Posts by Admin1904

Third Sunday of Easter Comments Off on Third Sunday of Easter

Third Sunday of Easter

Posted by on Apr 14, 2024 in Blaine Youth Group, Church News & Events, Congregational Care, Innovation Hub, Prayer, Sermons, Service Opportunities, Small Groups, Spiritual Formation, Sunday Worship, Weekly Calendar

All are Welcome!

Order of Worship

Prelude
How Majestic Is Your Name
Michael W. Smith

Kathy Onishi
Welcome of Grace and Greeting
Rev. Mia MiKyung Park
*Call to Worship
Based on Psalm 116
Rev. Mia MiKyung Park
*Opening Hymn
Morning Has Broken
UMH #145

Kathy & Eugene Onishi
Opening Prayer
Rev. Mia MiKyung Park
Scripture Reading
Luke 24:36b-48 (JLB, CEB)
Tsutomu Nagoya and Shig Nishida
Children’s Message
Rev. Mia MiKyung Park
Membership of Lynne Onishi
Rev. Karen Yokota Love
Special Music
I Want to Walk as a Child of the Light
Blaine Memorial Choir
Prayers of the People
Rev. Karen Yokota Love
Sermon
Show Me Your Wounds
Rev. Karen Yokota Love
Hymn of Reflection
Loving Spirit
TFWS #2123
(Verses 1-2,4-5)

Kathy & Eugene Onishi
Introduction to the Offering
Shig Nishida
*Doxology
Praise God, from Whom All Blessings Flow
(UMH #94)

Kathy Onishi
Prayer of Dedication
Shig Nishida
Announcements
Rev. Karen and Friends
*Closing Hymn
Open My Eyes of My Heart
Blaine Praise Band
*Benediction
Rev. Karen Yokota Love
Postlude
Without Seeing You
David Haas
Kathy Onishi
Zoom Breakout Room
Rev. Dr. Jeney Park-Hearn

Sermon Questions

  • Why were the disciples so afraid? How did Jesus approach them?
  • What does it mean that Jesus “opened their minds”?
  • Think of a current hardship you are experiencing. How would it help you endure this situation if you could see how God might use it for good in your life?
  • What repetitive actions have helped you build your faith over time?

Daily Lectionary Readings

Sunday, April 14, 2024: Third Sunday of Easter
Acts 3:12-19; Psalm 4; 1 John 3:1-7; Luke 24:36b-48
Monday, April 15, 2024:
Psalm 150; Jeremiah 30:1-11a; 1 John 3:10-16
Tuesday, April 16, 2024:
Psalm 150; Hosea 5:15-6:6; 2 John 1:1-6
Wednesday, April 17, 2024:
Psalm 150; Proverbs 9:1-6; Mark 16:9-18
Thursday, April 18, 2024:
Psalm 23; Genesis 30:25-43; Acts 3:17-26
Friday, April 19, 2024:
Psalm 23; Genesis 46:28-47:6; Acts 4:1-4
Saturday, April 20, 2024:
Psalm 23; Genesis 48:8-19; Mark 6:30-34

Announcements

Senninbari, Thousand Stitch Sash, made in Poston prison camp and worn by Kuichi Takei during WWII.

Senninbari Sewing • April 14 after Service

Thank you to the Blaine members who volunteered at the Northwest Detention Center during the recent Tsuru for Solidarity encampment.

Tsuru for Solidarity is a non-violent, direct action project of Japanese American social justice advocates working to end detention sites (locally, NWDC in Tacoma). We stand on the moral authority of Japanese Americans who were incarcerated during World War II to say, “Stop Repeating History.”

In preparation for the next direct action to close NWDC, members of Tsuru will be making senninbari, or 1000 stitch sashes, for Tsuru members and others to wear. Senninbari were traditionally sewn by Japanese women for soldiers going off to war to watch over and protect them. During World War II, Issei mothers sewed senninbari for their Nisei sons who volunteered or were drafted into the military. We hope that the senninbari that we sew will also offer protection and support for those engaging in Tsuru’s direct actions.

