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Innovation Hub Update Comments Off on Innovation Hub Update

Innovation Hub Update

Posted by on Mar 11, 2024 in Archives, Blaine Youth Group, Church News & Events, Congregational Care, Giving, Innovation Hub, Lenten Season, Prayer, Service Opportunities, Small Groups, Spiritual Formation, Weekly Calendar

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.

(Above) 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.

Reflections on historical community ties

By Lynne Onishi

Recently, I reconnected with a friend from high school. We hadn’t seen each other in nearly 10 years, and I was fascinated to hear about all the life he had lived since. My friend explained how he had studied history in college out of a deep curiosity about the past but ended up uncovering so many stories that the world needs to hear today. I haven’t stopped thinking about this. In the last couple of years, I’ve been doing more history-focused reading, hoping to uncover some kind of truth that will help me make sense of my life now. I think a similar phenomenon also connects people of faith to our sacred texts and traditions. We return to the rituals and readings from so long ago, knowing that God is somehow still speaking through these ancient stories.


This is a time of year when so many of us look back into our history and let those stories inform our lives today. In February, we celebrate Black History Month and lift up the Black stories and individuals who have shaped our present and continue to pave the way for our future. In 2024, we celebrate African Americans and the arts. On February 19th we observed the Day of Remembrance, the anniversary of President Roosevelt’s signing of Executive Order 9066. In the Japanese American community, we honor our ancestors, tell their stories, educate the public, speak up so that this never happens to marginalized people today.


And at Blaine Memorial UMC, we’re spending the whole year celebrating 120 years of ministry! Now, I’ve only been around for a small portion of this history. But as I hear more stories from our past, I have started to piece together a larger tapestry of the ways this community has touched the lives of many. And I’m finding new ways that my personal and family stories intertwine with the story of Blaine Memorial UMC. Perhaps this is true for you, too. Our community’s history tells us not only how we became who we are today, but we can also let our past inform who we will become.


The IH and RM teams are always looking for new folks to join us. If you feel called to lend your voice to these important ministries, we invite you to join us at our next team zoom meeting. Please contact Lynne or any of the other team members for more information.


Questions? Send an email.

Lynne Onishi is the director of the Blaine Youth Group and serves on the Reconciling Ministries Team.

Announcements

Order Easter Lillies Today!

Download the PDF form and print at home. Forms are needed by Sunday, March 24.

Read the latest issue of the Beacon!

Our February-March issue of the Beacon newsletter is ready for view. The March 2024 issue will be available very soon 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!

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. Just us in this Zoom study on Tuesdays at 7:00PM, which is being 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 the remainig Tuesdays: 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 continues until March 25!

Join Rev. John Miyahara (UMC/US Navy Chaplain), Rev. Brian Lee (Simpson UMC), and members of the Japanese American United Methodist Caucus congregations in a 6-week Lenten book study. We are 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! Join us tomorrow, Monday, March 11 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.

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.

Stay connected with Blaine Memorial on Facebook!

February-March 2024 Calendar

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Fourth Sunday of Epiphany, 120th Anniversary Sunday Comments Off on Fourth Sunday of Epiphany, 120th Anniversary Sunday

Fourth Sunday of Epiphany, 120th Anniversary Sunday

Posted by on Jan 27, 2024 in Archives, Blaine Youth Group, Church News & Events, Congregational Care, Giving, Innovation Hub, Pastors' Columns, Prayer, Service Opportunities, Small Groups, Spiritual Formation, Sunday Worship, Weekly Calendar

All are Welcome!

  • Fourth Sunday of Epiphany, 120th Anniversary Sunday
  • January 28, 2024 • 10:00am
  • Hybrid Worship
  • Thank you to Sharon Maeda for providing today’s altar flowers!
  • Continue scrolling of view the print version of the bulletin.

