History

Hawaii Baptist College

Our History

From a missionary’s burden in 1965 to a thriving Bible college today — God has been faithful.

“For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, saith the LORD, thoughts of peace, and not of evil, to give you an expected end.”
Jeremiah 29:11

A Story of Faithful Service

60 Years of God’s Faithfulness

1965

The Church is Founded

Ko’olau Baptist Church Begins

Missionary Max Helton moved to Kaneohe, Hawaii with a burden on his heart to see a solid fundamental Baptist church established on the Windward side of Oahu. God blessed that missionary endeavor, and the pioneering spirit that launched Ko’olau Baptist Church would define the ministry for decades to come.

Ko'olau Baptist Church 1965

Through the Years

A Church That Refuses to Stand Still

The church has always refused to remain static. Through the years the pioneering missionary spirit of the founding has continued, with Ko’olau Baptist Church constantly striving to reach new heights through new endeavors in ministry.

Ko'olau Baptist Church through the years

2011

A New Pastor Arrives

Pastor Skip Woodfin Is Called

In 2011, the church called one of its own missionaries, J.D. “Skip” Woodfin, to serve as Pastor. Pastor Woodfin had been used of the Lord to start two Independent Baptist churches in the U.S. and two in Indonesia, as well as help launch a Bible college alongside another missionary and national pastor.

Pastor Skip Woodfin

Fall
2011

Humble Beginnings

Two Students in a Pastor’s Office

Before taking the position as Senior Pastor in January of 2011, Pastor Woodfin had shared his burden of starting a Bible college with the church family. The church voted shortly after his arrival to start the process of beginning the Bible college. He began simply-teaching two students in his office in the Fall of 2011. Every great work begins with a step of faith and commitment to see it through.

First HBC students

Dec
2011

Official Launch

Hawaii Baptist College Is Born

In December of 2011, the church officially voted to launch Hawaii Baptist College. We believe this to be the beginning of something extra special for the glory of God — just as the beginning of the church was way back in 1965.

Hawaii Baptist College launch

Today

Present Day

Training the Next Generation

Today, Hawaii Baptist College continues to train young men and women for ministry in churches and on mission fields around the world. We remain committed to solid Biblical education, practical ministry experience, and preparing servants who will faithfully proclaim the Gospel of Jesus Christ.

Hawaii Baptist College today