We will start sewing our senninbari in the Blaine social hall after church on Sunday, April 14th. We invite members of the Blaine congregation to join us. All materials and hands-on instruction will be provided. We plan to sew for a couple of hours, so that everyone can get a start on their sashes. Then people will be able to take home their kits and work on them on their own.

If you have questions or are interested in participating but not able to come on the 14th, please contact Barbara Yasui.

Baptism Class in the Webb Room • April 14, 2024 at 11:45am

Join us for a Baptism Class on Sunday (4/14) at 11:45AM in the Webb Room. Rev. Karen and Rev. Mia will facilitate this session, aimed at those interested in understanding the significance of baptism and exploring membership at Blaine Memorial UMC. This is an excellent opportunity for individuals seeking to deepen their understanding of baptism and its role in our faith community. Please contact Rev. Karen or Rev. Mia for more information.

Wednesday Meditation & Prayer • Every Wednesday

The Wednesday Prayer group continues to meet each week. Our time together consists of a check-in question centering around United Methodist Founder John Wesley’s famous question, “How is it with your soul?” Our time together continues with a few readings from The Upper Room Magazine. Finally, we end our time together with a pastoral prayer. Join us!

Bob Ross Night • April 20, 7pm

Join the Blaine Memorial UMC Innovation Hub for an evening of fellowship, painting, and relaxing while we watch Bob Ross on Saturday, April 20 from 7:00-9:00 PM in the Social Hall! We will provide some light snacks and beverages as well as painting supplies and materials! Please make sure to note any allergies or dietary restrictions on this form. All are welcome. Please email Lynne Onishi at lynneonishi@gmail.com with any questions. We can’t wait to see you there!

Sign up, here.

Educational Scholarships 2024, Apply Now! • Due May 15, 2024

The Blaine Memorial United Methodist Church Educational Scholarships are designed to support the mission of the church through supporting a multitude of educational opportunities. We are proud to have helped students in their pursuit of continuing education since 1968. We encourage all applicants; from those just entering their next phase of education to those returning to complete or pursue continued education.

We are blessed to offer the following scholarships:

  • Vera Ing Scholarship
  • Blaine Memorial United Methodist Church Scholarship
  • Yasuda Scholarship
  • William S. Yorozu Scholarship
  • Robert and Lucy Sato Scholarship

Applications are available through emailing Blaine Scholarships or through the church office. All scholarships will consider, but are not limited to, elements such as grades (if applicable), personal essay, church participation and finances. Applications and two (2) letters of recommendation must be received no later than May 15, 2024 for consideration.

We are looking forward to applicants excited about pursuing their education.

View the March-April 2024 Calendar

Read the latest issue of the Beacon!

Our March-April issue of the Beacon newsletter is ready for view – with more of the great news and insights Blaine Memorial UMC has to offer!

You can access past issues in our archive.

Stay connected with Blaine Memorial on Facebook!

Learn More
Second Sunday of Easter Comments Off on Second Sunday of Easter

Second Sunday of Easter

Posted by on Apr 7, 2024 in Blaine Youth Group, Church News & Events, Congregational Care, Giving, Innovation Hub, Prayer, Sermons, Service Opportunities, Small Groups, Spiritual Formation, Sunday Worship, Weekly Calendar

All are Welcome!

