The site of Lahaina Royal Hoike, and the celebration of Crown Princess Ka'iulani's 135th birthday - October 16th, is Waiola Church, which was established in the early 1800's during the reign of King Kamehameha the Great was instrumental in the introduction and growth of the Christian religion on the island of Maui. The tomb of Queen Keōpūolani sits beside the church. Keōpūolani, born in Maui, was of the highest mana. Even the esteemed Kamehameha was her inferior in terms of mana, and had to bow when in her presence. By marrying her, Kamehameha's children would be ensured of the highest ali'i rank. The Wahine Pio had great influence on the people, as she is a symbol of Hawai'i's conscience. She and Kamehameha had twelve children together, two growing up to become Kamehameha II and III.
Keōpūolani was granted her request to be buried in a royal tomb, and still lays at Waiola Cemetary with her daughter, Princess Nāhiʻenaʻena. Also buried at Waiola Church, is King Kaumuali'i, last King of Kaua'i who peacefully capitulated to Kamehameha the Great, thus creating the Kingdom of Hawaii 200 years ago. After Lahaina became the Capital of Hawai'i and the rulers spent time on Maui, Waiola Church was established and remains the perfect spot to celebrate Lahaina's Royal Past.
The Queen's Own has the distinct honor of being the first Honor Unit to stand sentry over a Royal Tomb since the overthrow of the Hawaiian Monarchy. Due to the Queen's Own mission, the unit carries only the Hawaiian Flag during parade and conducts all protocols in the Hawaiian language.The Queen's Own stands guard at the Royal Tomb of Sacred High Chiefess, Her Majesty Queen Keōpūolani on the grounds of Waiola Church and Moku'ula in Lahaina, Maui.
Song: Kawaipunahele by Keali'i Reichel
See more on Lahaina Royal Ho'ike at
www.thekaiulaniproject.com
14 окт 2024
