Rev. Karen Yokota Love and Rev. Cruz Edwin Santos gather with George Yates, Dorine Nakamura, Rae and Shig Nishida at the 120th Anniversary Potluck luncheon.
Figuring out our Faith
By The Rev. Karen Yokota Love, photos by Kai Yamamoto
Yesterday, I took a walk around the church neighborhood to get some exercise. Many of the trees lost their leaves because of the dreary winter season. Suddenly, my eyes lit up by the sight of tiny buds poking out at the tips of the limbs. I could see signs of hope and signs of spring. I’m grateful that God continues to carry me through the dark and weary winter months and that hope is just around the bend.
“Look, the winter is past, and the rains are over and gone. The flowers are springing up, the season of singing birds has come, and the cooing of turtledoves fills the air. The fig trees are forming young fruit, and the fragrant grapevines are blossoming. Rise up, my darling! Come away with me, my fair one!” – Song of Solomon 2:11-13
Let’s thank the Lord for this new day that is unfolding around us! Blaine Memorial continues to be a vibrant place for ministry with new ideas, new ministry activities, while continuing to revive much loved events. Recently, we celebrated the vibrancy of Blaine’s ministries by celebrating our 120th Anniversary on January 28, 2024. Please take a look at our celebration on page 6.
Our Sukiyaki Benefit Fundraiser is right around the bend. It’ll take place at Blaine Memorial UMC on Saturday, March 2 from 1pm-6pm. This year’s benefit recipient will be the Migrant Support Services at Riverton Park UMC in Tukwila, WA. Currently, there are 500+ migrants camping outside on the lawn of Riverton Park UMC and they need basic resources. We are also asking every person that comes to Sukiyaki to bring a gently used blanket. The migrants are sleeping outside in tents are asking for a warm blanket to help them during the rainy and cold season.
This Lent, we are focusing on the life and faith of one of Jesus’ most famous disciples. In Peter, we see a person who is both steadfast and unsteady, a dear friend and a betrayer, a follower and a wanderer. In Peter, we often see ourselves. By following Peter’s journey, we watch the story of Jesus unfold through the eyes of a very normal human trying to figure it all out — just like us.
Peter had a wandering heart. Jesus was always there to catch Peter, to walk beside him, to wash his feet, and to offer love. In Peter’s story, we find Jesus. Peter’s wandering faith ebbed and flowed, pushed away and pulled close. He was always tethered to the love of God. In our Lent series, we want to affirm that faith is a constant journey of steadfast pursuit, one that ebbs and flows. We want to affirm that wandering is exploration, not necessarily distance from God.
The Rev. Karen Yokota Love preaches her sermon, “Go Forth in Faith”, during Blaine Memorial’s Anniversary Sunday.
As we prepare for this journey in the wilderness with our own wandering hearts, I want to invite you to our events during Holy Week – put these dates and times on your calendar! During the last week in March, we’ll begin the week with:
Palm Sunday (3/24), where we will celebrate Jesus’ entry into Jerusalem with palm fronds!
On Good Friday (3/29) at 7:00PM, Japanese Baptist Church is inviting Blaine members to worship together at JBC. Together, we will remember Jesus’ sacrifices and unwavering love for us. It will be wonderful to see our JBC friends and worship with them. People are invited to come at 5:00PM for a simple soup supper meal. Please come! We would love to have a hearty group of church members from both worshiping communities for a reunion!
Finally, on Easter Sunday (3/31), you are invited to come to Easter Breakfast hosted by the BYG at 8am in the LAC. Bring flowers from your garden for the Flowering of the Cross which will take place before worship. Afterwards, children and youth are invited to join in on an Easter Egg Hunt which will be in the Courtyard.
This Lent, we’re joining Peter in figuring out faith.We will look for ourselves in the stepping stones of Peter’s story. We will reflect on the stages of our own faith journeys as well as who and what has shaped us along the way. As we wander, let us tune our hearts to sing God’s grace. May we rest in streams of mercy, never ceasing.
