Our Lady of Peace, after the 9 and 10:30 a.m. Masses

All contributing writers are scheduled to sign

Invitation extended to all those who helped in the project

*Easter Almuena signs at all Book Signing and Sales

Book Signing&Sale Photos

Easter Almuena — Sun, 25 Oct 2009 23:19:14 +0000

Book Signing and Sale at Pope Pius X in Manoa, May 1-2, 2010

On this photo: Easter A., BJ S., and Steve O.

Book signing at Cathedral

Easter Almuena — Sat, 24 Oct 2009 23:50:49 +0000

Diocesan announcement of the event, e-news dated November 3, 2009

Easter and Summer Sale

Easter Almuena — Fri, 23 Oct 2009 04:22:58 +0000

Proceeds benefit the homeless!

$18.50 this Easter and Summer only

Send you check to: Joy of Christ Press, P.O. Box 179308, Honolulu, HI, 96817.

Thank you for joining us in caring for our homeless. Mahalo!