About St. John the Baptist · Kealakekua, Hawaii
St. John the Baptist Parish in Kealakekua, Hawaii, is a vibrant Catholic community part of the larger South Kona Catholic Church, which includes St. Benedict’s in Honaunau. Though historically linked to the famed St. Benedict’s Painted Church (founded 1899), St. John the Baptist serves as a mission church within the same parish. It maintains active ministries, outreach, and sacramental life, rooted in the legacy of Father John Velghe, who painted the interior of St. Benedict’s Church. The parish continues to serve the local community with compassion and faith, offering Mass, confession, adoration, and educational programs.
- Established
- 1899
- Patron
- St. Benedict
- Rector
- Fr. William Quiamjot
- Diocese
- Diocese of Honolulu
Why belong here
Join a parish that combines deep historical roots with vibrant community life. Through outreach programs, medical services, and faith formation, St. John the Baptist serves the local community with compassion and love. The parish offers a warm, welcoming environment where families can grow in faith and participate in meaningful ministries.
Mass times at St. John the Baptist
Weekly Mass schedule
History
The parish traces its roots to 1842 with St. Francis Regis Chapel. In 1899, Father John Velghe moved the church to its current location and painted its interior. Consecrated in 1902, it was named St. Benedict’s. St. John the Baptist, as a mission church, was established later. Restoration work began in 1983 and major renovations were completed in 2002.
The Painted Church
Father Velghe, a self-taught artist, painted the interior walls using house paint on wood. His work, inspired by the gothic cathedral of Burgos, served as a teaching tool for a largely illiterate population. The paintings depict biblical scenes and saints, with some panels in Hawaiian language. The church is listed in both the Hawaii State and National Registers of Historic Places.