When Alicia Kozicki of Milan, Illinois reminisces about her last trip to Hawaii, it’s not the warm weather or beaches that she longs for; it’s her brothers and sisters in Christ at New Hope Windward (NHW). Alicia’s special connection to NHW began with an invitation from good friend and NHW member Sharon Zauner to attend Sunday service while visiting Hawaii several years ago.
“We’ve known each other since the first grade,” explains Sharon. “We lost touch for many years but reconnected when Alicia decided to visit Hawaii.” The first trip led to a second and then a third in February 2007. Alicia, who was saved 13 years ago, joined Sharon for Sunday services during each trip and grew more and more connected to New Hope Windward.
During Alicia’s last visit to Hawaii she attended church five Sundays in a row, eagerly anticipating each upcoming service and even participating in the Wednesday night Heart of Worship group.
“New Hope Windward holds a special place in my heart because the love of the people for those they don’t know, as well as for others, is truly genuine,” commented Alicia. “I feel so much at home when I visit. I see that people there are on fire for God. I see freedom in worship and praise when the body is released by God in that area. The worship team truly loves God and worships, and does not perform.”
While Alicia was baptized years ago, she acknowledges that she didn’t fully understand the meaning at that time. With the love of her NHW brothers and sisters surrounding her, Alicia decided to be baptized at Kailua Beach during her last visit. She describes the baptism as being “one with Christ in his death, resurrection and now new life in Him.”
The baptism and her special connection to NHW have left an indelible impression on Alicia. While she once believed that it was unimportant to belong to a local body of Christ, she now realizes that it is essential. Upon returning to Illinois Alicia was able to find a loving church to call her own.
We look forward to Alicia’s next visit to Hawaii and invite her to continue making New Hope Windward her “church home” when away from home!
