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Fifth Sunday after Pentecost Comments Off on Fifth Sunday after Pentecost

Fifth Sunday after Pentecost

Posted by on Jul 11, 2025 in Archives, Blaine Youth Group, Church News & Events, Congregational Care, Giving, Miscellaneous, Prayer, Sermons, Service Opportunities, Spiritual Formation, Sunday Worship, Videos, Weekly Calendar

All are Welcome!



Sermon Reflection Questions

  • What have you heard recently that inspired hope?
  • How did they come to embrace this hope?
  • What does Paul’s prayer of thanksgiving celebrate about the fruit of hope in the lives of the “saints and faithful brothers and sisters in Christ in Colossae?’
  • What is the connection between these petitions and the hope the Colossians heard?

Order of Worship

Prelude
Holy, Holy
Jimmy Owens
Kathy Onishi
Welcome of Grace and Greeting
Pastor Job Pangilinan
Land Acknowledgement
Pastor Job Pangilinan
*Call to Worship
Pastor Job Pangilinan
*Opening Hymn
For the Healing of the Nations
UMH #428
Kathy and Eugene Onishi
Opening Prayer
Pastor Job Pangilinan
Children’s Message
Mike Takahashi
First Scripture Reading
Colossians 1:1-14 (CEB)
Tsutomu Nagoya
Linda Fazio
Prayers of the People
Pastor Karen Yokota Love
Second Scripture Reading
Luke 10:25-37 (CEB)
Tsutomu Nagoya
Linda Fazio
Sermon
Heard of this Hope
Pastor Karen Yokota Love
Hymn of Reflection
To Know You More
TFWS #2161
Kathy and Eugene Onishi
Introduction to the Offering
(Optional: Give online at Realm)
Linda Fazio
*Doxology
Praise God, from Whom All Blessings Flow
UMH #94
Kathy and Eugene Onishi
*Prayer of Dedication
Linda Fazio
Announcements
Pastor Karen Yokota Love
*Closing Hymn
I’m Gonna Live So God Can Use Me
TFWS #2153
Kathy and Eugene Onishi
*Benediction
Pastor Karen Yokota Love
Postlude
Give Thanks
Henry Smith: arr. by Ken Barker
Kathy Onishi
Altar Flowers
Today’s altar flowers are designed by Carol Kastrup.
Zoom Fellowship Breakout Room
The Zoom Fellowship Breakout Room is canceled today.

Daily Lectionary Readings

Sunday, July 13, 2025:
Amos 7:7-17 and Psalm 82; Deuteronomy 30:9-14 
and Psalm 25:1-10; Colossians 1:1-14; Luke 10:25-37
Monday, July 14, 2025:
Semi-continuous: Psalm 7; Amos 3:9-4:5; James 2:1-7;
Complementary: Psalm 25:11-20; Job 24:1-8; James 2:1-7;
Tuesday, July 15, 2025:
Semi-continuous: Psalm 7; Amos 4:6-13; 1 John 3:11-17;
Complementary: Psalm 25:11-20; Proverbs 19:1-17; 1 John 3:11-17;
Wednesday, July 16, 2025:
Semi-continuous: Psalm 7; Amos 5:1-9; Matthew 25:31-46;
Complementary: Psalm 25:11-20; Ecclesiastes 9:13-18; Matthew 25:31-46;
Thursday, July 17, 2025:
Semi-continuous: Psalm 52; Amos 5:10-17; Hebrews 5:1-6;
Complementary: Psalm 15; Genesis 12:10-20; Hebrews 5:1-6;
Friday, July 18, 2025:
Semi-continuous: Psalm 52; Amos 5:18-27; Ephesians 3:14-21;
Complementary: Psalm 15; Genesis 13:1-18; Ephesians 3:14-21;
Saturday, July 19, 2025:
Semi-continuous: Psalm 52; Amos 6:1-14; Luke 8:4-10;
Complementary: Psalm 15; Genesis 14:1-16; Luke 8:4-10;

Announcements



Rev. Job Pangilinan and Rev. Karen Yokota Love at the Commissioning and Ordination Worship Service at Annual Conference. Join us for a BBQ Celebration on July 20!

A BBQ Celebration as Blaine Memorial Welcomes Pastor Job Pangilinan and the Reappointment of Pastor Karen Yokota Love!

  • When: July 20, 2025, after worship
  • Where: Lee Activity Center (LAC)

Please join us on Sunday, June 20, after worship for a BBQ to celebrate Rev. Karen’s reappointment and Rev. Job’s new appointment to Blaine! We are asking people to contribute picnic-type side dishes for this festive occasion.

Suggestions by last name:

  • A-H – Green or fruit salad or your favorite
  • I-S – Potato salad or pasta salad or your favorite
  • T-Z – Dessert

SPRC will provide hamburgers, hot dogs, chips and cake (but additional desserts are always appreciated)! Questions? Contact Arlene Naganawa (arlene_naganawa@msn.com).