Order of Worship

Prelude 
How Majestic Is Your Name
By Michael W. Smith
Kathy Onishi
Welcome of Grace and Greeting 
Rev. Karen Yokota Love 
Call to Worship 
Rev. Karen Yokota Love
Opening Hymn
Holy, Holy. Holy (UMH #64) 
Eugene Onishi and Kathy Onishi
Opening Prayer 
Rev. Mia MiKyung Park
Scripture Reading 
Romans 5:2-5 (NRSVUE, JLB)
Tsutomu Nagoya and Gail Nomura
Children’s Message
Rev. Mia MiKyung Park
Special Music 
For Everyone Born
By Shirley Erena Murray, Brian Mann, Tom Trenney
Blaine Memorial UMC Choir 
Sermon 
Go Forth in Faith 
Rev. Karen Yokota Love
Video Presentation 
Go Forth in Faith: Remembering the First 120 Years of Blaine Memorial UMC
Gail Nomura and Dale Kaneko
Celebrating our 88+ Church Members 
Revs. Karen, Mia with Rev. Dr. Jeney
Remembering Our 88+ Saints
Introduction to the Offering 
Rev. Mia MiKyung Park
Doxology 
Praise God, from Whom All Blessings 
Kathy Onishi
Prayer of Dedication 
Rev. Mia MiKyung Park
Announcements 
Rev. Karen Yokota Love
Closing Hymn 
We Are the Church
(UMH #558) 
Kathy Onishi
Benediction 
Rev. Karen Yokota Love
Postlude 
Great Is The Lord 
By Michael W. Smith
and Deborah D. Smith 
Kathy Onishi
Passing of the Peace 
Rev. Karen Yokota Love
Zoom Breakout Room 
Rev. Dr. Jeney Park-Hearn

Daily Lectionary Readings

Sunday, January 28
Fourth Sunday after the Epiphany
Deuteronomy 18:15-20; Psalm 111; 1 Corinthians 8:1-13: Mark 1:21-28
Monday, January 29
Psalm 35:1-10; Numbers 22: 1-21; Acts 21:17-26
Tuesday, January 30
Psalm 35:1-10; Numbers 22:22-28; 1 Corinthians 7:32-40
Wednesday, January 31
Psalm 35:1-10
Jeremiah 29: 1-14; 
Mark 5:1-20
Thursday, February 1
Psalm 147: 1-11, 20c; 
Proverbs 12:10-21; Galatians 5:2-15
Friday, February 2
Presentation of the Lord
Malachi 3:1-4; Psalm 84 or Psalm 24:7-10; Hebrews 2:14-18;  Luke 2:22-40; Psalm 147: 1-11, 20c; Job 36:1-23; 1 Corinthians 9:1-16
Saturday February 3
Psalm 147: 1-11, 20c; Isaiah 46:1-13; Matthew 12: 9-14

Announcements

Wednesday Meditation & Prayer • January 31 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!

RM Book Study Kickoff – Sunday, February 4

This Spring, the Reconciling Team invites you to participate in a new Book Study Group! We’ll read and discuss Outside the Lines by author and Pastor Mihee Kim-Kort. Learn more at our kickoff meeting on Sunday, February 4 after worship service. If you would like to participate in the study but cannot make it to the kickoff meeting, please let us know. Contact Lynne Onishi with questions: lynneonishi@gmail.com

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.

The Beacon is now available!

View the Jan-Feb 2024 Calendar

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Senior Pastor News Comments Off on Senior Pastor News

Senior Pastor News

Posted by on Dec 1, 2023 in Archives, Blaine Youth Group, Church News & Events, Congregational Care, Innovation Hub, Pastors' Columns, Prayer, Sermons, Service Opportunities, Small Groups, Spiritual Formation

Lynne Onishi, Arlene Naganawa, Dale Watanabe, and the Rev. Karen Yokota Love celebrate Blaine Memorial’s entrance into the Reconciling Ministries Network.

A time of waiting, expecting, hoping

By the Rev. Karen Yokota Love

I grew up and lived in the San Francisco Bay Area for 30 years of my life. If you’ve ever visited San Francisco, you’ve probably looked across the Bay and have spotted that famous prison, Alcatraz, sitting on a big rock in the middle of the water. 

