3rd Anniversary of the Maui Wildfires: Reflection on Kuhinia 2026
​By the Rev. Amy Crowe
(With Excerpts from the Holy Innocents Facebook page)

It was a weekend of being in community with friends and remembering through story, art, and music.

​[August 13, 2026]  Saturday, August 8, 2026, three years to the day that changed a community forever, was a day of hot Lāhainā sun, slight breeze, talking story, and mele of local musicians. It was a time to pause, honor, and remember. It was also the newly formed Lāhainā Interfaith Council's first community Honor and Rememberance Service that included clergy from Waiola United Church of Christ, Lāhainā Hongwanji, Holy Innocents, Maria Lanakila Catholic Church, Lāhainā Jodo Mission, Lāhainā Methodist Church, and Lāhainā Shingon Mission. 

The County of Maui hosted the Kuhinia gathering on the property of the Lāhainā United Methodist Church at the corner of Baker and Front Street. Being in Lāhainā town supported the remembrance in a way that brought opportunity to gather on the 'āina that was consumed by the fire with memories of souls fleeing for their lives.

One person shared that she didn't really want to stop by, thinking it would be too heavy with emotions. To her surprise it gave her a feeling of love and joy seeing old friends, church friends, and enjoying music.  This collection of aloha surrounded the grief that lingers deep, and embraces it like a big hug.

The day started at 9:00 AM with an offering of overnight oats and fruit, giving the vibe of being where you need to be. There were local lomi lomi massage therapists, art therapy, food from TS Restaurants, and local musicians that brought an energy of healing. ​

With Holy Innocents members

A highlight of activity, in addition to listening to the amazing music, was the Wisdom Circle tent. Wisdom Circles have been involved with all ages and gatherings providing art therapy. Under their tent, folks could decorate t-shirts, tote bags, or aprons. The stencils were of images and messages around the theme of Lāhainā Strong. As I sat decorating a shirt, there was laughter, stories, and heartfelt connections, offering a way for the mind to release and the heart to shine through. 

Lunch of pulled pork sandwiches was served from Kimo’s which used to be on Front Street, and in the heat of the afternoon, slushy lemonade was provided. 

The afternoon was quiet and mellow as folks then began to gather for the memorial service. Several clergy from all parts of the Westside, Mayor Bissen, Tamara Paltin, and families, gathered solemnly to hear the message of the leaders. While the sun shone brightly, hearts were touched during the moment of silence for the 102 who died in the fire. Many were deeply impacted seeing the faces of those we once saw up and down Front Street, in the local businesses, and in the schools. ​

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​As I looked over the West Maui Mountains during this part of the service, a rainbow came forth and lingered until the end.  Pastor John Crewe of Lāhainā Methodist Church and Rev. Ai Hironaka with Lāhainā Hongwanji, gave their heartfelt messages of moving forward. They shared their appreciation of the relationship with the Lāhainā Interfaith Council through the Pacific Health Ministry.

I was asked to speak as the coordinator of the Lāhainā Interfaith Council but also represented Holy Innocents as their Vicar. Joe Esser with Maria Lanakila was asked to give the final blessing and words of reflection. The relationships represented the strength of aloha. Following the service that ended at 6:30 PM, folks gathered for a lite dinner and more music through sunset.

Simultaneously, the Lāhainā Sunset Rotary Club hosted a sacred space up at the memorial wall and tear drop. A small group gathered with the sound of the Pu by a young boy eager to bring us together. Some shared silently and others talked about whom they were missing on this night.

​Walking the wall, a woman came forth and embraced me, telling me all about her friends whom she worked with at Fleetwoods. Her enthusiasm and sharing of her heartbreak says it all – that through these days of recovery, the hearts are still tender.

​It is an honor to serve in these times, walking alongside the Lāhainā and Maui Community.

(Photos from the Holy Innocents Facebook page)