A 1,000 paper cranes symbolizes longevity, happiness and good fortune.

Thousand Paper Crane Project

  • Due: July 20, 2025
  • Where: Church Office

The Archives Committee is asking church members to come together to pray for peace by folding 1000 paper cranes as we commemorate the 80th anniversary of the atomic bombing of Hiroshima and Nagasaki, the end of World War II, and the closing of the World War II US incarceration camps which imprisoned Japanese Americans.

The folding of 1000 origami cranes has come to symbolize a prayer for peace.

We would like members to fold the origami cranes during social hour after service, in Sunday School, in your small groups, and at your homes and other spaces. We can give you some origami paper or you can use your own origami paper (6-inches by 6-inches). Please give or send your origami cranes to the church office as soon as you finish or by July 20, 2025.

Wednesday Prayer and Coffee  

  • When: 9:00AM
  • Where: Zoom

Join us for prayer and community on Wednesdays at 9:00AM on Zoom. Our time together consists of brief check-ins, devotionals, and prayers. This is a great way to continue with Lent, clear and center your mind, all while connecting with God and your prayer community. Feel free to bring a cup of coffee, tea, and a bite to eat. Hope to see you on Wednesday.

Cancelled: Church Retreat, A Message from Harry Tang

We regret to inform you that the upcoming church retreat, scheduled for the weekend of August 22, has been canceled due to low registration. 

We understand this may be disappointing news, and we sincerely appreciate your interest and support. For those who have already registered, we’ll reach out to you directly.

Thank you for your understanding and continued commitment to our church community. Stay tuned for future opportunities to gather, reflect, and grow together.

Request for Potato Chips and Savory Treats

Thank you, everyone, for bringing in sweet and savory treats for our fellowship time on Sundays. We all enjoy them and are now running low. Please consider bringing in some of your favorite individually wrapped chips to share. Examples are potato chips, Doritos, Cheetos, etc. We appreciate your generosity. 

You may drop the treats off in the social hall kitchen area on Sundays or during church office hours.

We are always in need of more helpers in the kitchen for our fellowship time and it’s a great way to get to know others. Please see Julie Lock if you would like to be added to our rotation list. Thank you!

Your generous donations make a huge impact on our neighbors!

Migrant and Refugee Donation Ministry at Riverton Park UMC!

  • When: Tuesday-Friday between 10:00AM-4:00PM
  • Where: Church Office

Riverton Park UMC needs:

  • 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.

Click the image above to view our latest issue or view past issues here.

Our Story Continues!

View the July 2025 Calendar

August 2025

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Pride Sunday Comments Off on Pride Sunday

Pride Sunday

Posted by on Jun 29, 2025 in Archives, Blaine Youth Group, Church News & Events, Congregational Care, Giving, Miscellaneous, Prayer, Sermons, Service Opportunities, Small Groups, Spiritual Formation, Sunday Worship, Weekly Calendar

All are Welcome!

Sermon Questions

  • How does serving one another in love manifest in daily life?
  • What does it mean to be free in Christ and how does this freedom relate to the law?
  • What is the relationship between the fruit of the Spirit and the works of the flesh? 
  • How can believers cultivate a life led by the Spirit?

Order of Worship

Prelude
The Compassion Hymn
Keith and Kristyn Getty, Stuart Townend
Kathy Onishi
Welcome of Grace and Greeting
Rev. Karen Yokota Love
Land Acknowledgement
Rev. Karen Yokota Love
*Call to Worship
Lesley Okura 
*Opening Hymn
Spirit, Spirit of Gentleness
TFWS #2120
Kathy and Eugene Onishi
Opening Prayer
Lesley Okura 
First Scripture Reading
Isaiah 26:4 (CEB)
Tsutomu Nagoya, Lesley Okura
Children’s Message
Sai Hanaoka
Second Scripture Reading
Galatians 5:1, 13-25 (CEB)
Tsutomu Nagoya, Lesley Okura 
Sermon
Let the Spirit Lead 
Rev. Karen Yokota Love
Hymn of Reflection
Cry of My Heart 
TFWS #2165  
Kathy and Eugene Onishi
Introduction to the Offering
Lesley Okura 
*Doxology
Praise God, from Whom All Blessings Flow
UMH #94
Kathy and Eugene Onishi
*Prayer of Dedication
Lesley Okura 
Announcements
*Closing Hymn
Would I Have Answered When You Called
TFWS #2137
Kathy and Eugene Onishi
*Benediction
Rev. Karen Yokota Love 
Postlude
For Everyone Born
By Brian Mann
Kathy Onishi
Zoom Fellowship Breakout Room
Dale Kaneko
Today’s Flowers
Miriam Tong

