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
Established in 2016. Award(s) will be made to those pursuing continued education through community colleges and/or technical/trade schools. Other Eligibility Opportunities/Community Based Internships: There is also opportunity for a scholarship to support an internship for a nonprofit or community organization.
Robert and Lucy Sato Scholarship Award(s)
These awards will be made to a college undergraduate and/or graduate student pursuing a degree in Engineering, Mathematics, Nursing, Science, Technology or related fields of study.
Blaine Memorial Scholarship
These award(s) will be made to high school seniors, community college, technical/trade school, and/or college undergraduate or graduate student.
Ted and Margaret Yasuda Scholarship
These award(s) will be made to high school seniors or college undergraduate
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, contact Michelle Vaughan, Scholarship Chair.
Join Rev. Karen 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. We will discuss the significance of Lent. Feel free to bring a cup of coffee, tea, and a bite to eat. Hope to see you on Wednesday.
Meeting Jesus at the Table: A Lenten Study • See Dates and Times (Below)
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:
Tuesday (3/25), 7:00PM, Relationships and Reciprocity, Luke 14:7-14
Tuesday (4/1), 7:00PM, Excuses and Invitation, Luke 14:15-24
Tuesday (4/8), 7:00PM, Hospitality and Discipleship, John 12:1-8
Tuesday (4/15), 7:00PM, A Meal of Memories, Matthew 26:17-30 and Easter, Luke 24:13-35
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.
This year’s All Church Lenten 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 mealtimes.
This book 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.
North Beacon Hill Neighborhood Town Hall Meeting @ Blaine Memorial UMC’s LAC • 3/27, 7:00pm-9:00pm
Seattle Council member District #2 Mark Solomon and Seattle Council member District #8 Alexis Mercedes Rinck will present to lead the Neighborhood Town Hall Meeting. They will address the Public Safety Concerns around the neighborhood (with an emphasis on Blaine and 25th Ave S), the Comprehensive Plan and Updates that impact District #2 and Seattle, and Small Business Support for Local Businesses around the Church and Community. I hope you can make the meeting and bring your concerns and joys!
Support BYG’s Hawaiian Food Fund Raiser! • Sunday, March 30, After Service
The Blaine Youth Group (BYG) is excited to announce our Hawaiian Food Fundraiser!
SAVE THE DATE: Sunday, March 30th after service.
We’ll be serving a delicious homemade Hawaiian lunch including: pulled pork, mac salad, spam musubi, coleslaw, with a vegetarian meal option for $15.
Support our BYG as we begin raising funds for Camping Ministries! We hope to see you there!
Reconciling Ministries Network Devotional, Written by Lynne Onishi
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.
50th Seattle Cherry Blossom and Japanese Cultural Festival at Seattle Center • April 11-13, 2025
The Japanese Community and Cultural Center of Washington are asking for your help. They need refreshments for the Volunteer Hospitality Team who is working at the 50th Seattle Cherry Blossom and Japanese Cultural Festival at the Seattle Center. They are requesting potluck dish donations of mochi, onigiri, spaghetti, different salads, beverages, snacks, hot dogs, etc.
Potluck dishes may lovingly be donated the days of Friday (4/11), Saturday (4/12), and Sunday (4/13) from 11:00AM-5:00PM. Questions? Please email Emiliano Baird or call (206) 372-5156.
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.
Are you a recipe follower or an experimenter? What about your preferred method appeals to you?
When has someone been extraordinarily generous with you?
Are there times when you choose “sacrifice” over “mercy” when it comes to practicing radical hospitality Jesus models for us and to which God calls us?
What groups today tend to be viewed the way “tax collectors and sinners” were in Jesus’ day? Have you ever been shamed for who you eat with or keep company with?