The Rev. Karen Yokota Love serves as the Senior Pastor of Blaine Memorial United Methodist Church.
Prelude Without His Cross Music by Joseph M. Martin Kathy Onishi
Welcome of Grace and Greeting Rev. Mia MiKyung Park
*Call to Worship (Written by Rev. Mia based on Psalm 22:23-31) Arlene Naganawa
*Opening Hymn Open My Eyes, that I May See UMH #454 Kathy and Eugene Onishi
Opening Prayer Rev. Mia MiKyung Park
First Scripture Reading Romans 4:13-16, 19-25 (JLB, CEB) Yuki Sofronas and Arlene Naganawa
Children’s Message Sai Hanaoka
Special Music Fall, Slow Tears Blaine Memorial Choir
Pastoral Prayer Rev. Mia MiKyung Park Dale Kaneko
Second Scripture Reading Mark 8:31-38 (JLB, CEB) Yuki Sofronas and Arlene Naganawa
Sermon God’s Thoughts vs. Human Thoughts Rev. Mia MiKyung Park
Hymn of Reflection Living for Jesus TFWS #2149 Kathy and Eugene Onishi
Introduction to the Offering Arlene Naganawa
*Doxology Praise God, from Whom All Blessings Flow UMH #94 Kathy and Eugene Onishi
Prayer of Dedication Arlene Naganawa
Announcements Rev. Mia and Friends
*Closing Hymn We Are Called TFWS #2172 Kathy and Eugene Onishi
*Benediction Rev. Mia MiKyung Park
Postlude Standing on the Promises Music by R. Kelso Carter Kathy Onishi
Zoom Breakout Room Dale Kaneko
Sermon Questions
Jesus wants us to have a different perspective, God’s thoughts not human thoughts (vs.33). What does it mean and look like to shift or replace your thoughts to have God’s thoughts?
Look at Mark 8:34-35. What does it mean to ‘must say no to themselves, take up their cross, and follow me’? What needs to change in our lives in order to obey Jesus’ words: deny yourself, take up your cross and follow me?
In what practical ways can we respond to Jesus’ call to take up our cross and follow him in our daily lives, relationships, and communities?
Lectionary Readings
Sunday, February 25, 2024: Genesis 17:1-7, 15-16; Psalm 22:23-31; Romans 4:13-25; Mark 8:31-38 or Mark 9:2-9
Wednesday, February 28, 2024: Psalm 105:1-11, 37-45; Jeremiah 30:12-22; John 12:36-43
Thursday, February 29, 2024: Psalm 19; Exodus 19:1-9a; 1 Peter 2:4-10
Friday, March 1, 2024: Psalm 19; Exodus 19:9b-15; Acts 7:30-40
Saturday, March 2, 2024: Psalm 19; Exodus 19:16-25; Mark 9:2-8
Announcements
Wednesday Meditation & Prayer • February 28 at 9am
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!
The Third Day: Living the Resurrection Lenten Book Study
This year’s All Church Lenten study is The Third Day: Living the Resurrection by Tom Berlin and Mark A. Miller. This study will begin on Tuesday, February 13, at 7 pm via Zoom and will be facilitated by Rev. Mia MiKyung Park and Rev. Karen Yokota Love. The link will be emailed prior to the meeting date. We will also meet on Tuesdays: 2/20, 2/27, 3/5, 3/12, and 3/19 to discuss each chapter.
The Office is selling The Third Day: Living the Resurrection books for $14.00 and the Leader Guide is $12.00. You are welcome to buy the book in the Office and read with your small groups.
In The Third Day: Living the Resurrection, Tom Berlin uses his storytelling gifts and scriptural understanding to connect readers to the experiences of individuals around Jesus in his final days. The focus is on new life and redemption rather than loss.
Come and journey with characters like Peter, Mary Magdalene, and Thomas as they experience the despair of losing Jesus and the surprise and joy that awaits them in the resurrection. This study will explore events around these characters, along with Paul and the disciples at Emmaus, and how the resurrection transforms their lives.