Daily Lectionary Readings

Sunday, June 29, 2025: Proper 8 (13)
2 Kings 2:1-2, 6-14 and Psalm 77:1-2, 11-20; 1 Kings 19:15-16, 19-21 and Psalm 16
Galatians 5:1, 13-25
Monday, June 30, 2025:
Semi-continuous: Psalm 75; 2 Kings 2:15-22; 1 John 2:7-11;
Complementary: Psalm 140; Genesis 24:34-41, 50-67; 1 John 2:7-11;
Tuesday, July 01, 2025:
Semi-continuous: Psalm 75; 2 Kings 3:4-20; Ephesians 5:6-20;
Complementary: Psalm 140; Jeremiah 3:15-18; Ephesians 5:6-20;
Wednesday, July 02, 2025:
Semi-continuous: Psalm 75; 2 Kings 4:1-7; Matthew 10:16-25;
Complementary: Psalm 140; Jeremiah 23:16-22; Matthew 10:16-25;
Thursday, July 03, 2025:
Semi-continuous: Psalm 30; 2 Kings 4:8-17; Romans 7:14-25;
Complementary: Psalm 66:1-9; 2 Kings 21:1-15; Romans 7:14-25;
Friday, July 04, 2025:
Semi-continuous: Psalm 30; 2 Kings 4:18-31; 2 Corinthians 8:1-7;
Complementary: Psalm 66:1-9; Jeremiah 51:47-58; 2 Corinthians 8:1-7;
Saturday, July 05, 2025:
Semi-continuous: Psalm 30; 2 Kings 4:32-37; Luke 9:1-6;
Complementary: Psalm 66:1-9; Zechariah 14:10-21; Luke 9:1-6;

Announcements

The Revs. Paul Ortiz and Karen Yokota Love prepare for Closing Worship at The Pacific Northwest Annual Conference 2025.
Ron Nobuyama and George Yates serve as Delegates representing Blaine Memorial UMC.
Bishop Cedrick D. Bridgeforth welcomes everyone to The Pacific Northwest Annual Conference Sessions 2025.
Bishop Cedrick D. Bridgeforth, Bishop of The Greater Northwest Area of The United Methodist Church has cast a vision: the M.I.L.E. How can we live into this vision for Blaine Memorial UMC?
The Blaine Ukulele Group of Seattle performed two songs during Opening Worship!
Pastor Job Pangilinan prepares for robing before Closing Worship.

We are Blessed and Broken: Returning from #pnwac25

Dear Blaine – Your delegates, fellow church members, and Senior Pastor AND our new Associate Pastor have returned from this year’s Pacific Northwest Annual Conference Sessions in Bothell, Washington. This event was from June 26-28 at Bothell UMC. 

We discussed issues pertaining to the church regarding regionalization, climate, and administrative matters. We also had a great time with a Ministry Fair, singing performances, and reconnecting with friends from the past and making new friends as well.

If you would like to learn more, visit pnwumc.org. Or, check out their FB page. A richer report from Blaine Memorial’s team will be provided soon – check out our website soon!

Prayer and Coffee • Wednesdays at 9am 

Join us for prayer and community on Wednesdays at 9:00AM on Zoom. Our time together consists of brief check-ins, devotionals, and prayers. This is a great way to continue with Lent, clear and center your mind, all while connecting with God and your prayer community. Feel free to bring a cup of coffee, tea, and a bite to eat. Hope to see you on Wednesday.

Cancelled: Church Retreat, A Message from Harry Tang

We regret to inform you that the upcoming church retreat, scheduled for the weekend of August 22, has been canceled due to low registration. 

We understand this may be disappointing news, and we sincerely appreciate your interest and support. For those who have already registered, we’ll reach out to you directly.

Thank you for your understanding and continued commitment to our church community. Stay tuned for future opportunities to gather, reflect, and grow together.

Request for Potato Chips and Savory Treats

Thank you, everyone, for bringing in sweet and savory treats for our fellowship time on Sundays. We all enjoy them and are now running low. Please consider bringing in some of your favorite individually wrapped chips to share. Examples are potato chips, Doritos, Cheetos, etc. We appreciate your generosity. 

You may drop the treats off in the social hall kitchen area on Sundays or during church office hours.

We are always in need of more helpers in the kitchen for our fellowship time and it’s a great way to get to know others. Please see Julie Lock if you would like to be added to our rotation list. Thank you!

Click the image above to view our latest issue or view past issues here.

Our Story Continues!

View the June 2025 Calendar

July 2025 | August 2025

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In Photos – Sukiyaki Benefit connects neighbors, supports disaster relief Comments Off on In Photos – Sukiyaki Benefit connects neighbors, supports disaster relief

In Photos – Sukiyaki Benefit connects neighbors, supports disaster relief

Posted by on Apr 23, 2025 in Archives, Church News & Events, Giving, Service Opportunities, Spiritual Formation, Weekly Calendar

Elaine Chin serves up hot and fresh sukiyaki beef. Blaine Memorial UMC’s annual Sukiyaki Benefit was held on March 1, 2025 and supported Wildfire Disaster Response in Southern California.

