Church News & Events

Blaine Memorial’s Mighty Rock Comments Off on Blaine Memorial’s Mighty Rock

Blaine Memorial’s Mighty Rock

Posted by on Oct 1, 2024 in Church News & Events, Giving

Blaine Memorial UMC’s new stone welcoming sign was provided by the Maekawa and Tada families.

Blaine Memorial’s Mighty Rock

By Elaine Chin

Earlier this year, a new entrance sign was installed at our Blaine Memorial UMC campus, donated by the Tada and Maekawa families in gratitude to God for the lives and ministries of Shig & Marianne Tada and Bill & Sani Maekawa. We honor, remember and celebrate them and countless other faith filled, dedicated servants in our Blaine congregation over the past 120 years, present and future.

Bill and Sani Maekawa

Marianne and Shig Tada

Let this ‘rock’ signage not only adorn our grounds, but also remind us of Psalms 62:6-8 (NIV).

‘Truly He is my rock and my salvation; He is my fortress, I will not be shaken. My salvation and my honor depend on God; He is my mighty rock, my refuge. Trust in Him at all times, you people; pour out your hearts to Him, for God is our refuge.’

Special thank you to David Yorozu (T. Yorozu Gardening Co.) for partnering with us in the installation and beautiful landscaping.

Elaine Chin is a member of Blaine Memorial UMC.

Announcements

This image has an empty alt attribute; its file name is coffee.png

Prayers and Coffee on Zoom • Wednesdays at 9am

Join Rev. Karen for prayer and community on Wednesdays at 9:00 AM on Zoom. Our time together consists of brief check-ins, devotionals, and prayers. This is a great way to start your morning, 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.

Read about Mission Guatemala in the latest Beacon!


Bazaar 2024 is coming! Mark your calendars for this awesome event! Pre-order your favorite foods by clicking on the image above!

Blaine Memorial Bazaar and Mission Guatemala

A portion of the proceeds will benefit Mission Guatemala. Mission Guatemala helps meet the basic needs and improve the quality of life of underserved Guatemalan people through health, education, and nutrition initiatives and meaningful missionary service. Together, we can make a difference!

Bazaar: Volunteers Needed!

We cannot do this without our trusted volunteers to help out at Bazaar! We need help grilling, cooking, making ohagi, selling baked goods, etc. Please sign up in the Social Hall. 

Please contact Lesley Okura (okura5@aol.com) if you have any questions.

Volunteer Pie-Makers Needed!

We are in GREAT need for many volunteers, at least 30 people for Pie Making, on October 3 at 10:00AM! We will be working in the LAC to make and bake pies for the Bazaar! 

Baked Goods Also Needed!

Do you love to bake? We need baked goods donations for our Bake Goods booth at the Bazaar! We’re seeking donations of baked mochi, manju, brownies and cookies. Please bring them in on Saturday, October 5 before 10:00AM!

Blaine’s special 120th Anniversary Aprons are created from cotton rice bags

Purchase Anniversary Aprons, October 5!

Wow, we are so grateful and excited to see the many rice bags that were generously donated to us recently by Jean Okazaki! Jean’s daughter, Kathleen, read of Blaine’s need for more rice bags and responded! Now our capable and hard working sewers are busy making more of our special 120th Anniversary Aprons.

They will be available for sale at our upcoming Bazaar on October 5th or through the church office. They are $40 and we are happy to accept more; the additional dollars would be considered a donation.

Fall Book Study: “Context: Putting Scripture in Its Place”

You’re invited to join Rev. Dr. John Miyahara (UMC Navy Chaplain), Rev. Brian Lee (Simpson UMC in Arvada, CO), and congregation members of the Japanese American United Methodist Caucus in a 6-week book study. We will be reading Context: Putting Scripture in its Place. Please note that reading the book isn’t required!

Books are available in the Church Office for $17.00. The study will begin on Tuesday, October 1, 2024 from 6:30-8:00 PM. The Zoom link will be sent out closer to the beginning of the book study date. Please contact Rev. Karen will any questions.