NJAUMC Lenten Book Study begins on Monday, Feb. 19, 2024!
You’re invited to join Rev. John Miyahara (US Navy Chaplain), Rev. Brian Lee (Simpson UMC), and members of the Japanese American United Methodist Caucus congregations in a 6-week Advent book study. We will be reading Savior: What the Bible Says about the Cross by Magrey DeVega. Books are $17.00 in the Church Office. Please note that reading the book isn’t required! The first session will start on Monday, February 19 from 4:30-6:00 PM (Hawaii), 6:30-8:00 PM (Pacific) and 7:30-9:00 PM (Mountain). The study will conclude on Mon., March 25.
Afghanistan and Ukranian Refugee Donation Ministry
At this time, needed items include women’s products, toothpaste, personal care items, rice cookers, blenders, mixing bowls, microwave ovens, toasters, mixers, irons, dish sets, towels, and blankets. No to clothes or toys.
Blaine Memorial UMC Collection Hours: Tuesday-Friday between 10:00AM-4:00PM. Call the Church Office at (206) 723-1536 prior to dropping off your items.
South King County Response Center Collection Volunteer Hours: Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays from 10:00AM-2:00PM, same time as the Tukwila Pantry at 3118 S. 140th St. Seattle. Please text Kim Parks at (206) 683-1707 when you would like to help. Please wear a mask and bring a marking pen and measuring tape if possible. Other Questions? Please contact Donna Sekijima at: donnasek@outlook.com and/or Anne Arakaki-Lock at: salock@comcast.net.
Welcome of Graceand Greeting Rev. Karen Yokota Love
*Call to Worship By Hancock,Discipleship Ministries Rev. Mia MiKyung Park
*Opening Hymn Lord, Who Throughout These Forty Days UMH #269, Verses 1-3 Kathy and Eugene Onishi
Opening Prayer Rev. Mia MiKyung Park
Scripture Reading Genesis 9:8-17 (CEB, JLB) Tsutomu Nagoya and Nina Chinn
Children’s Message Rev. Mia MiKyung Park
Pastoral Prayer Rev. Karen Yokota Love
Special Music Without His Cross By Joseph M. Martin Blaine Memorial UMC Choir
Scripture Reading Matthew 25:35-40 (CEB) ?25:35-40 Tsutomu Nagoya and Nina Chinn
Introduction to Day of Remembrance Gail Nomura
Poetry Reading Another Day of Infamy Suma Yagi
Personal Testimonials Keiko Yanagihara Susan Yanagihara Tom Kometani Susan Dittman Kenji Onishi
Day of Remembrance Video Gail Nomura The Archives Committee
Song of Reflection I Believe The Kenji Onishi Family
Closing Lenten Meditation Rev. Karen Yokota Love
Introductionto the Offering Rev. Mia MiKyung Park
Doxology Praise God, from WhomAll Blessings Flow Kathy Onishi
Prayer of Dedication Rev. Mia MiKyung Park
Announcements Rev. Karen Yokota Love
*Closing Hymn Holy, Holy, Holy!Lord God Almighty (UMH #64) Kathy and Eugene Onishi
Benediction Rev. Karen Yokota Love
Postlude We are Called Kathy Onishi
Passing of the Peace Rev. Karen Yokota Love
Sermon Questions
Please watch and reflect on the feelings and emotions of our congregation in 1942 going into the wilderness not knowing what will happen to them but going forth in faith in God. Knowing this story, what steps should we all take to safeguard the human and civil rights of all people during times of crisis?
Why is it important for a community and society at large, to remember its past errors? What are some ways that the Japanese American community remember the incarceration? What are some ways that the Japanese American community commemorates the incarceration?
With an awareness of the history and lessons of the Japanese American incarceration, what can we do to ensure that such an injustice is not repeated, for any group of people?