In Photos – Sukiyaki Benefit connects neighbors, supports disaster relief

By Lesley Okura, photos by the Rev. Karen Yokota Love, Jesse N. Love, and Kai Yamamoto

As we continue to celebrate the 120th anniversary of Blaine Memorial UMC, we reflect on our church community and the world at large. We have suffered many challenges so early in the year and pray for peace and harmony going forward. To this end, the first of our annual fundraising events, Sukiyaki 2025, was a resounding success with our meal numbers up and our contribution to the California Wildfire Disaster Response through United Methodist Committee on Relief totaling more than $20,000.

Ryan Kozu and Anne Arakaki-Lock separate Sukiyaki meat as a part of the preparation work for the big event!

Howard Nakase and David Yorozu make it a team effort as volunteers from Blaine Memorial cook sukiyaki beef. Thank you to all the vendors, prep chefs, and others who helped make this year’s Sukiyaki event possible!

Anita Kuroiwa-Schiff and Arlene Naganawa pack hot rice to serve alongside delicious sukiyaki.


The Sukiyaki Committee appreciates all the support of the congregation, their families and friends to help make Sukiyaki such a success. With over 150 souls working pre-, during, and post-Sukiyaki Dinner, making all the working parts move in sync (including many behind-the-scenes individuals) guests were treated to an efficient and flawless dinner service. It is a blessing to be able to serve our church and surrounding communities with many selfless members who do so with grace and gratitude.

Justine I. sells Dale Kaneko homemade desserts while Kristen and Mark Hatate supervise.

Jerry and Pam Ikegami enjoy Sukiyaki for lunch after working a shift.

While guests were dining, Uncle Rod Higuchi and Casey Nakatani from the Blaine Ukulele Group of Seattle (B.U.G.S.) provided musical entertainment.


If you would like to support future fundraising events for Blaine Memorial UMC or disaster response for California Wildfire Disaster Response, contact Rev. Karen or the church office for more details. Thank you for your support!

Announcements

Read the latest issue of the Beacon!

Click the image above to view the latest issue. Or, view past issues here.

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.

The Ireicho document listing the 125,000+ persons of Japanese ancestry incarcerated by the US Government during World War 2. Image courtesy of Matsujima/Wikipedia.

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.

Sign up now!

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

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Back to Our Roots Comments Off on Back to Our Roots

Back to Our Roots

Posted by on Mar 4, 2025 in Archives, Blaine Youth Group, Church News & Events, Giving, Prayer, Spiritual Formation, Sunday Worship, Weekly Calendar

Blaine Memorial United Methodist Church, Sunday, January 26, 2025

Back to Our Roots

By Jesse N. Love, photos by Kai Yamamoto, additional photos by the Rev. Karen Yokota Love

Friends and family of Blaine Memorial United Methodist celebrated faithfully the Church’s 120th and 121st Anniversary! The congregation welcomed back former clergy who served Blaine Memorial for years, including Bishop Robert T. Hoshibata, the Revs David Nieda, Alann Hamada, Ken Miyake, Shalom Agtarap, and Dione Corsilles. We also welcomed honored guest, Bishop Cedrick Bridgeforth of The Greater Northwest Conference. 

Bishops Cedrick Bridgeforth and Robert Hoshibata offer Communion.

Rev. Cruz Santos serves communion during Anniversary Sunday.

Rev. Dione Corsilles and Rev. Dr. Mark Hearn present Special Music, “Goodness of God”.

Rev. Shalom Agtarap offers an opening prayer during Anniversary Sunday.

Rev. David Nieda and Bishop Hoshibata serve communion.

The Rev. Alann Hamada presents the Offering Invitation.

Bishop Hoshibata greets the congregation.

The Revs. Jeney Park-Hearn, Cruz Edwin Santos, David Nieda, Alann Hamada, Mark Hearn, Dione Corsilles with Bishops Cedrick Bridgeforth, Robert Hoshibata, the Revs. Karen Yokota Love, Ken Miyake, and Shalom Agtarap gather after Blaine Memorial’s Anniversary Worship Service.

Past and present clergy with Blaine Memorial UMC’s honored congregants age 88+.

Following our Anniversary Worship Service, we enjoyed a grand Church Potluck provided by our congregation. We recognized our church members age 88+ and enjoyed musical performances from the Blaine Ukulele Group of Seattle (B.U.G.S.), the Blaine Memorial UMC Choir, and individual performances from our members.

The Blaine UMC Choir performs “Oh Happy Day” during Blaine’s Anniversary Potluck.

The Blaine Ukulele Group of Seattle (B.U.G.S.) performs their favorite tunes during Potluck.

Church members dance to the Hukilau while B.U.G.S. performs.

Anita Kuriowa-Schiff performs a liturgical dance.

The Campfire Girls reunite with Greta Hoshibata (center).

During Anniversary Sunday, our youth gave roses in honor of our congregants age 88 and older.

