We are a small staff with a big vision of building God’s kingdom on Maui by helping people say “yes” to God. We’d love to meet you in-person, but for now you can get to know us via our bios below!
Stephen Füssle - Lead Pastor
God radically encountered me at the age of twenty while I was living on Maui and attending YWAM (Youth with a Mission). Although I came with selfish motives, God had other plans. Plans to introduce me to the person of Jesus Christ. While on a mission’s trip to China, I had a defining moment where I relinquished control of my life to the Lord in complete surrender. The power of God was undeniable, and I immediately saw changes in my life. Where there once was hate, God removed it and replaced it with waves of His love and forgiveness.
Shortly after, I received a degree in Biblical Studies/Pastoral Leadership from Vanguard University and served on staff at The Crossing Church in Costa Mesa, CA. The best part, I met the woman of my dreams, my incredible wife Amber. Later, we would answer God’s calling on our lives to plant The Awakening in Maui. We’ve had the privilege of serving our community, but I could never imagine the joy and fulfillment I would experience sharing God’s love with others.
Fun Facts About Me:
Favorite Local Eats: Wing Kingz, MonkeyPod, Paia Fish Market
Go-To Coffee Order: Hot Latte (½ Caf, ½ Decaf)
Favorite Hobby: Brazilian Jui Jitsu
Amber Füssle- Worship Pastor
From a young age I have always loved to sing, but when I was thirteen is when I discovered my deeper love for worship. That’s when I picked up my first guitar and began teaching myself how to play. Before I knew it, I was leading worship in small groups, school chapels and Sunday services. Many years later, it still never gets old. There is no greater honor and privilege than leading others in His presence and I get to do it every Sunday! The sweetest part is that I get to serve God alongside my husband and our five beautiful children. For me and my household we will serve the Lord!
Fun Facts About Me:
Favorite Local Eats: Suns Out Buns Out, Pita Paradise, Oao Sushi
Go-To Coffee Order: Almond Milk Latte
Favorite Hobby: Being a Gym Rat
Paco Lopez - Family Life Pastor
Aloha! I am a former youth and college pastor and am honored to serve at The Awakening Church as the Family Life Pastor. I have a passion for burritos (I am a self-proclaimed burrito connoisseur), good coffee, and teaching the bible. I'm married to Bekah, our beautiful children's pastor, and we have two amazing kids, Mila and Jayden, who fill our home with love, laughter, and a little chaos.
If you see me around, let me know your favorite spot for Mexican food and ask me why Ephesians 1 is my favorite passage of the Bible!
Fun Facts About Me:
Favorite Local Eats: Tiffany’s, Okus, Lahaina Brewing Company
Go-To Coffee Order: Iced Americano, Coconut Americano (Lava Java)
Favorite Hobby: Outrigger Canoeing, Hitting the Gym
Bekah Lopez - Childrens Pastor
Working with children has been a passion of mine since my first job as a gymnastics teacher. What I enjoy most about being a part of Kids Ministry is sharing the truth that they are known and loved by Jesus. To have a role in their faith journey is such a blessing and naturally comes with a lot of fun!
I'm so grateful to be working at The Awakening Church alongside my husband, Paco (the Family Life Pastor). We have two young children, Mila and Jayden, whose smiles and giggles we cherish.
Each day, I strive to remember this encouragement in 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18, "Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus."
Fun Facts About Me:
Favorite Local Eats: Ono Donuts & 808 Deli
Go-To Coffee Order: Surfs up cold brew, extra ice at Kraken Coffee or Hot black coffee
Favorite Hobby: I’m a wanna be runner