As a San Francisco Bay Area native, I would never visit Alcatraz on my own. It was one of those places that you’d visit if you had a guest visiting from out of town. One night, we decided to venture out on the “Alcatraz Night Tour.” That night, I remember the guide talking and naming a liturgy of facts as tourists past barred windows, and slowly walked down a concrete hallway to a cell used for solitary confinement. After our group entered the cell, we stood shoulder to shoulder. The guide closed the door to the cell and suddenly, POOF … all the light vanished. It was pitch black.

What seemed like minutes in the dark was just a few seconds. Everyone waited expectantly, quietly, and was surprised by the absence of light. 

When the door finally opened, the light poured in, and people smiled. For the first time on the tour, people looked at each other. Nervous laughter masked the relief to be back in the light. It’s amazing how solitary that confinement can be, even with other people standing right next to you. The light makes all the difference in the world. 

The Rev. Karen welcomes attendees to Blaine Memorial UMC.

Advent is here, and we begin the Christian year anew with a season of waiting. As the days grow darker, we draw closer to the arrival of the Light that turns the world upside down—or right-side up! The journey toward and beyond the manger is one of reversing expectations, encountering what we thought we already knew in brand new ways, and receiving good news in unexpected places. So, with one foot in the prophets and another in the Gospels, we journey together as our spirit waits to welcome the Christ child and carry hope, peace, joy and love as we live as disciples who anticipate the now-and-not-yet kin-dom of God.

Candles on the second Sunday of Advent.

If you want to see what Jesus means in your life, just imagine a time without him. Have you ever had that time in your life? A time before Jesus existed for you? A time before you knew about the light of the world? Was it as dark as an Alcatraz-style of solitary confinement, even though there were other people around? 

Imagine a time before Jesus was born. Where was the hope for the world? Where was the joy? Where was the focus on love and forgiveness? There really was a time before Jesus, a time when the world was waiting, expecting, and hoping. 

I’ll tell you something special. During this Advent season, while I continue to watch and wait for Jesus’s love, I am continuing to celebrate the recent unanimous vote that Blaine Memorial United Methodist Church took early in November to proclaim that we are now a Reconciling Ministries church. I’m so thrilled about this proclamation, that it brings great hope for me (see page 8).

I also saw great light this past weekend when we participated in the Greening the Church for Advent. With the beautiful wreaths and swag around the campus, the sparkly snowflakes in our sanctuary windows and the blue tulle hanging in our sanctuary, I’m feeling more prepared for Advent.

During this season of Advent, we wait and expect and hope for the coming of Jesus, while much of the world around us remains in the dark. Let’s walk in that darkness together. Let’s discover a new beginning and a new relationship with the Divine as we prepare for Jesus’s birth. Here are ways in which you can spend your Advent with us at Blaine Memorial UMC. You are invited to join us in any and in all these spaces:

Our children performed during their annual Christmas play on December 10.

On Sunday, December 10, at 10am, we celebrated Jesus’ birth as we witnessed our children and youth perform in a special Christmas Play. This video is available at blaineonline.org!

  • On Sunday, December 17, at 10am, we’ll jam to festive Christmas music both with Christmas hymns and secular music on Christmas Music Sunday featuring our talented Blaine Memorial Choir, B.U.G.S., soloists, and special music from our young adults. 
  • On Wednesday, December 20, at 7pm, we will have our Blue Christmas/Longest Night Service that is designed to provide space for prayer, reflection, and remembrance for those who are grieving during this holiday season. 
  • On Sunday, December 24, we will have one worship service at 10am, where we are celebrating the Fourth Sunday of Advent with Christmas music and a 5pm Christmas Eve Lesson and Carols Candlelight Service. 