The Rev. Karen Yokota Love speaks during a QA session with clergy during Asian Camp 2024.

Asian Camp 50th Anniversary Event (Southern California) • October 12

Calling all Asian Camp campers, counselors, directors, past and present! RSVP for this years AC 50th anniversary event on October 12! RSVPs & ticket purchasing is due by August 20th, 2024.

  • Visit withjoy.com/asiancamp
  • Ticket purchasing will be done through PayPal found at njaumccamps.org/50th OR checks made out to NJAUMC Camping Ministries, sent to our Camping Board Finance Chair Carol Tondo at 2313 Pacific Avenue, Manhattan Beach, CA 90266.

In addition, the Sunday following (10/13), we will be having a joint gathering/service at Centenary UMC at 2PM. Join us in continuing to fellowship together as we celebrate 50 years of camp! Please contact Rev. Karen if you have any questions.

Afghanistan and Ukrainian Refugee Donation Ministry

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 at the Blaine Memorial Social Hall from Tuesday-Friday between 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM. 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 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM, 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 or Anne Arakaki-Lock.

View the October 2024 Calendar

Learn More
Mission Guatemala 2024! Comments Off on Mission Guatemala 2024!

Mission Guatemala 2024!

Posted by on Oct 1, 2024 in Church News & Events, Service Opportunities, Small Groups, Spiritual Formation, Weekly Calendar

Along with kitchen construction and dental care, the Mission Guatemala team held Vacation Bible School for about 30 children in the local Mayan community.

Mission Guatemala brings health, hope, and faith to impoverished community

By Donna Sekijima

From August 16 through August 24, our Blaine mission team (19 from Blaine Memorial and 3 from Mt. Vernon First UMC) traveled to Panajachel, Guatemala in Central America, working with a UMC related organization, Mission Guatemala. They are a faith-based non-profit organization that serves the indigenous Mayan people and currently provides a medical clinic, pharmacy, and on-site lab in the San Andres Semetebaj area. 

Through Mission Guatemala, we learned about Guatemala’s history, the Mayan culture and some of the difficulties Guatemala still face. More than 50% of rural Guatemalan children suffer from chronic malnutrition, which ranks 6th in the world in child malnutrition. The Guatemalan government only provides education up to 6th grade, and the costs of and access to middle school (average $25/month) and high school (average $50/month) are out of reach for most rural indigenous families. Mission Guatemala is trying to combat this by running a scholarship program for middle and high school students, a nutritional support program for chronically malnourished children, and other community health and vocational training programs.

Volunteers from Blaine Memorial UMC help local Guatemalans with rebar.

Our construction project was to help build a second floor kitchen at a middle school in Godinez so they can prepare and serve nutritious snacks and meals to the students. Since we were just the second team working on this project, it was more of a deconstruction! Some of our team jack hammered and pickaxed a layer of defective cement from the rooftop (which will be the kitchen floor), some collected the concrete debris into buckets and sifted sand from it (to be used later), and some created holes in the outside walls and inserted steel floor support beams (to be re-cemented in later). Other team members wire tied rebar together, creating rectangular columns for supporting the walls. Although construction was physically hard work (with lots of water breaks), at the end it was very rewarding to see the progress we made in four working days. 

How did Blaine Memorial’s mission team help Guatemalans? Read more about how Blaine Memorial worked on construction, dental care, and spiritual formation.

Our team dentists worked at the Mission Guatemala medical clinic on the scholarship students who needed dental care. Some of our team helped with instrument sterilization, assisting the dentists, administering fluoride treatments, interpreting in Spanish and giving patients oral hygiene instructions.

The majority of our construction team took two afternoons off to conduct a Vacation Bible School in Chuisajcap. Around 30 children sang, listened to Bible stories, colored pictures, took photos, folded origami, blew bubbles, played Frisbee, played soccer and ran around outside on the sport court that our 2019 Guatemala mission team helped build. Most of all, there were smiles, laughter and fun!

How can we do all the good we can? Donna Sekijima provides a comprehensive report of Blaine Memorial UMC’s contribution to the local Mayan community through Mission Guatemala!

