
BYG Lent Reflections
By Kaylee Yokoyama with Emma H.
Kaylee Yokyama: Lent is a time for reflection and sacrifice. What is one small change you’re making this Lent to grow closer to God?
Emma H.: One small change I’m making to grow closer to God is by taking time each day to write 3 things I’m grateful for and thanking God for it.
KY: What do you enjoy about our camping ministries fundraisers?
EH: I enjoy our camping ministry fundraisers because I have fun with my BYG members, whether that’s through making meals or hosting bake sales, while also raising money to send us to camp where we can grow together and find community.
KY: What are you most excited about for the Easter Overnighter this year? Share your favorite part of this event in the past!
EH: I’m most excited for our time of devotional activities and cooking during the Easter overnighter. I always enjoy the time spent cooking with one another and laughing over little things and also having a space to center myself and thank God for all the blessings he has provided for me and my loved ones.

Staying Grounded During Lent
By Kaylee Yokoyama, photos by Aiden Lew
During this Lenten season, I’ve found that taking intentional time for reflection has been deeply rewarding. As we focused on growing closer to God and strengthening our relationships, I made a commitment to journal three things I’m grateful for each day. This simple practice not only helped me stay grounded, but it also created space to see God’s presence in the everyday moments of my life. It has been a powerful reminder to recognize and appreciate the blessings around me, no matter how small, and has served as a tool for cultivating gratitude and spiritual growth.
In March, BYG dedicated time to reflecting on the meaning of Lent and setting personal goals for the season. BYG’s Lent lessons were guided by the curriculum from “Bread of Life Lenten Bundle”, in which we watched a video about the three pillars of Lent—prayer, fasting, and almsgiving—and discussed how Lent is a time for reflection, growth, and service. The youth were encouraged to ask themselves meaningful questions such as: How can you grow closer to God during this Lent season? Why is serving others important? What does spiritual growth look like? How can you track your progress? These reflections allowed the youth to set realistic and meaningful goals, with ongoing support and accountability from the group.






Additionally in March, BYG held the Hawaiian Food Fundraiser. It was heartwarming to see the youth come together to prepare and serve a delicious meal, including pulled pork, Hawaiian rolls, mac salad, and coleslaw. The event was a great success, serving 80 people and raising funds for Asian Camp. The support we received was overwhelming, and the money raised will go directly toward providing a meaningful camp experience for the youth to continue growing in their faith journey and exploration. This fundraiser reminded me of the power of community and how service can foster both spiritual growth and deeper connections. Watching the youth serve with such dedication and enthusiasm was truly inspiring. It’s been a joy to see them not only learn about their faith but also live it out in practical, impactful ways.
As we continue our Lenten journey, I am grateful for the opportunity to serve the community with the youth as they deepen their faith and commitment to serving others. The support of the Blaine Congregation has been vital in making these experiences possible, and I’m excited for what lies ahead. Thank you, Blaine Congregation, for your ongoing support of our youth! Please stay tuned for more BYG events, news, and announcements in the weeks to come.
Kaylee Yokoyama serves as the Associate Director for the Blaine Youth Group.
Announcements

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2025 Educational Scholarships • Application period open through May 15, 2025
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 Community College/ Trade School Scholarship
- Robert and Lucy Sato Scholarship
- Blaine Memorial Scholarship
- Ted and Margaret Yasuda Scholarship
Applications are available through emailing Michelle Vaughan 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, 2025 for consideration. We are looking forward to applicants excited about pursuing their education.
For more information, visit and bookmark the Educational Scholarships 2025 page.

Ireicho: Book of Names • See Dates, Sign Up Now!
Request to stamp the Ireicho: Book of Names in Seattle, in Puyallup, and on Bainbridge Island in 2026!
The Irei Project, in conjunction with the Japanese American Citizens League (JACL) Puyallup Valley Chapter and Bainbridge Island Japanese American Exclusion Memorial Association, is pleased to offer appointments to stamp the Ireicho at the Blaine Memorial United Methodist Church in Seattle on March 27, 2026, at the Expo Hall and Remembrance Gallery in Puyallup on March 28, 2026, and at the Bainbridge Island Japanese American Exclusion Memorial on March 29 and March 30, 2026. Stamping is by appointment only.

Currents: An Operetta featuring Gail Nomura and Shigeru Nishida in a Discussion Panel • May 7, 2025, 7:00PM
Join Gail Nomura and Shig Nishida at McMenamin’s Anderson School, Hayne’s Hall in Bothell, WA on May 7, 2025 at 7:00PM at Currents: An Operetta! The event is free, both you’ll need to register here.
Location: Haynes’ Hall, 18607 Bothell Way NE- Bothell
All ages welcome!

Urgent Help Needed for Asylum Seekers at Fairwood UMC/El Dios Viviente UMC
As the needs of our refugee siblings continue to grow, Fairwood UMC and El Dios Viviente UMC remain committed to providing essential services and shelter for refugee families at Fairwood UMC in Renton.
Right now, there are urgent needs for the asylum seeker program shelter, and we are reaching out for your support. The following items are needed:
- Queen-size air mattresses (24-inch)
- Blankets (any size)
- Gift cards
- Toilet paper
- White rice (grain)
- Cooking oil (Crisco or Mazola)
- Trash bags (55-60 gallon)
- Laundry detergent
- Black totes (45-gallon)
If you can donate any of these items, we would deeply appreciate it. If you have any questions, please contact Rev. Cruz Santos.
Migrant and Refugee Donation Ministry @ Riverton Park UMC • Blaine Memorial UMC Collection Hours: Tuesday-Friday, 10:00am-4:00pm
Riverton Park UMC is in dire need of:
- Diapers (sizes 3 through 7)
- Diaper wipes
- Kitchen pots and pans
- Paper plates
- Toothpaste
- Long grain rice
- Cooking oil
Blaine Memorial UMC Collection Hours: Collection items can be dropped off to the Blaine Memorial Social Hall from Tuesday-Friday between 10:00AM-4:00PM. Please call the Church Office at (206) 723-1536 prior to dropping off your items.
View the April 2025 Calendar
