The First Chinese Church of Christ in Hawaii will celebrate its 130th anniversary this weekend with a tour of architecture and symbolism featured in its 80-year-old sanctuary.
The sanctuary, 1054 S. King St., is a blend of 1920s-style Hawaiian design, Christian symbolism and Chinese decorative motifs, according to church officials. The church’s pagoda-style bell tower features three tiers, representing the Holy Trinity.
Inside the sanctuary are Nestorian crosses, which add a European Lutheran element to the decor, said Lois Mui, a church board member. Nestorians were the first missionaries, documented in 635 A.D., to bring the gospel to China. Four wrought-iron chandeliers represent the four seasons with plum blossoms for spring; orchids, summer; chrysanthemum, autumn; and bamboo, winter.
King Kalakaua granted a charter of incorporation for The First Chinese Christian Church of Honolulu, which became known as the Fort Street Chinese Church, in 1879.
The church moved from the heart of Chinatown to the King Street site in June 1929.
The public is invited to attend an anniversary service at 9:30 a.m. Sunday, featuring a theme of “Living Our Heritage, Shaping the Future.” A short video detailing the church’s history will be presented. The tour will follow the service.
For additional information, contact church officials: 593-9046.