What will the next chapter of Blaine Memorial UMC look like? What new and exciting ministries are in store for the community? How do we celebrate our 121 years of faith well into the future? Be sure to join us as we embark on a faith journey that is, as Bishop Hoshibata statued, “Rooted and Grounded…In Love!”

Jesse N. Love is a member of Blaine Memorial UMC

Announcements

Prayer and Coffee • Wednesday, March 5, 2025 

Join Rev. Karen for prayer and community on Wednesday (3/5) at 9:00AM on Zoom. Our time together consists of brief check-ins, devotionals, and prayers. This is a great way to begin Lent, clear and center your mind, all while connecting with God and your prayer community. We will discuss the meaning of Lent and the significance of Ash Wednesday. Feel free to bring a cup of coffee, tea, and a bite to eat. Hope to see you on Wednesday.

Ash Wednesday Service •  Wednesday, March 5, 7pm

Next Wednesday, March 5, is Ash Wednesday, the beginning of the penitential season of Lent. Ashes will be distributed at 12:00PM and at 7:00PM during an Ash Wednesday service in the Sanctuary. As we begin another Lenten journey, we are invited to reflect on Jesus’ temptations in the wilderness. Lent is a season of remembering our true selves through reflection, reconciliation, and reconnection on the journey toward the cross and the empty tomb.

Meeting Jesus at the Table: A Lenten Study • See Dates and Times (Below)

This year’s all church Lenten Study book is Meeting Jesus at the Table: A Lenten Study. The book is written by Cynthia M. Campbell and Christine Coy Fohr. For Lent this year, our theme will be Bread of Life: Meeting Jesus at the Table. The Gospels are full of stories of Jesus sharing meals with people. Whether multiplying bread to feed a whole crowd, relaxing with his inner circle, or telling curious elites stories about even greater banquets, Jesus imparts wisdom and forgiveness during meal times. This eight-session study provides biblical insights along with thought-provoking queries regarding our own time, such as whom should we invite to Sunday dinner and who is left out and left behind in our culture today. Each chapter includes questions for small group discussion or personal reflection.

Books are on sale in the Church Office for $10.00 each.

Rev. Karen will lead a 7-week Lent Book Study using Meeting Jesus at the Table: A Lenten Study. She will teach the class on the following days:

  • Thursday (3/6), 7:00PM
  • Tuesday (3/11), 7:00PM
  • Tuesday (3/18), 7:00PM
  • Tuesday (4/1), 7:00PM
  • Tuesday (4/8), 7:00PM
  • Tuesday (4/15), 7:00PM


The classes will be held on Zoom and the link will be released the day before. Please note that some classes are on Tuesdays and Thursdays due to scheduling conflicts with other events taking place at the church. Thank you in advance for your flexibility.

Artwork copyright Erin Shigaki. Photo courtesy of Washington State Arts Commission, by Barry Johnson, 2024.

Kimball Elementary School Cloud Pavilion Art Dedication • Thursday, March 13, 5:30pm

Kimball Elementary School Principal Angela Bogan has invited the Blaine Memorial congregation to Artist Erin Shigaki’s Cloud Pavilion Art Installation in the Kimball Elementary School Library on March 13, from 5:30PM-6:30PM. The Cloud Pavilion (kumo no akusha) by Erin Shigaki conveys the histories, hopes, and relationships of both Kimball Elementary students and Beacon Hill residents. Please RSVP to Yuki Sofronas by Wednesday, March 12 at 4:00PM so we can get a head count. The church is arranging rides to the school entrance. For those who feel comfortable walking to the school, we will walk together in a group.

About Erin Shigaki

Erin Shigaki’s art practice focuses on the experiences of communities of color, often the World War II (1939-45) incarceration of her Japanese-American community. She is passionate about highlighting similarities between that history, the detention and family separation immigrants face today, and other systemic violence and injustices that people of color continue to face. She believes that using art to tell stories about these moments can educate, redress wrongs, and heal. Erin Shigaki was born and raised in Seattle, Washington. She is a graphic designer and illustrator by trade. She is also a community activist. She helps run an annual pilgrimage to Minidoka, the American WWII concentration camp where her family was incarcerated, and she is also a part of Tsuru for Solidarity, working to end detention and incarceration for all. She holds a Bachelor of Arts degree from Yale University.

Blaine Girl Scout Troop #43880 Cookie Booth • March 16, 2025 after Sunday Service (Social Hall)

Please come out to get your favorite cookies and support our Girl Scout Troop this year as they raise money for their annual camping trip! Thank you for your support!

Learn more about our next Guatemala Mission Trip during our Info Meeting in March.

Guatemala Mission Trip Informational Meeting • March 16, 2025

Are you interested in going on a mission trip this coming August 8 to August 16?  Do you have a desire to serve others in an underdeveloped country?  Are you not sure about going, but want to learn more? Blaine will again partner with Mission Guatemala and send a mission team to San Andrés Semetebaj, Guatemala.  Please join us for a short informational meeting Sunday, March 16, in the Webb Room at 12:00.  If you have any questions, please contact Bob or Donna Sekijima at or Alice Ikeda.