Order of Worship

Prelude
Gather Us In
Marty Haugen
Kathy Onishi
Welcome of Grace and Greeting
Rev. Karen Yokota Love
*Call to Worship
Written by P. Mitchell, Discipleship Ministries
Rev. Karen Yokota Love
*Opening Hymn
Blest Be the Tie That Binds
UMH #557 (Verses 1,3-4)

Kathy & Eugene Onishi
Opening Prayer
Rev. Mia MiKyung Park
Scripture Reading
Acts 4:32-35 (JLB, CEB)
Tsutomu Nagoya
Michelle Vaughan
Children’s Message
Rev. Mia MiKyung Park
Prayers of the People
Rev. Karen Yokota Love
Scripture Reading
John 20:19-31 (JLB, CEB)
Tsutomu Nagoya
Michelle Vaughan
Sermon
Without a Doubt
Rev. Karen Yokota Love
Hymn of Reflection
Grace Alone
(TFWS #2162)

Kathy Onishi
Holy Communion
Rev. Karen Yokota Love
Rev. Mia MiKyung Park
Introduction to the Offering
Rev. Mia MiKyung Park
*Doxology
Praise God, from Whom All Blessings Flow
(UMH #94)

Kathy Onishi
Prayer of Dedication
Rev. Mia MiKyung Park
Announcements
Rev. Karen Yokota Love and Friends
*Closing Hymn
Easter People, Raise Your Voices
(UMH #304)

Kathy Onishi
*Benediction
Rev. Karen Yokota Love
Postlude
In Christ Alone
By Keith Getty and Stuart Townend

Kathy Onishi
Zoom Breakout Room
Rev. Dr. Jeney Park-Hearn

Lectionary Questions

  • Do you find it hard to believe certain things without seeing proof or evidence? Share some examples of this from your life.
  • Read John 20:24-29. How would you describe Thomas’ attitude, both before and after Jesus appeared to him?
  • What can we learn from Jesus’ encounter with Thomas that can help us respond to people who have doubts?
  • Read John 20:29-31. How can someone who has not seen the evidence that Thomas and the other disciples saw come to faith in Jesus as the risen Lord and Savior?

Daily Lectionary Readings

Sunday, April 7, 2024: Second Sunday of Easter
Acts 4:32-35; Psalm 133; 1 John 1:1-2:2; John 20:19-31
Monday, April 8, 2024:
Psalm 135; Daniel 3:1-30; 1 John 2:3-11
Tuesday, April 9, 2024:
Psalm 135; Daniel 6:1-28; 1 John 2:12-17
Wednesday, April 10, 2024:
Psalm 135; Isaiah 26:1-15; Mark 12:18-27
Thursday, April 11, 2024:
Psalm 4; Daniel 9:1-19; 1 John 2:18-25
Friday, April 12, 2024:
Psalm 4; Daniel 10:2-19; 1 John 2:26-28
Saturday, April 13, 2024:
Psalm 4; Acts 3:1-10; Luke 22:24-30

Announcements

Tonight, Blaine Memorial UMC will hold a Special Charge Conference at 7pm.

Special Charge Conference for Yoshi Kuramoto • Tonight at 7pm

A Special Charge Conference Meeting with Ad Board and SPRC will be on Sunday, April 7, 2024 at 7:00pm on Zoom. The agenda and purpose of this Special Charge Conference is to vote on the candidacy for ordained ministry of Yoshiya Joshua Kuramoto. The Zoom link will be emailed directly to Ad Board and SPRC members. 

Wednesday Meditation & Prayer • Every Wednesday

The Wednesday Prayer group continues to meet each week. Our time together consists of a check-in question centering around United Methodist Founder John Wesley’s famous question, “How is it with your soul?” Our time together continues with a few readings from The Upper Room Magazine. Finally, we end our time together with a pastoral prayer. Join us!

Senninbari, Thousand Stitch Sash, made in Poston prison camp and worn by Kuichi Takei during WWII.

Senninbari Sewing • April 14 after Service

Thank you to the Blaine members who volunteered at the Northwest Detention Center during the recent Tsuru for Solidarity encampment.

Tsuru for Solidarity is a non-violent, direct action project of Japanese American social justice advocates working to end detention sites (locally, NWDC in Tacoma). We stand on the moral authority of Japanese Americans who were incarcerated during World War II to say, “Stop Repeating History.”

