Students Attend Christian Leadership Institute to Grow in Faith and Leadership

Photo courtesy of Ms. Quemado.

Front row (L-R) : Lauryn Paloma, Nalani Dela Cruz, and Leila Macapagal. Second row (L-R): Ms. Quemado, Riley Malasig, Brianne Adriano, Maddie Pupiales, Sam Atuatasi, Khonor Kapuaakuni, and Nathaniel Balantac. Mia Stringfield (not in photo) also participated in the CLI.

Ten students from Damien Memorial School participated in the Christian Leadership Institute (CLI), held at the St. Stephen Diocesan Center from June 22 to 27. Hosted by the Diocese of Honolulu, CLI is a weeklong, faith-based leadership program designed to help high school students grow as Christian leaders through workshops, prayer, team-building, and service activities.

Throughout the week, students engaged in hands-on leadership training and spiritual formation with students from around the island. They worked in teams to plan and lead key events, including liturgies, prayer services, and community socials. The experience aimed to strengthen their skills in communication, collaboration, and event planning, all within a faith-centered environment.

Ms. Rhea Quemado, one of the event’s Directors and Program Coordinators, supported the students by facilitating workshops, leading small groups, and guiding them through the leadership formation process.

A key focus of CLI is to prepare youth to serve not only in their schools, but also in their parishes and local communities. The program encourages participants to return home empowered to share their leadership skills and deepen their commitment to service and faith.

By the end of the week, students left with a renewed sense of purpose and the tools to serve as leaders rooted in faith. Their experience at CLI not only strengthened their personal growth but also prepared them to take on leadership roles within their school, parish, and beyond. As they return to campus, they bring with them the spirit of service and the confidence to make a meaningful impact in their communities.