As Christians, the center of our holiday season is the light of the world, an infant named Jesus, bringing peace. Take a moment and consider: What are the ways you will choose to focus on Jesus this season? How will you grow in your knowledge of him? How will you show those around you the difference he has made to you and to the world? Why not invite others to be part of your Christmas and help them grow as well. May the peace of God and the joy of the season illumine your heart and lead you to the heart of God, who has chosen to become one of us as Emmanuel — God with us. God wants to know our sorrows and brokenness. Happy Advent and Merry Christmas!

 As we wait, we prepare and stay vigilant, continue to be the hope and love in the world! Seek the light in those dark places. 

The Rev. Karen Yokota Love serves as Senior Pastor of Blaine Memorial UMC.

Check out the Beacon!

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Twenty-Second Sunday after Pentecost Comments Off on Twenty-Second Sunday after Pentecost

Twenty-Second Sunday after Pentecost

Posted by on Oct 29, 2023 in Archives, Blaine Youth Group, Church News & Events, Congregational Care, Giving, Innovation Hub, Miscellaneous, Prayer, Sermons, Service Opportunities, Small Groups, Spiritual Formation, Sunday Worship, Weekly Calendar

Welcome!

  • Twenty-Second Sunday after Pentecost
  • October 29, 2023, 10:00am
  • Hybrid Worship
  • Continue scrolling or view the print version of the bulletin
  • Thank you to Miriam Tong for today’s beautiful flower arrangement! 

Order of Worship

Prelude
Make Me a Channel of Your Peace
Kathy Onishi
Welcome of Grace and Greeting
Rev. Karen Yokota Love
*Call to Worship
Rev. Karen Yokota Love
*Opening Song
Open the Eyes of My Heart
(Paul Baloche)
Blaine Memorial Praise Band
Opening Prayer
Rev. Karen Yokota Love
First Scripture Reading
Matthew 22:34-46 (NRSVUE, JLB)
Kai Yamamoto and Tsutomu Nagoya
Children’s Message
Rev. Mia MiKyung Park
Special Music
One Song
(By Pepper Choplin)
Blaine Memorial Choir
Prayers of the People
Rev. Karen Yokota Love
Second Scripture Reading
Luke 10:25-37 (CEB, JLB)
Donna Sekijima and Tsutomu Nagoya
Message
This is Me
M.I.L.E – E: Elimination of Racism
Dale Watanabe
Hymn of Reflection
We Are Called (TFWS #2172)
Eugene and Kathy Onishi
Introduction to the Offering
Rev. Mia MiKyung Park
*Doxology
Praise God, from Whom All Blessings Flow
Eugene and Kathy Onishi
Prayer of Dedication
Rev. Mia MiKyung Park
Announcements
Rev. Karen Yokota Love
*Closing Hymn
You Are Holy
(By Marc Imboden and Tammi Rhoton)
Blaine Memorial Praise Band
*Benediction
Rev. Karen Yokota Love
Postlude
We Are Called
(By David Haas)
Kathy Onishi

Sermon Questions

1. How have you supported someone in your family or community that was on the margins? 

2. How many different identities do you hold? 

3. What more can our church do to support those at the margins? 

Daily Lectionary Readings

Monday, October 30, 2023:
Semi-continuous: Psalm 119:41-48;  Numbers 33:38-39; James 2:8-13
Complementary: Psalm 119:41-48; Deuteronomy 6:1-9, 20-25; James 2:8-13
Tuesday, October 31, 2023:
Semi-continuous: Psalm 119:41-48; Exodus 34:29-35; James 2:14-26
Complementary: Psalm 119:41-48; Deuteronomy 10:10-22; James 2:14-26
Wednesday, November 1, 2023: All Saints Day
Thursday, November 2, 2023:
Semi-continuous: Psalm 107:1-7, 33-37; Joshua 1:1-11; Romans 2:17-29
Complementary: Psalm 43; 1 Samuel 2:27-36; Romans 2:17-29
Friday, November 3, 2023:
Semi-continuous: Psalm 107:1-7, 33-37; Joshua 2:1-14; 2 Peter 2:1-3
Complementary: Psalm 43; Ezekiel 13:1-16; 2 Peter 2:1-3
Saturday, November 4, 2023:
Semi-continuous: Psalm 107:1-7, 33-37; Joshua 2:15-24; Matthew 23:13-28
Complementary: Psalm 43; Malachi 1:6-2:9; Matthew 23:13-28

Announcements

Choir openings are available! Contact Eugene Onishi for more info!

