Maui Intersection Church

Featuring Matt and Lei Jim

Sunday afternoons are usually associated with college football and a relaxing nap- but this does not ring true for Matt and Lei Jim. It is on Sunday afternoons that these two can be found down at Kalama Park in Kihei ministering to their congregation at Maui Intersection Church. This church started as a community outreach back in August 2007, with just Matt and Lei attending the weekly meeting. Since that time, their service has grown to include approximately 30 people, the majority of them being homeless.
 
The vision for this church actually began in Arizona, where the Jims had previously lived for eight years. While there, they were very involved in several community outreaches.  It was at their ordination for ministry that their pastor challenged them to start a church and to “turn the world upside down.” Matt and Lei rose to the challenge, and upon their arrival back in Maui, decided to start a church that would minister to the homeless in Kihei.
 
Every Sunday, the Jims conduct a traditional church service for their congregation. At the end of their service, they always serve a hot meal, and then distribute food bags to anyone in need. All of this food comes from the Maui Food Bank. Before becoming an agency with the Maui Food Bank, the Jims bought their food at retail outlets like Safeway or Costco. Since joining the Maui Food Bank, the Jims have been able to significantly decrease the cost of their food ministry budget.
 
In just four years time, Matt and Lei have seen many lives transformed through Maui Intersection Church. They have stories of individuals who have reconciled with their families, both in Hawaii and on the mainland, and are now living healthy productive lives. When asked about their approach to homeless ministry, Matt stated, “You just need to be transparent and gain their trust.” Matt and Lei have done just that and have gained the respect and trust of their small congregation. Every week, 30 lives are changed, and the Jims not only feed the physical hunger, but also the spiritual as well.