Many of us on our Blaine mission team didn’t know each other well before the trip, but everyone worked together, supported each other, laughed, ate and sweated together and became more than just teammates – we became a family. We had a wonderful experience, knowing in our own small way, that we are loving our neighbor as Jesus taught us, and trying to “do all the good you can.”

We are so thankful for Mission Guatemala’s great care of our team with amazing staff, comfortable and beautifully landscaped accommodations and deliciously prepared meals and coffee!

Thank you, Blaine community, for all your prayers and support! 

Team Members: Anne Arakaki-Lock, Joshua Akiyama, Milo Choe, Nina Choe, Judy Kuo, Laura Gilbert, Kenji Guess, Alice Ikeda, Howard Nakase, Jill Nishi, Katelyn Nakase, Zachary Nakase, Janet Sekijima, Margaret Sekijima, Bob Sekijima, Donna Sekijima, Lourdes Tifre, Pastor Zulma Tifre, Stacy Lopez, Martin Yagi, Teresa Yagi, Pearl Yamamoto

Announcements

This image has an empty alt attribute; its file name is coffee.png

Prayers and Coffee on Zoom • Wednesdays at 9am

Join Rev. Karen for prayer and community on Wednesdays at 9:00 AM on Zoom. Our time together consists of brief check-ins, devotionals, and prayers. This is a great way to start your morning, 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.

Read about Mission Guatemala in the latest Beacon!


Bazaar 2024 is coming! Mark your calendars for this awesome event! Pre-order your favorite foods by clicking on the image above!

Blaine Memorial Bazaar and Mission Guatemala

A portion of the proceeds will benefit Mission Guatemala. Mission Guatemala helps meet the basic needs and improve the quality of life of underserved Guatemalan people through health, education, and nutrition initiatives and meaningful missionary service. Together, we can make a difference!

Bazaar: Volunteers Needed!

We cannot do this without our trusted volunteers to help out at Bazaar! We need help grilling, cooking, making ohagi, selling baked goods, etc. Please sign up in the Social Hall. 

Please contact Lesley Okura (okura5@aol.com) if you have any questions.

Volunteer Pie-Makers Needed!

We are in GREAT need for many volunteers, at least 30 people for Pie Making, on October 3 at 10:00AM! We will be working in the LAC to make and bake pies for the Bazaar! 

Baked Goods Also Needed!

Do you love to bake? We need baked goods donations for our Bake Goods booth at the Bazaar! We’re seeking donations of baked mochi, manju, brownies and cookies. Please bring them in on Saturday, October 5 before 10:00AM!

Blaine’s special 120th Anniversary Aprons are created from cotton rice bags

Purchase Anniversary Aprons, October 5!

Wow, we are so grateful and excited to see the many rice bags that were generously donated to us recently by Jean Okazaki! Jean’s daughter, Kathleen, read of Blaine’s need for more rice bags and responded! Now our capable and hard working sewers are busy making more of our special 120th Anniversary Aprons.

They will be available for sale at our upcoming Bazaar on October 5th or through the church office. They are $40 and we are happy to accept more; the additional dollars would be considered a donation.

Fall Book Study: “Context: Putting Scripture in Its Place”

You’re invited to join Rev. Dr. John Miyahara (UMC Navy Chaplain), Rev. Brian Lee (Simpson UMC in Arvada, CO), and congregation members of the Japanese American United Methodist Caucus in a 6-week book study. We will be reading Context: Putting Scripture in its Place. Please note that reading the book isn’t required!

Books are available in the Church Office for $17.00. The study will begin on Tuesday, October 1, 2024 from 6:30-8:00 PM. The Zoom link will be sent out closer to the beginning of the book study date. Please contact Rev. Karen will any questions.

The Rev. Karen Yokota Love speaks during a QA session with clergy during Asian Camp 2024.

Asian Camp 50th Anniversary Event (Southern California) • October 12

Calling all Asian Camp campers, counselors, directors, past and present! RSVP for this years AC 50th anniversary event on October 12! RSVPs & ticket purchasing is due by August 20th, 2024.