Order of Worship
Prelude Come, Holy Spirit By Mark Foreman Kathy Onishi
Welcome of Grace and Greeting Rev. Karen Yokota Love
Call to Worship George Yates
Opening Hymn Here I am, Lord (UMH #593) Kathy & Eugene Onishi
Opening Prayer George Yates
Children’s Message Masato Takahashi
Special Music Without His Cross By Joseph M. Martin Blaine Memorial UMC Choir
First Scripture Reading Matthew 9:9-13 (JLB, NRSVUE) Tsutomu Nagoya, George Yates
Second Scripture Reading Luke 13:18-21 (JLB, NRSVUE) Tsutomu Nagoya, George Yates
Sermon Mercy, Not Sacrifice Rev. Karen Yokota Love
Song of Meditation Lord, Whose Love Through Humble Service (UMH #581) Kathy & Eugene Onishi
Introduction to the Offering George Yates
Offertory Music Kathy Onishi
Doxology Praise God, from Whom All Blessings Flow (UMH #94) Kathy & Eugene Onishi
Prayer of Dedication George Yates
Announcements Rev. Karen Yokota Love
Closing Hymn Sent Forth By God’s Blessing (UMH #664) Kathy & Eugene Onishi
Benediction Rev. Karen Yokota Love
Postlude O Lord, You’re Beautiful By Keith Green Kathy Onishi
Blaine Girl Scout Troop #43880 Cookie Booth • Today 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!
Adventurefuls
Do-Si-Dos
Girl Scouts S’mores (retiring)
Lemon-ups
Samoas
Tagalongs
Thin Mints
Toffee-tastic (GF)
Trefoils
Learn more about our next Guatemala Mission Trip during our Info Meeting in March.
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.
Meeting Jesus at the Table: A Lenten Study • See Dates and Times (Below)
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:
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.
This year’s All Church Lenten 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 mealtimes.
This book 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.
Prayer and Coffee • Wednesdays at 9am
Join Rev. Karen for prayer and community on Wednesday (3/19) 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 significance of Lent. Feel free to bring a cup of coffee, tea, and a bite to eat. Hope to see you on Wednesday.
Support BYG’s Hawaiian Food Fund Raiser! • Sunday, March 30, After Service
The Blaine Youth Group (BYG) is excited to announce our Hawaiian Food Fundraiser!
SAVE THE DATE: Sunday, March 30th after service.
We’ll be serving a delicious homemade Hawaiian lunch including: pulled pork, mac salad, spam musubi, coleslaw, with a vegetarian meal option for $15.
Support our BYG as we begin raising funds for Camping Ministries! We hope to see you there!
Reconciling Ministries Network Devotional, Written by Lynne Onishi
50th Seattle Cherry Blossom and Japanese Cultural Festival at Seattle Center • April 11-13, 2025
The Japanese Community and Cultural Center of Washington are asking for your help. They need refreshments for the Volunteer Hospitality Team who is working at the 50th Seattle Cherry Blossom and Japanese Cultural Festival at the Seattle Center. They are requesting potluck dish donations of mochi, onigiri, spaghetti, different salads, beverages, snacks, hot dogs, etc.
Potluck dishes may lovingly be donated the days of Friday (4/11), Saturday (4/12), and Sunday (4/13) from 11:00AM-5:00PM. Questions? Please email Emiliano Baird or call (206) 372-5156.
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.
Jesus’ promises, “I am the bread of life.” What questions or hopes come to mind?
Who cheers for you and whom do you cheer?
What is something “bigger than you” that you are part of?
Tell the story of a table gathering that fed you in more ways than one.
How would you host a dinner where people left feeling full, known, and beloved? Who would you invite? What food would you serve? What questions would you ask? What stories would you share? Can you make it happen?