In preparation for the next direct action to close NWDC, members of Tsuru will be making senninbari, or 1000 stitch sashes, for Tsuru members and others to wear. Senninbari were traditionally sewn by Japanese women for soldiers going off to war to watch over and protect them. During World War II, Issei mothers sewed senninbari for their Nisei sons who volunteered or were drafted into the military. We hope that the senninbari that we sew will also offer protection and support for those engaging in Tsuru’s direct actions.

We will start sewing our senninbari in the Blaine social hall after church on Sunday, April 14th. We invite members of the Blaine congregation to join us. All materials and hands-on instruction will be provided. We plan to sew for a couple of hours, so that everyone can get a start on their sashes. Then people will be able to take home their kits and work on them on their own.

If you have questions or are interested in participating but not able to come on the 14th, please contact Barbara Yasui.

Baptism Class in the Webb Room • Sunday, April 14, 2024 at 11:45am

Join us for a Baptism Class on Sunday (4/14) at 11:45AM in the Webb Room. Rev. Karen and Rev. Mia will facilitate this session, aimed at those interested in understanding the significance of baptism and exploring membership at Blaine Memorial UMC. This is an excellent opportunity for individuals seeking to deepen their understanding of baptism and its role in our faith community. Please contact Rev. Karen or Rev. Mia for more information.

Bob Ross Night • April 20, 7pm

Join the Blaine Memorial UMC Innovation Hub for an evening of fellowship, painting, and relaxing while we watch Bob Ross on Saturday, April 20 from 7:00-9:00 PM in the Social Hall! We will provide some light snacks and beverages as well as painting supplies and materials! Please make sure to note any allergies or dietary restrictions on this form. All are welcome. Please email Lynne Onishi at lynneonishi@gmail.com with any questions. We can’t wait to see you there!

Sign up, here.

Educational Scholarships 2024, Apply Now! • Due May 15, 2024

The Blaine Memorial United Methodist Church Educational Scholarships are designed to support the mission of the church through supporting a multitude of educational opportunities. We are proud to have helped students in their pursuit of continuing education since 1968. We encourage all applicants; from those just entering their next phase of education to those returning to complete or pursue continued education.

We are blessed to offer the following scholarships:

  • Vera Ing Scholarship
  • Blaine Memorial United Methodist Church Scholarship
  • Yasuda Scholarship
  • William S. Yorozu Scholarship
  • Robert S. Sato Scholarship

Applications are available through emailing Blaine Scholarships or through the church office. All scholarships will consider, but are not limited to, elements such as grades (if applicable), personal essay, church participation and finances. Applications and two (2) letters of recommendation must be received no later than May 15, 2024 for consideration.

We are looking forward to applicants excited about pursuing their education.

View the March-April 2024 Calendar

Read the latest issue of the Beacon!

Our March-April issue of the Beacon newsletter is ready for view – with more of the great news and insights Blaine Memorial UMC has to offer!

You can access past issues in our archive.

Stay connected with Blaine Memorial on Facebook!

Learn More
Easter Sunday Comments Off on Easter Sunday

Easter Sunday

Posted by on Mar 31, 2024 in Blaine Youth Group, Church News & Events, Congregational Care, Giving, Prayer, Sermons, Service Opportunities, Small Groups, Spiritual Formation, Sunday Worship, Weekly Calendar

All are Welcome

Order of Worship

Prelude
Lift High the Cross
By Sydney Hugo Nicholson

Kathy Onishi
Carrying the Flowered Cross
Howard Nakase and Jason Lew
Welcome of Grace and Greeting
Rev. Dr. Mark C. Hearn
*Call to Worship
By Mindi
Rev. Dr. Mark C. Hearn
*Opening Hymn
Christ the Lord Is Risen Today
UMH #302 (Verses 1,2,4,6)

Eugene & Kathy Onishi
Opening Prayer
Rev. Dr. Jeney Park-Hearn
First Scripture Reading
John 20:1-18 (JLB, NRSVUE)
Tsutomu Nagoya, Dale Watanabe, Revs. Mark, Jeney, and Karen
Children’s Message
Rev. Mia MiKyung Park
Prayers of the People
Rev. Karen Yokota Love
Easter Anthem
Mary at the Tomb
By B. Ellingboe