Lectionary Readings
Sunday, February 18, 2024: Genesis 9:8-17; Psalm 25:1-10; 1 Peter 3:18-22; Mark 1:9-15
Monday, February 19, 2024: Psalm 77; Job 4:1-21; Ephesians 2:1-10
Tuesday, February 20, 2024: Psalm 77; Job 5:8-27; 1 Peter 3:8-18a
Wednesday, February 21, 2024: Psalm 77; Proverbs 30:1-9; Matthew 4:1-11
Friday, February 23, 2024: Psalm 22:23-31; Genesis 16:1-6; Romans 4:1-12
Saturday, February 24, 2024: Psalm 22:23-31; Genesis 16:7-15; Mark 8:27-30
Announcements
Last year at the Day of Remembrance Part II, members of Blaine Memorial UMC caravaned to the Northwest Detention Center in Tacoma, Wash. The solidarity with the Japanese American community and those who are in the NWDC link the past and present injustices, drew attention to worsening conditions inside NWDC. Photo by Ryan Kozu.
Day of Remembrance 2024 “Remember & Resist”
Sunday, February 18, 1:00 – 3:30 pm (One event at TWO sites)
Washington State Fairgrounds’ Agriplex 5th St SW, Puyallup, WA 98371 1:00 – 1:45pm
Northwest Detention Center 1623 E J Street, Tacoma, WA 98421 2:30 – 3:30 pm
February 19, 2024 will mark 82 years since the signing of Executive Order 9066, ordering the forced removal and mass incarceration of Japanese Americans on the West Coast. Most Japanese Americans in the Seattle area spent their first few months in detention at the Puyallup Assembly Center, ironically nicknamed “Camp Harmony.” It’s now the site of the State fairgrounds.
The trauma of family separation, child imprisonment, poor sanitation, bad food, inadequate health care, and uncertain futures CONTINUES today at Northwest Detention Center (NWDC) in Tacoma, just a 20 minute drive from Puyallup. NWDC is a private prison with capacity to hold 1500 immigrants, but Immigration Customs Enforcement (ICE) is secretive and never disclose how many are incarcerated or who they are. We know most are from Mexico, Central & South America, Southeast Asia, India, Africa and the Middle East who seek asylum and opportunity in the US.
Conditions inside are horrific; detainees often hold long hunger strikes demanding humane treatment and their legal rights. There were 7 last year and another in January. This private for profit prison in our state must shut down.
Join us to hear from incarceration survivors at both Puyallup and Tacoma – Japanese American camp survivors and people recently detained at NWDC. There will be Taiko! When we raise the roof with drums and voices, those held inside know they are not forgotten.
Please come to both parts of this important event – we will remember our past AND speak out for the rights of others.
Organized by Tsuru for Solidarity, La Resistencia, Puyallup and Seattle chapters of the JACL, Minidoka Pilgrimage Planning Committee, and Densho. For more information, media inquiries, and to find out about volunteer opportunities email info@seattlejacl.org.
Wednesday Meditation & Prayer • February 21 at 9am
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!
Lent Book Studies
The Third Day: Living the Resurrection Lenten Book Study
This year’s All Church Lenten study is The Third Day: Living the Resurrection by Tom Berlin and Mark A. Miller. This study will begin on Tuesday, February 13, at 7 pm via Zoom and will be facilitated by Rev. Mia MiKyung Park and Rev. Karen Yokota Love. The link will be emailed prior to the meeting date. We will also meet on Tuesdays: 2/20, 2/27, 3/5, 3/12, and 3/19 to discuss each chapter.
The Office is selling The Third Day: Living the Resurrection books for $14.00 and the Leader Guide is $12.00. You are welcome to buy the book in the Office and read with your small groups.
In The Third Day: Living the Resurrection, Tom Berlin uses his storytelling gifts and scriptural understanding to connect readers to the experiences of individuals around Jesus in his final days. The focus is on new life and redemption rather than loss.
Come and journey with characters like Peter, Mary Magdalene, and Thomas as they experience the despair of losing Jesus and the surprise and joy that awaits them in the resurrection. This study will explore events around these characters, along with Paul and the disciples at Emmaus, and how the resurrection transforms their lives.
