Members of the Kalahikiola Congregational Church in Kapa'au voted unanimously last Sunday to rebuild the historic church, though the method of rebuilding has not been determined.

"Obviously we can't restore it exactly," said the Rev. George Baybrook, the church's pastor. "(According to) county code, we've got to use something besides rock and mortar."

However, they have been receiving about $16,000 in donations from groups, their denomination and individuals, he said, including three large grants of $5,000 each.

The first step will be to stabilize the building, which a contractor was expected to begin Wednesday. It should be about a week before the church is stabilized, Baybrook said.

"Part of it is still standing — the roof and bell tower," he said. "We have a new roof, which is still standing but not by much."

Information/donations:

P.O. Box 159, Kapa'au, HI 96755

www.kalahikiolacongregationalchurch.com