Hawaii has a rich and longstanding history with religious diversity. Originating between 500 and 1300 AD, when the first Tahitians and Pacific islanders first landed, early Hawaiians embraced many deities and spirits, including the belief that spirits can be found in animals, the ocean, plants, and the sky.
Today, Christianity is the dominant religion, with nearly half of all residents practicing some form of Christianity. Even so, in this diverse environment, it's hard to say that there is one dominant Christian denomination in Hawaii. Eastern religions such as Buddhism, Shinto, Hinduism, Islam, and others are also prevalent here, providing a mission field that is both in need of strong Christian men and women, and one that provides a great deal of support.
If you have a heart for the gospel, to spread it to those in need as well as encourage those who believe, if you long to serve your community, preach God's word, and lead others towards a better understanding and stronger relationship with Christ - if you sense that God is calling you to serve the poor and teach others how to love their neighbors as themselves – then a degree in Christian ministry will not only open doors of opportunities for service, it will provide you the tools and knowledge necessary for the job.
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Here you will find an easy step-by-step guide on how to become a pastor in Hawaii, offering everything you need to understand the educational and experiential qualifications of a pastor, and even the steps involved in starting your own church or ministry.
Steps to Become a Pastor in Hawaii
Step 1. Earn a Bachelor's Degree in Christian Ministry, Pastoral Studies or Other Similar Major in Hawaii
One of the primary steps to becoming a pastor in Hawaii is to gain the theological and secular education it takes to hold yourself out as a responsible and capable Christian leader. For most, that starts with earning a bachelor's degree in a Christian-centered field of study such as Biblical studies, Christian leadership, theology, pastoral ministry or other similar four-year degree.
A bachelor's degree with a Biblically-focused major will provide you not only a greater knowledge and understanding of the Word, but it will also teach you how to apply it in the world so you can embrace and support the people of your congregation, and beyond.
The ability to connect and communicate with people from different backgrounds, faiths and walks of life is a crucial part of becoming a pastor in a place with as much socio-economic, racial and religious diversity as Hawaii. According to the US Census Bureau, 37.6% of Hawaiians identify as Asian, 24.2% as multi-racial, and about 13% as Hispanic, Latino, Black or African American.
A bachelor’s degree related to some area of Christian ministry and theology will put you in touch with a world of diverse yet likeminded professors and students provide you the knowledge and skills needed to effectively communicate, to empathize and relate, and to accurately apply the Word of God to people and cultures different than your own.
Step 2. Look for Ministry Jobs and Gain Experience Serving the People and Churches of Hawaii
Hawaii is a unique place that appeals to people of all ages, each bringing their unique hopes and dreams, needs and support. With just under 20% of islanders being 65 or older and more than 21% younger than 19, there is no shortage of opportunities to design your ministry to serve the unique needs of people from either end of the age spectrum. Whether providing Sunday school and youth ministry services, or guiding the elderly through the final stage of their time here on Earth, there is a place for you to attend to the spiritual growth of your brothers and sisters here in Hawaii.
With chronic homelessness affecting some 25% of adults here, Hawaii ranks among the states with the highest levels of homeless in the US. Hawaii's Health Data Warehouse identifies an inability to pay rent, loss of employment, and substance abuse as being the chief causes of homelessness in the state. Providing support, food and shelter, clothing and kindness to those in need are pillars of the Christian faith and essential to the teachings of Christ. In Hawaii, there are plenty of opportunities for you and your ministry to exercise such teachings.
You are a unique individual with skills, talents and resources that can be used in a variety of ways. A life of service encompasses the many ways you can support a church as it works to serve congregants and community, as well as the many gifts and talents you bring. Finding a unique fit is easier than you think, if only you know where to look.
Explore Ministry Jobs with One of Hawaii's Many Churches
Located on Oahu, Revolution Hawaii (REVHI) is a ministry that lives and works by the motto “keeping it simple doesn't mean keeping it shallow.” They also believe everyone has a heart and desire to change the world, they just need to be shown the way. Through building relationships with young adults, loving and serving the poor and needy, or providing pandemic relief, REVHI is an incarnational, hands-on ministry that's making a real difference in the lives of people in their congregation, and the broader community. And they are not alone.
Below is a list of the larger, more prominent churches of Hawaii, providing a variety of opportunities for you to begin your life of service:
- Calvary Chapel of Honolulu in Aiea
- First Assembly of God in Honolulu
- Hope Chapel in Kihei
- Hope Chapel Kapolei in Kapolei
- King's Cathedral Maui in Kahului
- New Hope Christian Fellowship in Honolulu
- New Hope Leeward in Waipahu
- Word of Life Christian Center in Honolulu
Salary Expectations for Church Ministry Jobs in Hawaii
According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, working in non-leadership positions for Hawaii's churches in roles that can include everything from media specialist to worship coordinator comes with an average salary of $34,000, with the top ten percent earning $40,000 a year or more.
Step 3. Earn a Master of Divinity (MDiv) or Similar Graduate Degree in Hawaii and Establish Your Role in Christian Leadership
Hawaii does not have licensing requirements for pastors or other members of clergy, leaving the requirements of becoming a pastor to the discretion of each church or denomination. Most churches, however, will require a Master of Divinity (MDiv) or similar graduate degree that provides an in-depth understanding of scripture, theology, and church leadership.