NJAUMC Lenten Book Study begins on Monday, Feb. 19, 2024!
You’re invited to join Rev. John Miyahara (US Navy Chaplain), Rev. Brian Lee (Simpson UMC), and members of the Japanese American United Methodist Caucus congregations in a 6-week Advent book study. We will be reading Savior: What the Bible Says about the Cross by Magrey DeVega. Books are $17.00 in the Church Office. Please note that reading the book isn’t required! The first session will start on Monday, February 19 from 4:30-6:00 PM (Hawaii), 6:30-8:00 PM (Pacific) and 7:30-9:00 PM (Mountain). The study will conclude on Mon., March 25.
Sukiyaki Dinner Returns!
Saturday, March 2, 2024 • Blaine Memorial UMC
More information to come!
Afghanistan and Ukranian Refugee Donation Ministry
At this time, needed items include women’s products, toothpaste, personal care items, rice cookers, blenders, mixing bowls, microwave ovens, toasters, mixers, irons, dish sets, towels, and blankets. No to clothes or toys.
Blaine Memorial UMC Collection Hours: Tuesday-Friday between 10:00AM-4:00PM. Call the Church Office at (206) 723-1536 prior to dropping off your items.
South King County Response Center Collection Volunteer Hours: Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays from 10:00AM-2:00PM, same time as the Tukwila Pantry at 3118 S. 140th St. Seattle. Please text Kim Parks at (206) 683-1707 when you would like to help. Please wear a mask and bring a marking pen and measuring tape if possible. Other Questions? Please contact Donna Sekijima at: donnasek@outlook.com and/or Anne Arakaki-Lock at: salock@comcast.net.
Continue scrolling or view the print version of the bulletin
Order of Worship
Prelude Dear Lord and Fatherof Mankind (UMH #358) Yuki Sofronas
Opening Prayer Rev. Mia MiKyung Park
Congregational Hymn Lord, Who Throughout These Forty Days Verses 1-3 (UMH #269) Yuki Sofronas
Scripture Reading Joel 2:12-13 Barbara Nagaoka
Prayer of Confession Rev. Karen Yokota Love
Scripture Reading Genesis 3:19 Barbara Nagaoka
Scripture Reading Matthew 6:1-6, 16-21 Barbara Nagaoka
Meditation Rev. Karen Yokota Love
Hymn ofContemplation Jesus, Remember Me (UMH #488) Yuki Sofronas
Explanation of the Recognition of Ashes Rev. Mia MiKyung Park Take Time to Be Holy (UMH #395) Yuki Sofronas
Closing Hymn I Surrender All (UMH #354) Yuki Sofronas
Benediction Rev. Karen Yokota Love
Postlude Lord, Who Throughout These Forty Days (UMH #269) Yuki Sofronas
Sermon Questions
How is the Ash Wednesday Gospel message more about our motives than our actions? (Matt 6:1-6, 16-21)
What do we learn about the character of God from Joel 2:12-13?
How can you return to/reboot your relationship with God?
Lectionary Readings
Wednesday, February 14, 2024: Ash Wednesday Joel 2:1-2, 12-17 or Isaiah 58:1-12; Psalm 51:1-17; 2 Corinthians 5:20b-6:10; Matthew 6:1-6, 16-21
Thursday, February 15, 2024: Psalm 25:1-10; Daniel 9:1-14; 1 John 1:3-10
Friday, February 16, 2024: Psalm 25:1-10; Daniel 9:15-25a; 2 Timothy 4:1-5
Saturday, February 17, 2024: Psalm 25:1-10; Psalm 32; Matthew 9:2-13
Announcements
Lent Book Studies
The Third Day: Living the Resurrection Lenten Book Study
This year’s All Church Lenten study is The Third Day: Living the Resurrection by Tom Berlin and Mark A. Miller. This study will begin on Tuesday, February 13, at 7 pm via Zoom and will be facilitated by Rev. Mia MiKyung Park and Rev. Karen Yokota Love. The link will be emailed prior to the meeting date. We will also meet on Tuesdays: 2/20, 2/27, 3/5, 3/12, and 3/19 to discuss each chapter.
