Queen Lili'uokalani Birthday Commemoration at Soldier's Chapel
The ‘Iolani Guild celebrated Queen Lili‘uokalani’s Birthday on Saturday, August 31, 2019, at the Soldier’s Chapel, Schofield, Wahiawa.
This was the fifth year the ‘Iolani Guild has celebrated the Queen’s birthday at the Chapel, to honor her generosity in founding it. In 1913, Lili‘uokalani raised money for the construction of the Soldiers Chapel on Schofield Barracks. It was the first church on the post, and housed a bell donated by the 5th U.S. Cavalry Regiment in 1912. It’s unclear why the Queen chose to give the church to soldiers who were from the country that played a role in her overthrow, but most believe it was an example of her generosity and ability to forgive.
The event, which has been growing each year, was attended by members of the Royal Societies, as well as Bishop Fitzpatrick and The Rt. Rev. Carl Wright. Bishop Suffragan for Armed Forces and Federal Ministries.
Helping to make the long drive from town easier, a bus was chartered that brought attendees from the Cathedral of St. Andrew to Soldiers Chapel.
During the service, historian Kenneth Hays talked about the history of the Chapel and Schofield Barracks. Ho'okupu of lei and flowers were presented to the Queen, her portrait draped and decorated with the beautiful offerings. A special addition this year was a gift of song by the children of St. Stephen's Episcopal Church.
