Hawaii - A historic Catholic church in Lahaina, standing miraculously untouched amidst the devastating wildfires that swept through Maui. While the rest of the cherished town transformed into an apocalyptic nightmare, Maria Lanakila Catholic Church, established in 1846, was captured in a TikTok video standing strong and undamaged.
As the camera pans, the remainder of the town, a prominent tourist destination on Maui, appears as a smoldering landscape of destruction. Viewers marveled at this astonishing miracle, considering it an act of God.
"Definitely a sign from God," one TikTok user commented, adding, "He is with you. Hold on and keep that faith. We are all praying for you."
"Wow. God continues to give signs even during the storm," another viewer observed.
Monsignor Terrence Watanabe, the pastor of the nearby St. Anthony's parish, expressed his astonishment at this apparent divine intervention. He conveyed, "All of Lahaina Town has been consumed by fire. It's all gone. The church, Maria Lanakila [Our Lady of Victory], is still standing, as is the rectory."
Members of the church's community also expressed their gratitude on Facebook, with parishioners acknowledging the church as a symbol of hope for the community.
As the tragic consequences of the Maui wildfires unfold, the church's miraculous preservation amidst the devastation serves as a poignant symbol of resilience and faith. The fires, fueled by strong winds, have caused numerous casualties, destroyed buildings, forced evacuations, and left communities without power. The church's untouched presence stands as a testament to hope in the face of catastrophe.