The Office is selling The Third Day: Living the Resurrection books for $14.00 and the Leader Guide is $12.00. You are welcome to buy the book in the Office and read with your small groups.
In The Third Day: Living the Resurrection, Tom Berlin uses his storytelling gifts and scriptural understanding to connect readers to the experiences of individuals around Jesus in his final days. The focus is on new life and redemption rather than loss.
Come and journey with characters like Peter, Mary Magdalene, and Thomas as they experience the despair of losing Jesus and the surprise and joy that awaits them in the resurrection. This study will explore events around these characters, along with Paul and the disciples at Emmaus, and how the resurrection transforms their lives.
NJAUMC Lenten Book Study begins on Monday, Feb. 19, 2024!
You’re invited to join Rev. John Miyahara (US Navy Chaplain), Rev. Brian Lee (Simpson UMC), and members of the Japanese American United Methodist Caucus congregations in a 6-week Advent book study. We will be reading Savior: What the Bible Says about the Cross by Magrey DeVega. Books are $17.00 in the Church Office. Please note that reading the book isn’t required! The first session will start on Monday, February 19 from 4:30-6:00 PM (Hawaii), 6:30-8:00 PM (Pacific) and 7:30-9:00 PM (Mountain). The study will conclude on Mon., March 25.
Bob Ross Painting Night • Friday, February 16!
Join the Innovation Hub for an evening of fellowship, painting, and relaxing while we watch Bob Ross on Friday, February 16 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! All are welcome. Scan the QR code or sign up here: https://forms.gle/5eLsmiRjoP3FFbaz6
Please email Lynne Onishi at lynneonishi@gmail.com with any questions. We can’t wait to see you there!
Last year at the Day of Remembrance Part II, members of Blaine Memorial UMC caravaned to the Northwest Detention Center in Tacoma, Wash. The solidarity with the Japanese American community and those who are in the NWDC link the past and present injustices, drew attention to worsening conditions inside NWDC. Photo by Ryan Kozu.
Day of Remembrance 2024 “Remember & Resist”
Sunday, February 18, 1:00 – 3:30 pm (One event at TWO sites)
Washington State Fairgrounds’ Agriplex 5th St SW, Puyallup, WA 98371 1:00 – 1:45pm
Northwest Detention Center 1623 E J Street, Tacoma, WA 98421 2:30 – 3:30 pm
February 19, 2024 will mark 82 years since the signing of Executive Order 9066, ordering the forced removal and mass incarceration of Japanese Americans on the West Coast. Most Japanese Americans in the Seattle area spent their first few months in detention at the Puyallup Assembly Center, ironically nicknamed “Camp Harmony.” It’s now the site of the State fairgrounds.
The trauma of family separation, child imprisonment, poor sanitation, bad food, inadequate health care, and uncertain futures CONTINUES today at Northwest Detention Center (NWDC) in Tacoma, just a 20 minute drive from Puyallup. NWDC is a private prison with capacity to hold 1500 immigrants, but Immigration Customs Enforcement (ICE) is secretive and never disclose how many are incarcerated or who they are. We know most are from Mexico, Central & South America, Southeast Asia, India, Africa and the Middle East who seek asylum and opportunity in the US.
Conditions inside are horrific; detainees often hold long hunger strikes demanding humane treatment and their legal rights. There were 7 last year and another in January. This private for profit prison in our state must shut down.
Join us to hear from incarceration survivors at both Puyallup and Tacoma – Japanese American camp survivors and people recently detained at NWDC. There will be Taiko! When we raise the roof with drums and voices, those held inside know they are not forgotten.
Please come to both parts of this important event – we will remember our past AND speak out for the rights of others.
Organized by Tsuru for Solidarity, La Resistencia, Puyallup and Seattle chapters of the JACL, Minidoka Pilgrimage Planning Committee, and Densho. For more information, media inquiries, and to find out about volunteer opportunities email info@seattlejacl.org.