  • Visit withjoy.com/asiancamp
  • Ticket purchasing will be done through PayPal found at njaumccamps.org/50th OR checks made out to NJAUMC Camping Ministries, sent to our Camping Board Finance Chair Carol Tondo at 2313 Pacific Avenue, Manhattan Beach, CA 90266.

In addition, the Sunday following (10/13), we will be having a joint gathering/service at Centenary UMC at 2PM. Join us in continuing to fellowship together as we celebrate 50 years of camp! Please contact Rev. Karen if you have any questions.

Afghanistan and Ukrainian Refugee Donation Ministry

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 at the Blaine Memorial Social Hall from Tuesday-Friday between 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM. 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 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM, 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 or Anne Arakaki-Lock.

View the October 2024 Calendar

Learn More
Senior Pastor Reflection Comments Off on Senior Pastor Reflection

Senior Pastor Reflection

Posted by on Oct 1, 2024 in Blaine Youth Group, Church News & Events, Pastors' Columns, Prayer, Service Opportunities, Small Groups, Spiritual Formation

Blaine Memorial UMC church members attend Opening Day at the WA State Fair to view the Remembrance Gallery.

The Rev. Karen Yokota Love speaks during the Liberation Obon at the Northwest ICE Processing Center.

Remembrance ushers in Autumn events, ministerial opportunities

By the Rev. Karen Yokota Love

Although I love all four seasons, I have a special fondness for autumn. Autumn ushers in cooler temperatures, shorter days, and brilliant colors. You can’t miss fall or ignore it. I love walking around the neighborhood and admiring the variations of color in the leaves, the plants, and the cold crisp air. 

Autumn without a doubt signals one event that comes to mind: BAZAAR (order now!)! As I write this, the church is hustling and bustling as we prepare for our annual Benefit Bazaar on Saturday, October 5 from 11:00AM-6:00PM. This year’s beneficiary is Mission Guatemala.

Autumn also signals great celebrations. Please mark these important dates on your calendar:

  • World Communion Sunday is on October 6. We’ll remember our diversity and heritage in the church. We’ll celebrate our similarities and differences, and we’ll see that there’s more that unites us than divides us. 
  • A Trunk-or-Treat will be on Sunday, October 27 after worship. 
  • Stewardship Sunday begins in worship on November 3.
  • All Saints Sunday is on November 3. This year’s worship service is designed to show honor and reverence to our saints in the Blaine Memorial UMC community who passed away in the last year from November 1, 2023-October 23, 2024. We will give thanks to each of them. Each of the departed names will be read aloud and a bell will be rung.

In August, the Puyallup Valley JACL unveiled the Puyallup Assembly Center Remembrance Gallery at the Washington State Fairgrounds. The gallery tells the story of our very own Blaine Memorial church members and Nikkei in Washington State who were removed or otherwise affected by Executive Order 9066 during WWII. 

Sharon Sobie-Seymour sports her Remembrance Gallery happi coat during the Liberation Obon at the Northwest Detention Center.

Blaine Memorial UMC brought two different groups to multiple days of special unveilings of this exhibit. Our first adventure was on Survivors Day, where the official ribbon cutting happened. Blaine had 15 people in attendance. People who survived the Puyallup Fairgrounds assembly center and anyone who was incarcerated at any of the camps were invited. I was privileged to provide the Opening Prayer and blessing of the space.

The Liberation Obon brought together many within the community to bring attention to those detained in the Northwest Detention Center.

The second event we attended was on opening day of the Fair where we brought 30 church members to see the gallery. For the first time, many saw their names on the Remembrance Gallery wall, some spoke with news crews and others told stories to their grandchildren. Some experienced the sights, sounds, and smells of a replica 1942 horse stall living quarters to better understand those living conditions. Afterwards, we all explored the Fair together. 

The Gallery is a unique combination of a memorial and historical experience. Over 7,600 names of Japanese and Japanese Americans who were all wrongfully incarcerated on the Puyallup Fairgrounds will permanently be displayed.  