Blaine Memorial Choir
Message
Encountering the Living Christ
Rev. Karen Yokota Love
Congregational Hymn
In the Garden (I Come to the Garden Alone)
UMH #314
Eugene & Kathy Onishi
Introduction to the Offering
Rev. Mia MiKyung Park
Doxology
Praise God, from Whom All Blessings Flow
UMH #94

Eugene & Kathy Onishi
Prayer of Dedication
Rev. Mia MiKyung Park
Announcements
Rev. Karen and Friends
Closing Hymn
Every Praise Blaine Praise Band
Benediction
Rev. Karen Yokota Love
Postlude
Every Praise
Blaine Praise Band
Passing of the Peace
Rev. Karen Yokota Love
Zoom Breakout Room
Rev. Dr. Jeney Park-Hearn

Sermon Questions

  • Our themes this morning come from Jesus’ questions to Mary, and to us, when he asks, “Why are you crying?” and “Who are you looking for?” These become important questions for us as we contemplate our search for life in places other than the resurrected Jesus Christ. What things do we as humans search for that lead us to a place of emptiness and longing? What things do we search to give us life that only Jesus can give? 
  • How have you seen God at work in your life this week?
  • What pain have you experienced by searching after things that lead to death?
  • What must Mary have felt when she heard Jesus call out her name? Can you recall a time when you feel Jesus has sought you out?
  • In what ways does resurrection give you hope and change the way you live?

Daily Lectionary Readings

Sunday, March 31, 2024:
Easter Vigil Old Testament Readings and Psalms

Genesis 1:1-2:4a and Psalm 136:1-9, 23-26
Genesis 7:1-5, 11-18; 8:6-18; 9:8-13 and Psalm 46
Genesis 22:1-18 and Psalm 16
Exodus 14:10-31; 15:20-21 and Exodus 15:1b-13, 17-18
Isaiah 55:1-11 and Isaiah 12:2-6
Baruch 3:9-15, 3:32-4:4 or Proverbs 8:1-8, 19-21; 9:4b-6 and Psalm 19
Ezekiel 36:24-28 and Psalm 42, 43
Ezekiel 37:1-14 and Psalm 143
Zephaniah 3:14-20 and Psalm 98

New Testament Reading and Psalm
Romans 6:3-11 and Psalm 114

Gospel
Mark 16:1-8
Sunday, March 31, 2024:
Resurrection of the Lord

Acts 10:34-43 or Isaiah 25:6-9 Psalm 118:1-2, 14-24
1 Corinthians 15:1-11 or Acts 10:34-43
John 20:1-18 or Mark 16:1-8
Sunday, March 31, 2024:
Easter Evening

Isaiah 25:6-9
Psalm 114 1
Corinthians 5:6b-8
Luke 24:13-49
Monday, April 1, 2024:
Psalm 118:1-2, 14-24
Genesis 1:1-19 1
Corinthians 15:35-49
Tuesday, April 2, 2024:
Psalm 118:1-2, 14-24
Genesis 1:20-2:4a
1 Corinthians 15:50-58
Wednesday, April 3, 2024:
Psalm 118:1-2, 14-24
Song of Solomon 3:1-11
Mark 16:1-8
Thursday, April 4, 2024:
Psalm 133
Daniel 1:1-21
Acts 2:42-47
Friday, April 5, 2024:
Psalm 133
Daniel 2:1-23
Acts 4:23-31
Saturday, April 6, 2024:
Psalm 133
Daniel 2:24-49
John 12:44-50


Announcements

Sunday, March 31: Easter Sunday Schedule

Celebrate the Risen Christ!

Easter Breakfast: Join us for Easter Breakfast in the LAC at 8:30AM as the Blaine Youth Group (BYG) will prepare, cook, and serve the breakfast. There will be two opportunities to eat: 8:30AM and after worship!

