Reverend Larry Silva, Bishop | Diocese of Honolulu

Bishop Larry Silva's 75th birthday in August provides an opportunity to reflect upon his years of service and dedication in the Diocese of Honolulu. Over the last decade, the Office for Social Ministry has participated in producing the diocese’s award-winning video series on the sacraments, featuring Bishop Silva's pastoral reflections. This column highlights some memorable quotes from these videos.

The first video in the series focused on Baptism, where Bishop Silva emphasized the connection between faith and family. He compared a child's birth to experiencing God's beauty: “Baptism is the initial way in which God envelops us in His love and we are welcomed into the Catholic community, an Ohana of aloha.”

The second video centered on the Eucharist, which Bishop Silva identified as central to Catholic faith. He reminded viewers that Jesus celebrated the first Eucharist at the Last Supper. Bishop Silva described Jesus as “the greatest fisherman” and highlighted that "the literal meaning of the Eucharist is to give thanks."

As Bishop Silva celebrates his 75th birthday, he continues to call all to witness Jesus' teachings. For more of his reflections on sacraments, visit www.catholichawaii.org.