Choir members needed! • Tues. at 7pm, Sun. at 9am, 11:45am

Join us as we bring musical messages to the Blaine family each week. If you sing, or if you would like to learn to sing, please come join! Whether you sing in public or just in the shower or are available “full-time” or “part-time,” all are welcome! Contact Eugene Onishi.

Wednesday Meditation & Prayer • Nov. 1 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 September/October edition. Finally, we end our time together with a pastoral prayer. We hope you can join us!

For more information, contact the church office for details!

All Saints Sunday • Sunday, Nov. 5

On All Saints Day, United Methodists publicly remember and honor our loved ones who have passed away. We will say the names of Blaine Memorial United Methodist Church members who passed away from November 1, 2022 – October 31, 2023 and a bell will be rung to remember them.

Please bring pictures of your loved ones (relatives, friends, animal companions) to honor and celebrate their memory and your time with them. You are welcome to bring photos, artwork, trinkets, tokens, prose, and poetry to place on the altar in remembrance of your dearly departed. Please bring items that you feel comfortable leaving on the altar as we will remember our departed ones at our All Saints Worship Service.

Reconciling Ministries Vote

Important Dates
Oct. 29-Nov. 4
• Return Mail-In Ballots
Nov. 5
• In-Person Voting

“We celebrate God’s gift of diversity and value the wholeness made possible in community equally shared and shepherded by all. We welcome and affirm people of every gender identity, gender expression, and sexual orientation, who are also of every age, race, ethnicity, physical and mental ability, level of education, and family structure, and of every economic, immigration, marital, and social status, and so much more. We acknowledge that we live in a world of profound social, economic, and political inequities. As followers of Jesus, we commit ourselves to the pursuit of justice and pledge to stand in solidarity with all who are marginalized and oppressed.” 

Register and vote in person at church, Nov. 5. 

Mail ballots to the church office or return them in-person between Oct. 29 and Nov. 5 (mail needs to be received by Nov. 4). Ballots will be counted after worship on Sunday, Nov. 5. 

Scan the QR code for the online registration form or sign up in-person on Sundays. Find our form in the office or social hall!

All-Church Conference Meeting • Tuesday, Nov. 14, 7pm

This year’s All-Church Conference will be on Tuesday, November 14 at 7pm. This gathering holds great significance for our faith community as we come together to celebrate our ministries in 2023. Our District Superintendent, Rev. Derek Nakano will preside over the meeting. All are invited to hear about the state of our church and other important updates. More details to come!

Thanksgiving Meal Work Party • Sunday, Nov. 19 & Monday, Nov. 20

BYG is once again partnering with Kimball Elementary School to provide Thanksgiving meals for food-insecure families. We’ll gather on Sunday, November 19, after worship to prepare apple crisps together in the LAC kitchen. Additionally, on Monday evening at 6pm in the LAC kitchen, we’ll make mashed potatoes and bake apple crisps (a light dinner will be provided). We plan to deliver the meals to Kimball Elementary School on Tuesday, the 21st, in the morning. Please contact BYG Directors or Terri Adolfo for more details.

The Beacon is Now Available!

Read the latest issue of The Beacon newsletter, here!

October/November Calendar

Click on calendar to view the PDF.