Read more about Blaine Memorial’s 2024 Guatemala Mission trip.

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.

An All-Church Retreat to Refresh, Renew, and Rejoice! • August 22-24, 2025

We are bringing back the All-Church Camp Retreat! This year’s theme is Refresh, Renew and Rejoice! Please save the dates: August 22-24, 2025! Our campsite location will be in Olympia, WA. Please contact Harry Tang with questions. More information to be revealed…

The Beacon Newsletter is Now Available!

Click the image above to view our latest issue or view past issues here.

View the March 2025 Calendar

Learn More
Blaine Memorial UMC’s 120th and 121st Anniversary Sunday Comments Off on Blaine Memorial UMC’s 120th and 121st Anniversary Sunday

Blaine Memorial UMC’s 120th and 121st Anniversary Sunday

Posted by on Jan 26, 2025 in Archives, Blaine Youth Group, Church News & Events, Congregational Care, Episcopal News, Giving, Prayer, Sermons, Service Opportunities, Small Groups, Spiritual Formation, Sunday Worship, Videos

Reflecting on 120 (and 121) Years of Grace!

  • Blaine Memorial UMC’s 120th and 121st Anniversary Sunday
  • January 26, 2025 • 10:00am
  • Hybrid Worship
  • View the PDF

Order of Worship

Prelude
Holy, Holy, Holy
By John B. Dykes
Kathy Onishi
Welcome of Grace and Greeting
Rev. Karen Yokota Love
Call to Worship
Rev. David Nieda
Opening Hymn
You Are the Vine
Words and Music by Danny Daniels and Randy Rigbey
Blaine Praise Band
Opening Prayer
Rev. Shalom Agtarap
Special Music
Goodness of God
Written by Ed Cash, Ben Fielding, Jason Ingram, Brian Johnson and Jenn Johnson
Rev. Dr. Mark C. Hearn,
Rev. Dione Corsilles
First Scripture Reading
1 Corinthians 12:12-31 (JLB, CEB) 
Tsutomu Nagoya, Gail Nomura, Aidan Lew, Kaylee Yokoyama, 
Shigeru Nishida
Children’s Message
Sai Hanaoka
Church School Superintendent
Special Music
Be Thou My Vision
Arr. by Alice Parker
Blaine Memorial UMC Choir
Second Scripture Reading 
Ephesians 3:16-19 (JLB, NRSV) 
Tsutomu Nagoya, Lynne Onishi
Sermon
Rooted and Grounded…In Love!
Bishop Robert T. Hoshibata
Hymn of Reflection
What Gift Can We Bring
(UMH #87)
Eugene and Kathy Onishi
Special Music
Amazing Grace
By John Newton
(English and Japanese)
Blaine Ukulele Group of Seattle
Video Presentation
The Archives Committee
The Great Thanksgiving
Bishop Robert T. Hoshibata,
Bishop Cedrick D. Bridgeforth,
Rev. Cruz Edwin Santos,
Rev. Karen Yokota Love
Holy Communion Music
At This Table
By Idina Menzel
Marina Kozu 
Introduction to the Offering
Rev. Alann Hamada
Doxology
Praise God,
from Whom All Blessings Flow
Kathy Onishi
Prayer of Dedication
Rev. Alann Hamada
Announcements
Rev. Karen Yokota Love
Closing Hymn
Forever
Words by Chris Tomlin
Blaine Praise Band
Benediction
Rev. Karen Yokota Love
Postlude
One God and Father of Us All
Words and Music by
Pete Carlson and Kyle Matthews,
Arr. by Jerry Carraway
Kathy Onishi

Announcements

Congregational Photo • Immediately after worship in the Sanctuary


Immediately after worship, we’ll gather to take a congregational photo in the Sanctuary. This photo will include all of our dignitaries. Since we will be taking a group photo, we are canceling the Zoom Break Out Room. It will provide the opportunity for our facilitators to participate in the congregational photo. We’ll resume the Zoom Break Out Room on Sunday, February 2, 2025. 

Blaine Memorial’s 120th Anniversary Sunday Celebration and Potluck Information


Blaine Memorial UMC will have a 120th anniversary Sunday service with special guests and dignitaries from our past to celebrate and reflect on its 120-year history and look forward to its further growth and development into the next 120 years of service in love.  After the service there will be a potluck gathering and program with exhibits, entertainment, reunions with friends and family, and an honoring of church members who are 88+ years old by the end of January.  Please join us for the culminating celebration of our 120th anniversary and start of our 121st year!  We look forward to celebrating with all our members new and old and our many community friends to remember and renew our connections into the future. Please bring a potluck dish to share. All are welcome.

For the potluck we are asking folks to contribute some dishes to share with others.  (If you are single, please feel free to bring just one of the items.  If you are 88+ years old, you do not need to bring a dish.  This celebration is for you!).  

