There are thousands of Episcopal Churches and Schools around the world, from Haiti to Hawai’i. There are three main Episcopal Schools in the islands–St. Andrew’s Schools and ‘Iolani School on O’ahu, and us! 

 

The Episcopal Church in Hawai'i began in 1862 when King Kamehameha IV and Queen Emma invited the Church of England to Hawai‘i. The King and Queen supported churches and schools by gifts of land, together with lots of love and prayer.

 

But how did we become an Episcopal School? Nearing the end of her life, Kate Cooper–who was really passionate about the Episcopal Church, and about learning itself–wanted to show her love and gratitude in a positive, concrete way. Kate Cooper decided to give her house and land to found Seabury Hall, naming it after the first Bishop of the Episcopal Church.

 

On our crest is a Mitre–a bishop’s hat. This reminds us of our foundational identity as an Episcopal School. Our bishop’s wear funny hats to this day!

 

This is the Bishop of Hawaii, Bob Fitzpatrick. Bishop Bob is on Seabury’s Board of Trustees and comes and gives a speech and blessing at our Graduation Ceremony every year.

 

The Episcopal Church is pretty cool, and Episcopal Schools like Seabury Hall share its values. For example, we marry anyone, no matter what their gender. In the Episcopal Church, anyone anywhere on the sexuality and gender spectrum can become an ordained leader–a bishop like Bishop Bob or a priest like me.

 

Episcopal Schools like Seabury Hall value diversity and inclusion, and believe the most important thing is to love justice, respecting each person’s dignity with joy.

 

So Happy Episcopal School’s Week, everyone! This week, let’s celebrate our foundation as an Episcopal School together with thousands of Episcopal Schools around the world. In peace, compassion, and integrity, let us give thanks for Kate Cooper and all who have come before us. In this way, Lord, make us instruments of your peace.