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Ninth Sunday after Pentecost Comments Off on Ninth Sunday after Pentecost

Ninth Sunday after Pentecost

Posted by on Jul 29, 2023 in Archives, Blaine Youth Group, Church News & Events, Congregational Care, Giving, Innovation Hub, Prayer, Sermons, Service Opportunities, Small Groups, Spiritual Formation, Sunday Worship, Weekly Calendar

Order of Worship

Prelude
Would I Have Answered When You Called
By Ralph Vaughan Williams
Kathy Onishi
Welcome of Grace and Greeting
Rev. Mia MiKyung Park
*Call to Worship
(Based on Psalm 105:1-11)
Rev. Dr. Jeney Park-Hearn
*Opening Hymn
Open the Eyes of My Heart
by Paul Baloche Eugene and Kathy Onishi, Michelle Vaughan, Miriam Tong, and Neal Komedal
Opening Prayer
Rev. Dr. Jeney Park-Hearn
First Scripture Reading
Romans 8:26-39 (NRSVUE, JLB)
Sylvia Wong, Mike Takahashi
Children’s Message
Rev. Mia MiKyung Park
Special Music
Blessed Be Your Name
By Beth Redman, Matt Redman
Eugene and Kathy Onishi, Michelle Vaughan, Miriam Tong, Neal Komedal
Sermon
Life as Christians II
Rev. Mia MiKyung Park
Hymn of Reflection
Amazing Grace, My Chains are Gone
By J. Newton, C. Tomlin and L. Giglio
Eugene and Kathy Onishi, Michelle Vaughan, Miriam Tong, Neal Komedal
Introduction to the Offering
Rev. Dr. Jeney Park-Hearn
*Doxology
Praise God, from Whom All Blessings Flow (UMH #94)
Eugene and Kathy Onishi
Prayer of Dedication
Rev. Dr. Jeney Park-Hearn
Announcements
Rev. Mia MiKyung Park
*Closing Hymn
Forever by Chris Tomlin
Eugene and Kathy Onishi, Michelle Vaughan, Miriam Tong, Neal Komedal
*Benediction
Rev. Mia MiKyung Park
Postlude
It Is Well with My Soul
By Philip P. Bliss and setting by John Carter
Kathy Onishi
Passing of the Peace
Rev. Mia MiKyung Park

Sermon Questions

  • What are the roles of the Holy Spirit in the life of a Christian? 
  • According to Romans 8:28, what assurance do Christians have in their journey of life? 
  • Based on today’s passage, how can Christians find strength and courage to live boldly for and with Christ, no matter the circumstances they encounter? 
  • What practical steps can Christians take to strengthen a deeper relationship with the Holy Spirit and experience the guidance and comfort of the Holy Spirit in our lives? 

Upcoming Lectionary Scriptures

Monday, July 31, 2023:
Semi-continuous: Psalm 65:8-13; Genesis 30:25-36; James 3:13-18
Complementary: Psalm 119:121-128; 1 Kings 3:16-28; James 3:13-18
Tuesday, August 1, 2023:
Semi-continuous: Psalm 65:8-13; Genesis 30:37-43; Ephesians 6:10-18
Complementary: Psalm 119:121-128; 1 Kings 4:29-34; Ephesians 6:10-18
Wednesday, August 2, 2023:
Semi-continuous: Psalm 65:8-13; Genesis 46:2-47:12; Mark 4:30-34
Complementary: Psalm 119:121-128; Proverbs 1:1-7, 20-33; Mark 4:30-34
Thursday, August 3, 2023:
Semi-continuous: Psalm 17:1-7, 15; Isaiah 14:1-2; Philippians 4:10-15
Complementary: Psalm 145:8-9, 14-21; Proverbs 10:1-5; Philippians 4:10-15
Friday, August 4, 2023:
Semi-continuous: Psalm 17:1-7, 15; Isaiah 41:8-10; Romans 9:6-13
Complementary: Psalm 145:8-9, 14-21; Isaiah 51:17-23; Romans 9:6-13
Saturday, August 5, 2023:
Semi-continuous: Psalm 17:1-7, 15; Genesis 31:1-21; Matthew 7:7-11
omplementary: Psalm 145:8-9, 14-21; Isaiah 44:1-5; Matthew 7:7-11