We hope you can join us for this special culmination celebration of our church’s 120th Anniversary.

NJAUMC Book Study During Epiphanytide

There’s a new book study sponsored by the National Japanese American United Methodist Caucus that will begin next Tuesday (1/21). Rev. Brian Lee (Simpson UMC in Arvada, CO) and Rev. John Miyahara (UMC Navy Chaplain in San Diego, CA) will facilitate “Secret Harvests: A Hidden Story of Separation and the Resilience of a Family Farm” by David Mas Masumoto. We will gather virtually on Tuesday evenings from 6:30 PM – 8:00 PM. (PST). Below is our reading schedule:

Tuesday (1/28)
Parts 3 and 4
Tuesday (2/11)
Parts 5 and 6
Tuesday (2/25)
Parts 7 and 8

Click here to join the Zoom link.

Books are on sale in the Church Office for $15.00 or you are free to purchase online at Amazon.com.

At the 2023 Day of Remembrance, a “Never Again is Now” banner adorned by colorful tsuru (origami cranes) reminds event attendees that the history of Executive Order 9066 and Japanese American incarceration still matter today.

Day of Remembrance Film Screening at Blaine Memorial UMC • February 19, 2025


Blaine Memorial UMC is partnering with the Seattle JACL and Puyallup Valley JACL to show the film, Removed by Force: The Eviction of Hawai?i’s Japanese Americans During World II at 6:00PM in the Sanctuary. The film sheds light on the relatively unknown experiences of the 1,500 Americans of Japanese ancestry from 23 geographic areas in Hawai‘i who were evicted, but not interned, during World War II. 

Annual Sukiyaki Dinner • March 1, 2025

Blaine Memorial’s Sukiyaki Benefit Fundraiser is for SATURDAY, MARCH 1, 2025 from 1:00PM-6:00PM! Sukiyaki will be $20.00 each. We will have cooked and uncooked Sukiyaki. We will provide take out and have limited dine in. More information will be announced soon – stay tuned! 

Afghanistan and Ukrainian Refugee Donation Ministry at Riverton Park UMC!


Items being collected: At this time, we have an abundance of some items and so we are NOT in need of clothing or children’s toys. Especially 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.

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.

South King County Response Center Collection Volunteer Hours: The Donation Center is open on 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.

A Season of Stewardship: Blaine Memorial UMC Supports Kimball Elementary (Video)

Beacon newsletter will return in February!

Our bi-monthly newsletter, the Beacon, will return in February! Check out our past issues here.

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Second Sunday after Epiphany Comments Off on Second Sunday after Epiphany

Second Sunday after Epiphany

Posted by on Jan 19, 2025 in Archives, Blaine Youth Group, Church News & Events, Congregational Care, Giving, Miscellaneous, Prayer, Sermons, Service Opportunities, Small Groups, Spiritual Formation, Sunday Worship, Videos, Weekly Calendar

Happy New Year!

  • Second Sunday after Epiphany
  • January 19, 2025 • 10:00am
  • Hybrid Worship
  • View the PDF

Order of Worship

Prelude
Taste and See
By James Moore
Kathy Onishi
Welcome of Grace and Greeting
Rev. Karen Yokota Love
Blaine Memorial UMC Land Acknowledgment
Call to Worship
Brad Miyake
Opening Hymn
Come My Way, My Truth, My Life
(UMH #164)
Kathy Onishi & Eugene Onishi
Opening Prayer
Brad Miyake
Scripture Reading
John 2:1-11 (JLB) 
Yuki Sofronas, Brad Miyake
Children’s Message
Sai Hanaoka
Special Announcement
Rev. Karen Yokota Love
Special Music
Here I Am, Send Me
Blaine Memorial UMC Choir
Sermon
Water to Wine
Rev. Karen Yokota Love
Song of Reflection
Jesus, Joy of Our Desiring
(UMH #644)
Kathy & Eugene Onishi
Introduction to the Offering
Brad Miyake
Offertory Music
Kathy Onishi
Doxology
Praise God, from Whom All Blessings Flow
(UMH #94)
Kathy & Eugene Onishi
Prayer of Dedication
Brad Miyake
Announcements
Rev. Karen Yokota Love
Closing Hymn
Become to Us the Living Bread
(UMH #630)
Kathy & Eugene Onishi
Benediction
Rev. Karen Yokota Love
Postlude
Soon and Very Soon
By Andrae Crouch
Kathy Onishi
Passing of the Peace
Rev. Karen Yokota Love
Zoom Breakout Room
Rev. Dr. Jeney Park-Hearn
Today’s Flowers
Miriam Tong

Sermon Questions

  • How did God speak to you through the scripture/sermon this week? 
  • What details from this story stand out to you? (Where is he, how much wine does he create, what does his mom ask of him, how does the master of the feast respond?) 
  • How does Jesus respond to his mom’s request? What does this show us about his mission?
  • What are some reasons Jesus begins his ministry with turning water into wine?
  • How do the seven signs help bolster our understanding of who Jesus is so that we may have eternal life?
  • Jesus was socially engaged in celebratory events in the lives of others. What does this tell us about how we should engage in the mission of God?