Flowering of the Cross: One of the most meaningful traditions that we celebrate on Easter Sunday is the Flowering of the Cross. It symbolizes new life in Christ. We invite all who are attending Easter Sunday worship (in person) to bring flowers from your garden (trimmed to a short stem). These flowers will be placed on the cross as you enter the Sanctuary for Easter worship.

Easter Egg Hunt: The Church School invites children to participate in an Easter Egg Hunt in the Courtyard (weather permitting). Please remind children to bring their own baskets, and feel free to invite your grandchildren, friends, and neighbors to join us for the hunt! 

Wednesday Meditation & Prayer • Every Wednesday

The Wednesday Prayer group continues to meet each week. Our time together consists of a check-in question centering around United Methodist Founder John Wesley’s famous question, “How is it with your soul?” Our time together continues with a few readings from The Upper Room Magazine. Finally, we end our time together with a pastoral prayer. Join us!

Save the date for our Special Charge Conference, April 7, 2024.

NEW! Special Charge Conference for Yoshi Kuramoto • Sunday, April 7, 2024 at 7pm

A Special Charge Conference Meeting with Ad Board and SPRC will be on Sunday, April 7, 2024 at 7:00pm on Zoom. The agenda and purpose of this Special Charge Conference is to vote on the candidacy for ordained ministry of Yoshiya Joshua Kuramoto. The Zoom link will be emailed directly to Ad Board and SPRC members. 

NEW! Baptism Class in the Webb Room • Sunday, April 14, 2024 at 11:45am

Join us for a Baptism Class on Sunday (4/14) at 11:45AM in the Webb Room. Rev. Karen and Rev. Mia will facilitate this session, aimed at those interested in understanding the significance of baptism and exploring membership at Blaine Memorial UMC. This is an excellent opportunity for individuals seeking to deepen their understanding of baptism and its role in our faith community. Please contact Rev. Karen (rev.karenyokotalove@gmail.com) or Rev. Mia (miablaine2020@gmail.com) for more information.

Educational Scholarships 2024, Apply Now! • Due May 15, 2024

The Blaine Memorial United Methodist Church Educational Scholarships are designed to support the mission of the church through supporting a multitude of educational opportunities. We are proud to have helped students in their pursuit of continuing education since 1968. We encourage all applicants; from those just entering their next phase of education to those returning to complete or pursue continued education.

We are blessed to offer the following scholarships:

  • Vera Ing Scholarship
  • Blaine Memorial United Methodist Church Scholarship
  • Yasuda Scholarship
  • William S. Yorozu Scholarship
  • Robert S. Sato Scholarship

Applications are available through emailing Blaine Scholarships or through the church office. All scholarships will consider, but are not limited to, elements such as grades (if applicable), personal essay, church participation and finances. Applications and two (2) letters of recommendation must be received no later than May 15, 2024 for consideration.

We are looking forward to applicants excited about pursuing their education.

View the March-April 2024 Calendar

Read the latest issue of the Beacon!

Our March-April issue of the Beacon newsletter is ready for view – with more of the great news and insights Blaine Memorial UMC has to offer!

You can access past issues in our archive.

Stay connected with Blaine Memorial on Facebook!

Learn More
Spiritual Formation Center Comments Off on Spiritual Formation Center

Spiritual Formation Center

Posted by on Mar 26, 2024 in Church News & Events, Congregational Care, Lenten Season, Spiritual Formation, Weekly Calendar

Easter is Resurrection Day!

By Anne Arakaki-Lock

t was prophesied in the Old Testament:

“I know my Redeemer lives, and that in the end, he will stand on the earth. And after my skin has been destroyed, yet in my flesh, I will see God. “ Job 19:25-26.

God’s timing is always so perfect. As I am writing this article, at the same time I’m now getting text messages from my cousin about my aunty’s memorial service and inurnment in Hawaii. As I contact the pastor, think about the program, and select Scriptures, as I think about the eulogy, I am so at peace and joyful. 