Announcements

“Looking Back” by Fumiko Kimura

Sumi Strokes of Summer Exhibit • Now – August 24

Puget Sound Sumi Artists (PSSA) presents Sumi Strokes of Summer, an exhibit of Sumi Fine Art and a memorial tribute to its founder, Fumiko Kimura (December 1929-March 2023), and a retrospective of 37 years of PSSA art. This event will be held at the Premier Gallery at the Puyallup Activity Center (210 West Pioneer, Puyallup, WA 98371), July 5 – August 24, 9am-4pm, M-F (except holidays). Read more.

RM Q&A Session • Today!

Join the Reconciling Ministries team for a drop-in Q&A session on Sunday, July 30 during fellowship hour! We will meet in the Webb Room (adjacent to the social hall) for some fun treats and conversation about the reconciling ministry process. Please stop by to chat with the team, find resources, enjoy snacks, and join in some fun activities! All are welcome. Contact Lynne Onishi for more info!

Save the Date: Blessing of the Animals • Next Sunday, Aug. 6

Blaine Memorial UMC will have a Blessing of the Animals worship service on Sunday, August 6, 2023, at 10:00AM in the Blaine Courtyard. Everyone is invited to bring pets (or pictures of pets) for the blessing. Dogs should be on leashes and other pets should be in appropriate carriers. Hope to see you there with your furry friend!

Ongoing Donations for Afghan and Ukrainian Refugees

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 are 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 & Saturdays from 10am-2pm, 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. Please contact Donna Sekijima at: donnasek@outlook.com and/or Anne Arakaki-Lock at: aarakakilock@gmail.com.

Read our latest issue of the Beacon!

The July edition of the Beacon features stories from our church in celebration of Summer! Download the PDF!

July 2023 Calendar

Learn More
Senior Pastor News Comments Off on Senior Pastor News

Senior Pastor News

Posted by on Jul 8, 2023 in Archives, Blaine Youth Group, Church News & Events, Innovation Hub, Pastors' Columns, Prayer, Service Opportunities, Small Groups, Spiritual Formation

Together, we rise through faith

By Rev. Karen Yokota Love

It’s summertime. The weather is changing. It’s so much lighter, so much later – what a joy! I gazed outside a few evenings ago, assuming that at such a late hour the sun had retired for the day. To my surprise, the sun was shining with no sign of a sunset. I thought, “no matter how I think this should go, the sun will not set until it’s ready.” Imagine if we were such pillars of light that we allowed nothing to get in the way of our shining. When the sun rises, nothing can stop it, it is so high that nothing can get in its way.

This year, all our pillars of light are once again, rising! Nothing seems to get in the way of shining for the people at Blaine.

Rev. Mia MiKyung Park, Masato Takahashi, Janet Kometani, Tom Kometani and Rev. Karen Yokota Love honor those who fought in combat and served our country.

Blaine Memorial UMC members showed up at Lakeview Cemetery for the 78th Annual Nisei Veterans Committee Memorial Day Service. Together we honored relatives, friends, and remembered those who fought in the 442nd Regimental Combat Team, served in the Military Intelligence Service and remembered all the Japanese American soldiers who fought and died in wars thereafter.

Erika L. Moritsugu, Dale Watanabe, Rev. Karen Yokota Love, and Chaplain Lisa Ishihara each contributed the NVC Ceremony.

White House Deputy Assistant to President Biden and Asian American and Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander Senior Liaison Erika L. Moritsugu was this year’s keynote speaker. Church Member, Dale Watanabe, provided this year’s Christian-based message and tied in the history of his father and relatives who served in World War II. He also talked about the names that are listed on the Honor Roll Wall at the Minidoka National Historical Site in Hunt, Idaho. Minidoka had the highest percentage of incarcerees from the 10 incarceration camps to serve in the military. Dale tied this link to the Nisei War Memorial at Lakeview Cemetery which honors the 56 American soldiers of Japanese origin.