Daily Lectionary Readings

Sunday, January 19, 2025: Second Sunday after the Epiphany
Isaiah 62:1-5; Psalm 36:5-10; 1 Corinthians 12:1-11; John 2:1-11
Monday, January 20, 2025: 
Psalm 145; Isaiah 54:1-8; Romans 12:9-21;
Tuesday, January 21, 2025: 
Psalm 145; Song of Solomon 4:1-8; 1 Corinthians 1:3-17;
Wednesday, January 22, 2025: 
Psalm 145; Song of Solomon 4:9-5:1; Luke 5:33-39;
Thursday, January 23, 2025: 
Psalm 19; Isaiah 61:1-7; Romans 7:1-6;
Friday, January 24, 2025: 
Psalm 19; Nehemiah 2:1-10; Romans 12:1-8;
Saturday, January 25, 2025: 
Psalm 19; Nehemiah 5:1-13; Luke 2:39-52;

Announcements

A Celebration of Life Service for Sumi Yoshioka • Today at 1pm

You’re invited to the public Celebration of Life Service for Sumiko “Sumi” Yoshioka for this Sunday, January 19, 2025 at 1:00 PM. There will be a reception to follow in the Lee Activity Center. A lifelong church member, she faithfully served as organist, pianist, choir and handbell choir director. She was known for her kindness, grace, and was an island girl at heart. Sumi’s Celebration of Life service will be live-streamed.

1967 Easter —Congregation

120th/121st Anniversary Sunday Service and Potluck • Sunday, January 26, 2025

(See more photos)

On January 26, 2025, Blaine Memorial UMC will have a 120th anniversary Sunday service with special guests from our past to celebrate and reflect on its 120-year history and look forward to its further growth and development into the next 120 years of service in love. After the service there will be a potluck gathering and program with exhibits, entertainment, reunions with friends and family, and an honoring of church members who are 88+ years old by the end of January. Please join us for the culminating celebration of our 120th anniversary and start of our 121st year! We look forward to celebrating with all our members new and old and our many community friends to remember and renew our connections into the future. Please bring a potluck dish to share. All are welcome.

For the potluck we are asking folks to contribute some dishes to share with others. (If you are single, please feel free to bring just one of the items. If you are 88+ years old, you do not need to bring a dish. This celebration is for you!). Potluck assignment recommendations are listed below by last name:

A-H:
Main dish/Salad
I-S:
Main dish/Rice
T-Z:
Main dish/ Dessert

NJAUMC Book Study During Epiphanytide

There’s a new book study sponsored by the National Japanese American United Methodist Caucus that will begin next Tuesday (1/21). Rev. Brian Lee (Simpson UMC in Arvada, CO) and Rev. John Miyahara (UMC Navy Chaplain in San Diego, CA) will facilitate “Secret Harvests: A Hidden Story of Separation and the Resilience of a Family Farm” by David Mas Masumoto. We will gather virtually on Tuesday evenings from 6:30 PM – 8:00 PM. (PST). Below is our reading schedule:

Tuesday (1/21)
Parts 1 and 2
Tuesday (1/28)
Parts 3 and 4
Tuesday (2/11)
Parts 5 and 6
Tuesday (2/25)
Parts 7 and 8

Click here to join the Zoom link.

Books are on sale in the Church Office for $15.00 or you are free to purchase online at Amazon.com.

Volunteers finish packing baked goods.

Blaine’s Benefit Sukiyaki Nominations • Due Weds. Jan. 22, 2025

Blaine Memorial UMC’s Annual Sukiyaki will be on Saturday, March 1, 2025. Currently, the Sukiyaki Committee is seeking nominations for a beneficiary for the upcoming Sukiyaki event. Please submit a brief description of your recommended beneficiary recipient to the Church Office by Wednesday, January 22, 2025 (for review and approval by Ad Board). Beneficiary Nominations Forms are available in the Church Office.

If you have any questions, please contact Yuki Sofronas at our Church Office.

Prayer and Coffee • Wednesday, January 22, 2025 

Join Rev. Karen for prayer and community on Wednesday (1/22/25) at 9:00AM on Zoom. This is a great way to start your morning, clear and center your mind, all while connecting with God and your prayer community. Hope to see you on Wednesday.

Video: “A Season of Stewardship: Blaine Memorial UMC Supports Kimball Elementary”

With challenges such as food insecurity, a harsh economy, and homelessness, Blaine Memorial UMC has teamed with Kimball Elementary School to provide dinners through Thanksgiving Meals and presents through the Giving Tree.

Several members of the Blaine Memorial UMC Community, including its Blaine Youth Group (BYG), share what makes this lay-led ministry vital to the families in the neighborhood.

Visit our Original Videos page to view this story and more!

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