Kwong weds Nelson Monday in Honolulu
Right after the clock struck midnight Monday, Unitarian Minister Jonipher Kwong and his longtime partner Chris Nelson became the first couple to benefit from the passage of Act SB1. In attendance were interfaith community clergy including a Roman Catholic nun, Buddhist and Shinto priests, and Protestant clergy from various denominations. The wedding was performed by Rabbi Peter Schaktman.
Kwong, who has officiated more than 50 weddings, serves the Unitarian Universalists of West Hawaii in Kailua-Kona part time, and is the minister at First Unitarian Church of Honolulu.
At 4 p.m. Sunday, Kwong will speak about advocacy for marriage equality and other social justice issues at the Unitarian Universalists of West Hawaii, Kona Outdoor Circle, 76-6280 Kuakini Highway. For more information call 640-4483 or visit uuwesthawaii.org.
Tree lighting celebrations set in Waimea
Big Island Giving Tree lighting festivities will be held from 6 to 8 p.m. Thursday at Parker School. This year’s theme is “Lucky 7” which suggests donations in sevens, such as seven cans of food or seven pairs of socks. For more information, call Rhonda Bell at 880-1984 or Nancy Carr Smith at 896-2239.
Parker Ranch’s annual tree lighting celebration will be held from 5 to 7 p.m. Friday at historic Puuopelu. Nonperishable food donations are requested and will contribute to the Boy Scout’s food drive.
Band plays free Christmas concert
West Hawaii County Band will play a free Christmas concert from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. Friday at Hale Halawai in Kailua-Kona. Attendees are invited to bring chairs, although bench seating will be available.
For more information, call Marshall Tohara at 327-3565.
Church holds holiday bazaar Saturday
The Lutheran Church of the Holy Trinity will hold a holiday bazaar from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday at the church grounds at 77-165 Lako St. in Kailua-Kona. The event will include handmade crafts, gift wrapping, a silent auction and prize drawing, food and pictures with Santa Claus.