Order of Worship
Prelude Time Now to Gather Kathy Onishi By John D. Horman
Welcome of Grace and Greeting Rev. Karen Yokota Love
Blaine Memorial UMC Land Acknowledgment
Call to Worship Stephen Sumida
Opening Hymn Lord, Who Throughout These Forty Days (UMH #269) Kathy & Eugene Onishi
Opening Prayer Stephen Sumida
First Scripture Reading Luke 4:1-13 Tsutomu Nagoya, Stephen Sumida
Children’s Message Sai Hanaoka
Special Music A Willing Heart By Tom Fettke Blaine Memorial UMC Choir
Prayers of the People Rev. Karen Yokota Love
Second Scripture Reading John 6:25-40 Tsutomu Nagoya, Stephen Sumida
Sermon Bread of Life Rev. Karen Yokota Love
Song of Meditation You Satisfy the Hungry Heart (UMH #629, v. 1, 2, 4 and 5) Kathy & Eugene Onishi
Introduction to the Offering Stephen Sumida
Offertory Music Kathy Onishi
Doxology Praise God, from Whom All Blessings Flow (UMH #94) Kathy & Eugene Onishi
Prayer of Dedication Stephen Sumida
Announcements Rev. Karen Yokota Love
Closing Hymn I Come With Joy (UMH #617) Kathy & Eugene Onishi
Benediction Rev. Karen Yokota Love
Postlude Change My Heart, O God By Eddie Espinosa Kathy Onishi
Join Rev. Karen for prayer and community on Wednesday (3/12) 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 significance of Lent. Feel free to bring a cup of coffee, tea, and a bite to eat. Hope to see you on Wednesday.
Meeting Jesus at the Table: A Lenten Study • See Dates and Times (Below)
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:
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.
This year’s All Church Lenten 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 mealtimes.
This book 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.
Reconciling Ministries Network Devotional, Written by Lynne Onishi
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!
Adventurefuls
Do-Si-Dos
Girl Scouts S’mores (retiring)
Lemon-ups
Samoas
Tagalongs
Thin Mints
Toffee-tastic (GF)
Trefoils
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.
50th Seattle Cherry Blossom and Japanese Cultural Festival at Seattle Center • April 11-13, 2025
The Japanese Community and Cultural Center of Washington are asking for your help. They need refreshments for the Volunteer Hospitality Team who is working at the 50th Seattle Cherry Blossom and Japanese Cultural Festival at the Seattle Center. They are requesting potluck dish donations of mochi, onigiri, spaghetti, different salads, beverages, snacks, hot dogs, etc.
Potluck dishes may lovingly be donated the days of Friday (4/11), Saturday (4/12), and Sunday (4/13) from 11:00AM-5:00PM. Questions? Please email Emiliano Baird or call (206) 372-5156.
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.
Ally Sofronas and Katelyn N. whip up mashed potatoes for Thanksgiving Meals.
BYG Update
The Journey Continues
By Kaylee Yokoyama, photos by Kai Yamamoto
As we continue into 2025, it’s an opportunity to reflect on the memories, growth, and experiences Blaine Youth Group has engaged in over the past year. The last twelve months were filled with community, service, faith, and fellowship.
We first began the year off with a BYG Night. We prepared for Camping Ministries Sunday through singing worship songs as the youth spent time reflecting on their camping ministries experiences. We were also gracious to have Nathan Buck from Faith UMC who led the youth in worship songs.
Our BYG serve up delicious Suno Dogs and Italian Sodas.
As we entered autumn, we held our long-awaited Youth Booth at Bazaar. The youth enjoyed selling and making Suno Dogs and we had the return of our popular Italian Sodas! It was amazing to witness the youth work together to serve the congregation — and for the younger youth, to experience the youth booth for the very first time!
In November, BYG also participated in our annual Thanksgiving Service Project where we were able to serve a delicious meal of chicken, salad, mashed potatoes, and apple crisps made by the youth for about 20 families at Kimball Elementary School. BYG also partook in a Thanksgiving Meal Service Project video by Jesse Love which captured the youth’s impact on the community through their stewardship.
BYG serve up Chicken Curry raising funds for camping.
Finally, to end the 2024 year, the youth participated in the Christmas program along with the church school children. To start off the 2025 New Year, we also had our Curry Bento Fundraiser where the youth worked diligently to prepare and served curry, salad, rice, and oatmeal cookies to raise proceeds for Camping Ministries.
I am deeply grateful for the support of our congregation, leaders, Rev. Karen, and the BYG families. Your support, time, and care have made 2024 a year filled exciting and meaningful experiences for BYG. We couldn’t have done it without you.
Kobe and Emma help prepare ingredients for curry.
Looking ahead to 2025, we are excited for continuing growth and connections with our community. We can’t wait to see what the new year holds as we journey toward faith, service, and fellowship.
Kaylee Yokoyama serves as the Associate Director of the Blaine Youth Group.
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.
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.
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.
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…
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