Our History
The Early Years
In February 2000, Jonathan and Debbie Sanders left Hong Kong after enjoying a fruitful and exciting term as missionaries. Because of a love for the Islands, they decided to visit Hawaii on their way home. Sending all their belongings to the Mainland, they stopped in Hawaii for what they thought would just be a few days, but God had other plans!
Feeling a call to stay and work in the Islands, they accepted. The decision was not an easy one as they were faced with a few challenges; namely; no job, no house, and just coming from the Missions Field with very limited finances. But when our resources are zero to none, and God steps forth; He gets the glory! Without yet the promise of a job, the Sanders found a condominium that was empty and inquired of the owner as to its availability. The question posed from the owner was; “What would you like to pay?” How could you beat an offer like that? She met their terms for rent and they moved into the condo.
Shortly thereafter, Bro. Sanders walked into a job that a brother from a nearby church was leaving to move to the Mainland. It was the same complex where the Sanders had just moved. Two cars were purchased for the small price of $500 and they were on their way. God is a great provider!
In former years, other men of God had invested in preaching the Gospel in Kailua, but had either moved on or were transferred by their jobs. The years of their tenure were 1993-1998.
On July 9th, 2000, Jonathan and Debbie with their two daughters; Alexis(5) and Jordan(2) held their first service. Blessed with the support of many of the Island churches, several families joined The Rock each Sunday, offering assistance in music, Sunday School, leading the services, and preaching. Among many, these families include those of: Rodney Acasio, Mike Jones, Joe Brown, Doug Butler and Timothy Bailey. The Rock will ever be grateful to these families who helped to share the load of beginning this work in Kailua.
The Rock is a family that loves God, believes in the infallible truths of His Word, and is dedicated to reaching lost souls and cultivating disciples to preach the whole Gospel to the whole world. We believe in the vital importance of having a strong, united church Ohana(family) and we welcome all nationalities, cultures and backgrounds. We are a diverse mix of local, military and foreign-born saints with a common goal of doing the work of God!
If you are ever in the Islands, come see what God is doing in Kailua at The Rock!
