Date

8-20-2026

Department

Rawlings School of Divinity

Degree

Doctor of Ministry (DMin)

Chair

Jason Eric Mitchell

Keywords

Relational discipleship, chaplaincy, holistic, hope, healing, curriculum, teaching, cultural, Pasifika, discipleship

Disciplines

Religious Thought, Theology and Philosophy of Religion

Abstract

This thesis project identified that a 9-week holistic culturally grounded training program can serve as a transformative framework for staff development at Kuhio Park Towers. The program utilizes the biblical figures of Daniel, Joshua, Jonah, Joseph, and Jesus(DJ4), as guiding models for character formation and relational growth. Each character represents a 2-week session, culminating with Jesus in the final week to foster relational discipleship and strengthen bonds across Pasifika cultures and community concerns. There is a growing need for chaplaincy led practices that not only engage with everyday community programming but also integrate cultural awareness and biblical principles to support youth development. My topic purpose and goals are to cultivate relational trust, cultural awareness, and spiritual depth among staff. By establishing the foundations for future youth programming, the initiative to equip staff to mentor youth, affirm cultural identity and build belonging especially for youth nurture belonging especially for those facing socioeconomic crises or despair. Research drew on narrative dialogues, surveys, action-research grounded in stress and resilience frameworks, and biblical study. Together these methods position DJ4 as a replicable model of discipleship and community-based ministry within practical theology. The findings equip spiritual leaders to strengthen community engagement and expand their competency in chaplaincy-driven, culturally grounded training.

Download

Available for download on Friday, August 20, 2027

Share

COinS