Landmark Ali'i Dr. church reopens eight years after earthquake

KONA, HAWAII (HawaiiNewsNow) -

More than eight years after a 6.7 magnitude earthquake crippled the oldest Catholic church on Hawai'i Island, St. Michael's is finally re-opening it's doors.

The October 2006 earthquake caused such significant damage, a structural engineer told church officials it was too dangerous to leave standing -- but with the belief that a church is as strong as its people and armed with a lot of faith, St. Michael's was rebuilt in its iconic pink color.

"It is just an awesome joy that now we can come back home," exclaimed Father Konelio "Lio" Faletoi, St. Michael's pastor.

St. Michael's church bells are ringing once again -- and not just any bell, but the original.

"The bell is from 1852 and it was from the foundry in Paris, France," described Father Lio, as he likes to be called.

The new church also features the original stained glass windows.

St. Michael the Archangel Church was built 175 years ago by two missionaries, but it was too small, so it was redone in 1850.

"Father Marechal came and built the church that lasted all that time and got damaged in the earthquake that we had to take down, and his request was at his death that he be buried in his beloved church," said Father Lio, pointing to the headstone displayed prominently at the front of the sanctuary area.

Officials say it was important to make sure his final resting place was included in the new church, which can now accommodate up to 600 parishioners inside -- with room to expand outside.

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Landmark Ali'i Dr. church reopens eight years after earthquake