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TOUCH A HEART NEWSLETTER | MAY 27, 2026
Aloha, Pastor Jonathan!
As Pastor Jonathan Steeper prepares to step away from Kalihi Union Church after nearly 15 years of faithful leadership and service, our Touch A Heart ʻohana would like to express our heartfelt gratitude and wish him and his family all the best in this next chapter.
Over the years, Pastor Jonathan's unwavering support of Touch A Heart has meant the world not only to our organization, but also to the many people we serve. Through his leadership, KUC became far more than just the place we call home—it became a true partner in ministry, community, healing, and transformation.
Reflecting on the partnership between KUC and Touch A Heart, Pastor Jonathan shared, "We like to think that God had a plan." He described supporting our work as "a no-brainer," explaining that it aligned with "the heart of God and the word of God." At a time when partnerships like this were less common, he recognized that it stretched traditional boundaries between churches and nonprofits in meaningful ways.
Pastor Jonathan emphasized that people—not programs or buildings—are at the center of ministry. "People are the heart of the gospel. Jesus died for people," he shared. That philosophy helped create the culture of welcome and belonging so many have experienced at KUC over the years. "It's not a 'them' and an 'us' ... it's together," he said, reflecting on the relationships formed through our graduations, shared meals, prayer, mentorship, and everyday connections.
His hope for the future is that "the heartbeat of Touch A Heart" continues to spread through more communities and lives. "People are valued and known," he shared, emphasizing the importance of walking alongside others in meaningful ways.
Pastor Jonathan's compassion, encouragement, and leadership have left a lasting impact on Touch A Heart and our community. Mahalo, Pastor Jonathan, for believing in people, opening your heart and the church to our mission, and supporting us throughout this journey.
Please join us in wishing Pastor Jonathan, his wife Patricia, and their ʻohana abundant blessings.