Nearly nine months after a devastating wildfire in Maui, the community is still struggling with the aftermath. Pastor Greg Laurie, along with former “American Idol” contestant Danny Gokey and worship leader Leeland, are hosting an outreach event called “Hope for Lahaina” on April 28 to provide physical and spiritual help to those affected by the blaze. Laurie emphasized the importance of hope, which he says can act as an anchor in a person’s life. The event aims to preach a Gospel message and offer encouragement to the people of Maui who are trying to recover from their losses.
Laurie noted how the island of Maui is still dealing with a sense of sadness after the fire, with some residents even choosing to leave as a result. Despite the challenges, Laurie remains committed to bringing hope to Lahaina, explaining how the event’s name is an acronym for “Holding On with Patient Expectation.” He highlighted the symbolic significance of a massive anchor and the surviving Banyan tree in Lahaina, connecting them to the idea of finding hope in God during tumultuous times.
Harvest Christian Fellowship in Lahaina has been providing practical help and hope to the community, thanks to generous donations from around the country. They have supplied food, clothing, school supplies, and housing to fire survivors, as well as offering mental health support and hosting events for families. The church has also been supporting local schools and first responders who were affected by the fires. Young students now face long commutes to temporary classrooms due to the destruction caused by the fire.
In addition to physical aid, Laurie has made it a priority to address the spiritual needs of the community. He emphasized the importance of weekly worship services and Bible teachings in providing support and guidance. Harvest Maui pastors have been trained in biblical trauma counseling to assist those in need, and the church is committed to staying in Lahaina for the long term. Laurie compared the situation in Lahaina to the story of Lazarus in the Bible, where Jesus brought hope and transformation in the midst of despair.
As Harvest Maui continues to grow, they are preparing to move to a more permanent facility to accommodate their expanding congregation. Laurie stressed the vital role of spiritual support in times of crisis, pointing to the ongoing impact of Jesus in changing lives. He encouraged people to seek out spiritual help during difficult times, emphasizing the message of hope and transformation found in the Gospel. Despite the challenges faced by the community in Lahaina, Laurie remains committed to being a source of hope and encouragement for those who have been affected by the devastating wildfire.
