Lahaina Jodo Mission

Great Buddha survived the fire

Looking onto the temple (left), minister's residence and social hall (center).

Pagoda

Steps to temple (remains of copper roofing)

Bell Tower

Restoring the Lahaina Jodo Mission: A Historical Site and Community Pillar

Among the treasured landmarks lost during the recent Maui fires was our Lahaina Jodo Mission–a cherished community space and spiritual sanctuary. The recent blaze has deeply saddened us, but we're resolved to rebuild.

A Legacy of Resilience: From Ashes to Renewal

In 1968, fire first claimed the original temple. However, community dedication and the generosity of a Japanese benefactor, Mr. Masaru Omori, saw it rebuilt. For over a century, this temple has been a place of solace and community.

Continuing the Legacy: Building for Tomorrow

Once more, our treasured Lahaina Jodo Mission faces adversity. But with the leadership of Rev. Gensho Hara, who has served since 1963, we're determined to reconstruct it as a testament to Lahaina's heritage.

Founded in 1912 by plantation immigrants from Japan, Lahaina Jodo Mission has been a regular attraction for visitors, it has also served as a cornerstone for the community at large. Not only has it been a spiritual sanctuary for our members, it has also been a gathering place for our broader community, providing venue space for countless weddings, graduation parties, birthday parties and hosting such events as Lahaina’s first farmer’s market, O-bon festival and Lantern Ceremony. The fire has left our entire community heartbroken and devastated, but we are determined to rebuild the temple.

All donations will go directly to the Lahaina Jodo Mission, a 501(c)(3) non-profit religious organization in rebuilding temple buildings including the minister's residence, aid for congregation families who have lost their homes as well as supporting the greater community as it rebuilds. Every gift, regardless of size, is vital in safeguarding our past and future.

How to Help

Donate: Every donation accelerates our restoration journey.

Spread the Word: Amplify our GoFundMe campaign through your circles.

Volunteer: Click here

Celebrate Our Heritage: Share your stories and photos of the Lahaina Jodo Mission. Cherish our history while shaping the future.

Together in Renewal: Upholding the Lahaina Spirit

The challenges are significant, but our spirit is unwavering. Let's rejuvenate the Lahaina Jodo Mission, preserving it as a sanctuary and community hub. Rise with us from the ruins, even more resilient and united.

Thanks in advance for your heartfelt support and contribution to this cause. Together, we'll ensure the Lahaina Jodo Mission's enduring presence!

The Lahaina Jodo Mission, run by the Hara family and serving the Lahaina community for decades, was destroyed by the wildfire of August, 2023, that devastated so much of the town of Lahaina. Only the great Buddha statue remains. Funds are needed for rebuilding.

We are raising funds for the Mission as part of our "Guitarists Play for Maui" online benefit concert, which features over 40 musicians who performed there as part of the annual Ben Verdery Maui Master Class. The Mission was the site of one of our annual concerts, and the Haras and the community were always extraordinarily warm and welcoming. We hope you will join us in helping them in their time of need.

All funds donated through this GoFundMe campaign will go directly to the Lahaina Jodo Mission.

Ben Verdery & John Olson