Knowledge of the Bible, however, is not enough. Especially when it comes to ministry. In order to connect with the people you hope to lead, to deliver a message relevant in today's world, and to truly make a difference, you need to be with people, working side-by-side with them, and living life with them. You need to go surfing with them.
After earning his MDiv in the early 1990's Blaine “Sumo” Sato, known as the “Surfer's Savior” combined his education with his love and passion for surfing, and spent his life spread his unwavering love for Christ. He used his education and biblical studies to understand and grow in Christ; he used his life and experiences to connect with the people.
As you continually work towards leadership roles, find ways to serve in your local church or ministries. Not only will these experiences provide you a greater understanding of the holistic nature of ministry, but it will also open doors of opportunity for future ministry as you work with and serve alongside other community leaders.
Salary Expectations for Pastor Jobs in Hawaii
The average salary for a clergy member in Hawaii, according to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, is $50,000, with the top ten percent earning more than $78,160.
Religious directors in Hawaii are paid slightly less, earning an annual average of $43,920 with the top ten percent earning $58,230 or more.
Step 4. Consider Forming a Christian Ministry of Your Own in Hawaii
There are immediate and obvious benefits to joining an established church. But so too are there in starting your own. The process of legally establishing a Christian ministry, however, can be long and daunting – especially if you are not familiar with legal procedures.
If you are interested or feeling called to start a church or ministry in Hawaii, the following steps are required:
Submit an Article of Incorporation:
Every church must have a name. Which, if you have made it this far in the process, you probably already have one. Make sure, however, that the name is not already in use by checking Hawaii’s secretary of state office. If available, great! If not, back to the drawing board.
Once your name is solidified, draft and file your Articles of Incorporation (DNP – 1) with the Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs (DCCA), Business Registration Division. You can file your registration online, by email, regular mail, or fax.
If your church or ministry will be accepting donations, an additional registration with the Attorney General’s Charity Registration site is also required.
Obtain a Federal Employer Identification Number (F.E.I.N.) from the IRS
This number is your tax identification number, allowing you to open a bank account for the church or ministry, providing you the availability to receive donations and spend money separate from your personal account.
Once you have your Federal Employee Number, and before you open your bank account, you will need to apply for tax-exempt status, or 501(c)(3) – see below, in step 5.
Create Bylaws for your Church or Ministry
Bylaws are the legal document for your church or ministry and foundation for your church’s First Amendment right, allowing your freedom and separation from public accommodation laws such as same-sex marriage, transgender laws, etc.
This document is ever evolving and must be updated regularly to remain relevant. As the laws in legislation change, so to must your bylaws.
Establish Policies and Procedures
While bylaws set the structure of the rules, policies and procedures are the fleshing out of those rules as they help govern the day-to-day activities and decisions for the church leaders. Policies and Procedures keep your organization accountable to your vision and mission and in compliance with the IRS.
These policies and procedures include, but are not limited to:
- Conflict of interest policy (outlines how conflict and discipline will be conducted)
- Accountable reimbursement policy (how will you reimburse your employees for expenses?)
- Benevolence policy (highlighting who is responsible for the Benevolence Fund)
- Indemnification policy (protects property owners from obscure legal issues)
Apply for 501(c)(3) Tax-Exempt Status
This step requires time and attention to detail. Hiring a professional is often encouraged as they are able to complete your application (40-70 pages long) accurately and timely, relieving you of a great deal of potentially misplaced time and energy. The IRS estimates it will take between 100 and 150 hours to complete Form 1023.
Once you’ve received your tax exemption status, you need to obtain your Hawaii state tax exemption, which may include income, property, sales, and more. This form can be found at Hawaii’s Department of Taxation.
Register for Charitable Solicitation
No two churches or ministries are alike, which means registering for charitable solicitation can change, depending on the size and activities. As a nonprofit organization who will be soliciting donations, the state of Hawaii may require that you register with Hawaii’s attorney general. Make sure to check for potentially additional rules and expectations, as fitting to your church or ministry, and ensure you are filing all the appropriate paperwork.
Becoming a church leader, furthering your education, or starting your own church requires much more than time and money. They require guidance, wisdom, and conviction. As you begin or continue on this journey, it is crucial that you surround yourself with Godly, wise, and intentional men and women who can support you, encourage you, and pray for you.
Good luck in your coming journey! And God bless.
2020 US Bureau of Labor Statistics salary figures and job market trends for Religious Workers, Church Directors, and Clergy based on state data, not school-specific information. Conditions in your area may vary. Data accessed January 2022.
Christian Colleges in Hawaii
Chaminade University of Honolulu School of Humanities, Arts and Design
Master of Pastoral Theology (campus)
Pacific Rim Christian University
BA in Theological Studies (campus)
BA in Christian Ministry (campus, online)
BA in Bible and Pastoral Ministry (campus)
BA in Christian Counseling (campus)
Master of Divinity (campus)
- Chaplaincy
Other areas:
MA in Christian Studies (campus)
MA in Christian Leadership (campus)