Sukiyaki Dinner Returns!
Saturday, March 2, 2024 • Blaine Memorial UMC
More information to come!
Afghanistan and Ukranian Refugee Donation Ministry
At this time, needed items include women’s products, toothpaste, personal care items, rice cookers, blenders, mixing bowls, microwave ovens, toasters, mixers, irons, dish sets, towels, and blankets. No to clothes or toys.
Blaine Memorial UMC Collection Hours: Tuesday-Friday between 10:00AM-4:00PM. Call the Church Office at (206) 723-1536 prior to dropping off your items.
South King County Response Center Collection Volunteer Hours: Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays from 10:00AM-2:00PM, same time as the Tukwila Pantry at 3118 S. 140th St. Seattle. Please text Kim Parks at (206) 683-1707 when you would like to help. Please wear a mask and bring a marking pen and measuring tape if possible. Other Questions? Please contact Donna Sekijima at: donnasek@outlook.com and/or Anne Arakaki-Lock at: salock@comcast.net.
Wednesday, February 14, 2024: Ash Wednesday Joel 2:1-2, 12-17 or Isaiah 58:1-12; Psalm 51:1-17; 2 Corinthians 5:20b-6:10; Matthew 6:1-6, 16-21
Thursday, February 15, 2024: Psalm 25:1-10; Daniel 9:1-14; 1 John 1:3-10
Friday, February 16, 2024: Psalm 25:1-10; Daniel 9:15-25a; 2 Timothy 4:1-5
Saturday, February 17, 2024: Psalm 25:1-10; Psalm 32; Matthew 9:2-13
Announcements
Wednesday Meditation & Prayer • February 14 at 9am
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!
Ash Wednesday Service • February 14, 11am in the Sanctuary
Ash Wednesday begins early this year and shares the day with Valentine’s Day – February 14 – a special day for celebrating love between couples, family members, friends, and ourselves. Ash Wednesday marks the beginning of the Season of Lent. Lent is a season of penance, reflection, and fasting which prepares us for Christ’s resurrection on Easter Sunday, through which we attain redemption. Ashes are placed on the forehead with the words “Remember that you are dust, and to dust you shall return.” Ashes are a symbol that helps us develop a spirit of humility and sacrifice.
This year’s Ash Wednesday service will be on February 14 at 11:00AM followed by a simple soup lunch in the Social Hall. Please join us in worship as we begin the holy journey of prayer, fasting and remembrances. This service will be live-streamed.
Lent Book Studies
The Third Day: Living the Resurrection Lenten Book Study
This year’s All Church Lenten study is The Third Day: Living the Resurrection by Tom Berlin and Mark A. Miller. This study will begin on Tuesday, February 13, at 7 pm via Zoom and will be facilitated by Rev. Mia MiKyung Park and Rev. Karen Yokota Love. The link will be emailed prior to the meeting date. We will also meet on Tuesdays: 2/20, 2/27, 3/5, 3/12, and 3/19 to discuss each chapter.
The Office is selling The Third Day: Living the Resurrection books for $14.00 and the Leader Guide is $12.00. You are welcome to buy the book in the Office and read with your small groups.
In The Third Day: Living the Resurrection, Tom Berlin uses his storytelling gifts and scriptural understanding to connect readers to the experiences of individuals around Jesus in his final days. The focus is on new life and redemption rather than loss.
Come and journey with characters like Peter, Mary Magdalene, and Thomas as they experience the despair of losing Jesus and the surprise and joy that awaits them in the resurrection. This study will explore events around these characters, along with Paul and the disciples at Emmaus, and how the resurrection transforms their lives.
NJAUMC Lenten Book Study begins on Monday, Feb. 19, 2024!