You see, my Aunty became a Christian later in life, enjoying her newfound faith before her dementia set in. We went to church together when I was there caring for my mom. Aunty enjoyed going to the church at Kahala Mall. She often told me that she would pray. There was always something or someone to pray about. So as her memorial was being discussed last week, my uncle didn’t hesitate. He wanted a Christian service for her. I praise God for this. 

I know where Aunty is. In fact, as family will be flying in from Seattle and the Bay Area to join our Hawaii ohana, we will look forward to an Easter-like day in Hawaii at Diamond Head Cemetery. Yes, it will definitely be a celebration.

I love knowing that my mom and dad, Jesus, are with her now. It is comforting. There is no guessing where Aunty is and how she’s doing. 

Easter, Resurrection Sunday marks Jesus’ victory over death, showing us his power to conquer evil and to give us a pain free, loving, beautiful everlasting life with him. Aunty’s last few years with Alzheimer’s Disease were rough. But now, she will live a wonderful life in eternity with God. “Now the dwelling of God is with men, and he will live with them. They will be his people, and God himself will be with them and be their God. He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain” Revelation 21:3-4.

“Jesus said to her, ‘I am the resurrection and the life. The one who believes in me will live, even though they die; and whoever lives believing in me will never die. Do you believe this?’” John 11:25-26

Anne Arakaki-Lock is a member of Blaine Memorial UMC.


Announcements

Read the latest issue of the Beacon!

Our March-April issue of the Beacon newsletter is ready for view – with more of the great news and insights Blaine Memorial UMC has to offer!

You can access past issues in our archive.

.

Wednesday Meditation & Prayer • Every Wednesday

The Wednesday Prayer group continues to meet each week. Our time together consists of a check-in question centering around United Methodist Founder John Wesley’s famous question, “How is it with your soul?” Our time together continues with a few readings from The Upper Room Magazine. Finally, we end our time together with a pastoral prayer. Join us!

Educational Scholarships 2024, Apply Now! • Due May 15, 2024

The Blaine Memorial United Methodist Church Educational Scholarships are designed to support the mission of the church through supporting a multitude of educational opportunities. We are proud to have helped students in their pursuit of continuing education since 1968. We encourage all applicants; from those just entering their next phase of education to those returning to complete or pursue continued education.

We are blessed to offer the following scholarships:

  • Vera Ing Scholarship
  • Blaine Memorial United Methodist Church Scholarship
  • Yasuda Scholarship
  • William S. Yorozu Scholarship
  • Robert S. Sato Scholarship

Applications are available through emailing Blaine Scholarships or through the church office. All scholarships will consider, but are not limited to, elements such as grades (if applicable), personal essay, church participation and finances. Applications and two (2) letters of recommendation must be received no later than May 15, 2024 for consideration.

We are looking forward to applicants excited about pursuing their education.

View the March-April 2024 Calendar

Stay connected with Blaine Memorial on Facebook!

Learn More
Associate Pastor’s Spiritual Reflection Comments Off on Associate Pastor’s Spiritual Reflection

Associate Pastor’s Spiritual Reflection

Posted by on Mar 26, 2024 in Church News & Events, Lenten Season, Pastors' Columns, Prayer, Sermons, Spiritual Formation, Weekly Calendar

John Lim and Harry Tong prepare delicious bag lunches for residents of Tent City 3. The children of Blaine Memorial UMC made 80 lunches to serve community.

Lent & Easter: What does God want you to replace?

By the Rev. Mia MiKyung Park

How is your Lent going? I am curious and excited to know how your Lent has been going this year. Lent brings me such a deep sense of self-examination and reflection, which draws me into repentance, renewal, and hope. I like to choose a theme for Lent and Easter each year, and this year, I’ve decided the theme is “Replacing.” As I reflect on the theme, I recognize many aspects of myself that need to be replaced with something else.