Bishop Cedrick Bridgeforth preaches his Opening Sermon at PNWAC, Tacoma.

At this year’s PNW Annual Conference, Bishop Cedrick D. Bridgeforth announced both Rev. Mia and my appointments to continue to serve as your pastors for the July 2023-June 2024 appointment year. Rev. Jeney and Rev. Mark are also appointed in secondary appointments serving at Blaine. I look forward to what this new year will bring for us and the sparks of light that will be ignited through our ministry together!

Rev. Mia gets ordained by Bishop Cedrick Bridgeforth. Her mother, husband (Rev. John Go), mentor, and Rev. Karen (representing the PNW Board of Ordained Ministry) lay hands during service.

I also want to take the time to congratulate Rev. Mia MiKyung Park on her ordination as a Full Elder in the Oregon-Idaho Conference. This is a huge accomplishment and milestone in her life! Ron Nobuyama, Lawrence Paltep, and I flew to Meridian, Idaho, to witness Rev. Mia’s ordination on June 11. What an exciting moment to witness!

Rev. Karen, George Yates, and Ron Nobuyama sit together at the Closing Plenary at the PNW Annual Conference at Mason UMC in Tacoma. Rev. Karen is the clergy representative while George and Ron are lay delegates for BMUMC.

Susan Lee provides information on this year’s Vacation Bible School, during Sunday Worship.

Jr. High Camp, VBS and Asian Camp are standing pillars of light and reminders that we are in the thick of summer. It’s wonderful to see our Church School kids, youth and young adults meeting new friends, reconnecting with old friends while finding new ways to connect with God. This year’s VBS theme is Food Truck Party: On a Roll with God, and we are praying that everyone who joins this party will know and experience God’s love, presence, and faithfulness.

This Zoom-only event is coming soon. Contact Lynne Onishi for more details!

Our Reconciling Ministries Team continues to shine a light on an intentional discernment process to explore the outreach, affirmation, and intersectional ministry with and for LGBTQIA+ people at Blaine Memorial UMC. We will continue to engage in deep conversations over the summer by discussing what it means to celebrate God’s gift of diversity and value the wholeness made possible in community equally shared and shepherded by all. In our conversations, we continue to discuss what it means and looks like to welcome and affirm people of every gender identity, gender expression, and sexual orientation, who are also of every age, race, ethnicity, physical and mental ability, level of education, and family structure, and of every economic, immigration, marital, and social status, and so much more.

At the end of July, I’ll be facilitating a retreat sponsored by the National Japanese American United Methodist Caucus at Lake Tahoe’s Zephyr Point. There will be 100 attendees and a few from Blaine Memorial are attending. Other attendees are coming from our sister Japanese American churches including Wesley UMC, Sacramento Japanese UMC, and members from other historical Japanese American churches of different denominations.

One of the many festive blooms from July 4th in Federal Way, Wash.

As we celebrated Independence Day, I continued noticing that the chains of slavery are just as present as they have ever been – whether it be the inequity that persists in the world, or something as mundane as our slavery to our work or our own busyness. I would like our community to channel the prophet inside of us. I’d like us to slow down and to take this freedom and privilege that we embody to the world and to every interaction we have with every person we meet.

With so much going on in the world, we, who are brave, must continue to be intentional about spreading God’s love. We must continue to rise and shine. Let’s look even deeper, get even more uncomfortable, and let our little lights come together to create a sun that doesn’t go down because someone thinks it should, but a sun that shines, no matter what time of day it is. It’s great to be in community with you and to do ministry with you. Be well and stay healthy. You are loved and a child of God. Be the hope and continue to help your neighbor! Rise up and shine your light of faith!

The Rev. Karen Yokota Love serves as Senior Pastor of Blaine Memorial UMC.

Read our latest issue of the Beacon!

The July edition of the Beacon features stories from our church in celebration of Summer! Download the PDF!

July 2023 Calendar

Learn More