You’re invited to join Rev. John Miyahara (US Navy Chaplain), Rev. Brian Lee (Simpson UMC), and members of the Japanese American United Methodist Caucus congregations in a 6-week Advent book study. We will be reading Savior: What the Bible Says about the Cross by Magrey DeVega. Books are $17.00 in the Church Office. Please note that reading the book isn’t required! The first session will start on Monday, February 19 from 4:30-6:00 PM (Hawaii), 6:30-8:00 PM (Pacific) and 7:30-9:00 PM (Mountain). The study will conclude on Mon., March 25.
Bob Ross Painting Night • Friday, February 16!
Join the Innovation Hub for an evening of fellowship, painting, and relaxing while we watch Bob Ross on Friday, February 16 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! All are welcome. Scan the QR code or sign up here: https://forms.gle/5eLsmiRjoP3FFbaz6
Please email Lynne Onishi at lynneonishi@gmail.com with any questions. We can’t wait to see you there!
Last year at the Day of Remembrance Part II, members of Blaine Memorial UMC caravaned to the Northwest Detention Center in Tacoma, Wash. The solidarity with the Japanese American community and those who are in the NWDC link the past and present injustices, drew attention to worsening conditions inside NWDC. Photo by Ryan Kozu.
Day of Remembrance 2024 “Remember & Resist”
Sunday, February 18, 1:00 – 3:30 pm (One event at TWO sites)
Washington State Fairgrounds’ Agriplex 5th St SW, Puyallup, WA 98371 1:00 – 1:45pm
Northwest Detention Center 1623 E J Street, Tacoma, WA 98421 2:30 – 3:30 pm
February 19, 2024 will mark 82 years since the signing of Executive Order 9066, ordering the forced removal and mass incarceration of Japanese Americans on the West Coast. Most Japanese Americans in the Seattle area spent their first few months in detention at the Puyallup Assembly Center, ironically nicknamed “Camp Harmony.” It’s now the site of the State fairgrounds.
The trauma of family separation, child imprisonment, poor sanitation, bad food, inadequate health care, and uncertain futures CONTINUES today at Northwest Detention Center (NWDC) in Tacoma, just a 20 minute drive from Puyallup. NWDC is a private prison with capacity to hold 1500 immigrants, but Immigration Customs Enforcement (ICE) is secretive and never disclose how many are incarcerated or who they are. We know most are from Mexico, Central & South America, Southeast Asia, India, Africa and the Middle East who seek asylum and opportunity in the US.
Conditions inside are horrific; detainees often hold long hunger strikes demanding humane treatment and their legal rights. There were 7 last year and another in January. This private for profit prison in our state must shut down.
Join us to hear from incarceration survivors at both Puyallup and Tacoma – Japanese American camp survivors and people recently detained at NWDC. There will be Taiko! When we raise the roof with drums and voices, those held inside know they are not forgotten.
Please come to both parts of this important event – we will remember our past AND speak out for the rights of others.
Organized by Tsuru for Solidarity, La Resistencia, Puyallup and Seattle chapters of the JACL, Minidoka Pilgrimage Planning Committee, and Densho. For more information, media inquiries, and to find out about volunteer opportunities email info@seattlejacl.org.
Sukiyaki Dinner Returns!
Saturday, March 2, 2024 • Blaine Memorial UMC
More information to come!
Afghanistan and Ukranian Refugee Donation Ministry
At this time, needed items include women’s products, toothpaste, personal care items, rice cookers, blenders, mixing bowls, microwave ovens, toasters, mixers, irons, dish sets, towels, and blankets. No to clothes or toys.
Blaine Memorial UMC Collection Hours: Tuesday-Friday between 10:00AM-4:00PM. Call the Church Office at (206) 723-1536 prior to dropping off your items.
South King County Response Center Collection Volunteer Hours: Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays from 10:00AM-2:00PM, same time as the Tukwila Pantry at 3118 S. 140th St. Seattle. Please text Kim Parks at (206) 683-1707 when you would like to help. Please wear a mask and bring a marking pen and measuring tape if possible. Other Questions? Please contact Donna Sekijima at: donnasek@outlook.com and/or Anne Arakaki-Lock at: salock@comcast.net.