I desire to replace disappointment with hope, knowing that God’s plans are greater than my own. Isaiah 55:8-9 tells us, “My plans aren’t your plans, nor are your ways my ways,” says the Lord. “Just as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways, and my plans than your plans.” In moments of disappointment, I seek to replace it with hope, reminding myself that there is a reason to be hopeful in Jesus, who conquers death to prove God’s unfailing and steadfast love.

I desire to replace anxiety with trust, believing that God is in control, and I am a witness to God’s mysterious works. The Apostle Paul advises us in Philippians 4:6-7, “Don’t be anxious about anything; rather, bring up all of your requests to God in your prayers and petitions, along with giving thanks. Then the peace of God that exceeds all understanding will keep your hearts and minds safe in Christ Jesus.” Though challenges may overwhelm me, I remind myself to surrender my anxiety to God, who listens and answers in God’s time.

I desire to replace resentment with peace, finding solace in the words of our Lord Jesus who gives us true peace, saying, “Peace I leave with you. My peace I give you. I give to you not as the world gives. Don’t be troubled or afraid” (John 14:27). In times of turmoil, I find peace in knowing that God’s love surrounds me, calming my troubled heart.

Because of God’s grace, I am hopeful that I can lay down my disappointment, anxiety, resentment, etc., before God and ask them to be replaced with hope, trust, peace, etc.

I want to ask you: what do you think that God wants you to replace?

Our Church School children made 80 lunch bags for the residents at Tent City 3 on Sunday, February 4. Thanks to all the children, teachers, and dads who joyfully made the lunch bags to donate to Tent City 3. Also, I express my gratitude to those who provided individually packed snacks. I am thankful for this wonderful teamwork at Blaine! As a community, we continue to be the hands and feet of our Lord Jesus, embodying Christ’s love and compassion for those in need. The Church School’s March memorization verse is Revelation 3:20, where we are reminded, “Listen! I am standing at the door, knocking; if you hear my voice and open the door, I will come in and eat with you, and you with me.” Let us open our hearts to God’s presence and allow God to guide us on our Lenten journey of replacing old habits and attitudes with God’s love and grace.

God resurrected Jesus from the death which replaces human finitude to God’s eternity. I invite all of us to continue replacing what we don’t need with what we must have. May this Lenten season be a time of reflection, renewal, and transformation for us all, and may our Easter be a time of hope and rejoicing!

The Rev. Mia MiKyung Park is the Associate Pastor of Blaine Memorial UMC.


Announcements

Read the latest issue of the Beacon!

Our March-April issue of the Beacon newsletter is ready for view – with more of the great news and insights Blaine Memorial UMC has to offer!

You can access past issues in our archive.

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Wednesday Meditation & Prayer • Every Wednesday

The Wednesday Prayer group continues to meet each week. Our time together consists of a check-in question centering around United Methodist Founder John Wesley’s famous question, “How is it with your soul?” Our time together continues with a few readings from The Upper Room Magazine. Finally, we end our time together with a pastoral prayer. Join us!

Educational Scholarships 2024, Apply Now! • Due May 15, 2024

The Blaine Memorial United Methodist Church Educational Scholarships are designed to support the mission of the church through supporting a multitude of educational opportunities. We are proud to have helped students in their pursuit of continuing education since 1968. We encourage all applicants; from those just entering their next phase of education to those returning to complete or pursue continued education.

We are blessed to offer the following scholarships:

  • Vera Ing Scholarship
  • Blaine Memorial United Methodist Church Scholarship
  • Yasuda Scholarship
  • William S. Yorozu Scholarship
  • Robert S. Sato Scholarship

Applications are available through emailing Blaine Scholarships or through the church office. All scholarships will consider, but are not limited to, elements such as grades (if applicable), personal essay, church participation and finances. Applications and two (2) letters of recommendation must be received no later than May 15, 2024 for consideration.

We are looking forward to applicants excited about pursuing their education.

View the March-April 2024 Calendar

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