Be a Part of God’s Work in Hawaii

The Pu’u Kahea Baptist Conference center, owned by the Hawaii-Pacific Baptist Convention, has operated on the west coast of the island of Oahu since 1949. The main building is the Plantation House which was built in 1910, as part of a sugar plantation. It has been beautifully maintained over the years. The beach is only half a mile away, and the average weather is sunny, with highs in mid 80’s and lows around 70. It is a truly beautiful location in which to serve.

After many years of volunteer couples happily serving at Pu’u Kahea through Baptists on Mission, the Conference Center closed due to COVID in 2020. It remained closed until the fall of 2024. The reopening process has been gradual, with immediate maintenance and repairs required on buildings and the grounds that had sat dormant for those years. This consumed much of the new camp director’s time and energy. Finally, volunteer couples, recruited again by Baptists on Mission as part of the North Carolina/Hawaii Partnership, began to arrive in the fourth quarter 2024. Laney and I arrived before the larger retreat groups began arriving. Our responsibilities included housekeeping (general cleaning and laundry), grounds keeping (mowing and trimming) , construction, interior painting, and floor cleaning/waxing. We also helped with floor repair of the outdoor tent, cutting doors between two adjacent units, replacing five window A/C units, and some exterior painting. While there was always plenty to do each day, our work was typically completed by three o’clock so there was time to rest relax, go to the beach and sightsee on days off.

While we were there, youth groups brought their praise bands, so worship music was frequently heard. There was joy and excitement throughout the campus. Worship services resulted in salvations and a closer walk with God for the young people who participated. We also met some older folks who fondly recalled their experiences at camp over the years. Without a doubt, God is using Pu’u Kahea Conference Center to further his ministry in Wainane. It is an awesome location to volunteer and be a part of God’s work in Hawaii.

– Wayne and Laney Ellington, Community Church of Mountain City, TN

Baptists on Mission’s Hawaii Partnership offers couples the opportunity to make a real difference in the spiritual lives of Hawaii Baptists through service at Pu’u Kahea Conference Center. The work is not easy. Couples should be in good physical condition, self-starters, and willing to work hard. They should also be willing to commit one month of service at the camp. The work is also very rewarding, and volunteers deeply enjoy the opportunity to contribute.

If you are interested in serving, start by contacting Mark Abernathy at the Baptists on Mission office. Aloha!