On September 1, after worship, Blaine members caravaned to the Northwest ICE Processing Center (formerly known as the Northwest Detention Center), where Japanese American anti-detention activists hosted a colorful and lively first-ever “Liberation Obon.” The Obon served as an opportunity to bring the community directly to the site of Processing Center where they witnessed firsthand the barbed wire fences, armed guards and ever-present threat of violence – the same conditions Japanese Americans faced in camp. With taiko drums and music, it also let people inside know that they are not alone or forgotten. Japanese Americans have a moral obligation to advocate in solidarity with those who are detained today.

Let this special time of autumn and change transform and enlighten you. Be courageous, be kind, and be the hope for the future! 

Puyallup Assembly Center and Incarceration Camp survivors attended Survivors Day at the soft opening of the Puyallup Remembrance Gallery at the Washington State Fairgrounds on August 15, 2024.

Announcements

This image has an empty alt attribute; its file name is coffee.png

Prayers and Coffee on Zoom • Wednesdays at 9am

Join Rev. Karen for prayer and community on Wednesdays at 9:00 AM on Zoom. Our time together consists of brief check-ins, devotionals, and prayers. This is a great way to start your morning, 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.

Read about Mission Guatemala in the latest Beacon!


Bazaar 2024 is coming! Mark your calendars for this awesome event! Pre-order your favorite foods by clicking on the image above!

Blaine Memorial Bazaar and Mission Guatemala

A portion of the proceeds will benefit Mission Guatemala. Mission Guatemala helps meet the basic needs and improve the quality of life of underserved Guatemalan people through health, education, and nutrition initiatives and meaningful missionary service. Together, we can make a difference!

Bazaar: Volunteers Needed!

We cannot do this without our trusted volunteers to help out at Bazaar! We need help grilling, cooking, making ohagi, selling baked goods, etc. Please sign up in the Social Hall. 

Please contact Lesley Okura (okura5@aol.com) if you have any questions.

Volunteer Pie-Makers Needed!

We are in GREAT need for many volunteers, at least 30 people for Pie Making, on October 3 at 10:00AM! We will be working in the LAC to make and bake pies for the Bazaar! 

Baked Goods Also Needed!

Do you love to bake? We need baked goods donations for our Bake Goods booth at the Bazaar! We’re seeking donations of baked mochi, manju, brownies and cookies. Please bring them in on Saturday, October 5 before 10:00AM!

Blaine’s special 120th Anniversary Aprons are created from cotton rice bags

Purchase Anniversary Aprons, October 5!

Wow, we are so grateful and excited to see the many rice bags that were generously donated to us recently by Jean Okazaki! Jean’s daughter, Kathleen, read of Blaine’s need for more rice bags and responded! Now our capable and hard working sewers are busy making more of our special 120th Anniversary Aprons.

They will be available for sale at our upcoming Bazaar on October 5th or through the church office. They are $40 and we are happy to accept more; the additional dollars would be considered a donation.

Fall Book Study: “Context: Putting Scripture in Its Place”

You’re invited to join Rev. Dr. John Miyahara (UMC Navy Chaplain), Rev. Brian Lee (Simpson UMC in Arvada, CO), and congregation members of the Japanese American United Methodist Caucus in a 6-week book study. We will be reading Context: Putting Scripture in its Place. Please note that reading the book isn’t required!

Books are available in the Church Office for $17.00. The study will begin on Tuesday, October 1, 2024 from 6:30-8:00 PM. The Zoom link will be sent out closer to the beginning of the book study date. Please contact Rev. Karen will any questions.

The Rev. Karen Yokota Love speaks during a QA session with clergy during Asian Camp 2024.

Asian Camp 50th Anniversary Event (Southern California) • October 12

Calling all Asian Camp campers, counselors, directors, past and present! RSVP for this years AC 50th anniversary event on October 12! RSVPs & ticket purchasing is due by August 20th, 2024.

  • Visit withjoy.com/asiancamp
  • Ticket purchasing will be done through PayPal found at njaumccamps.org/50th OR checks made out to NJAUMC Camping Ministries, sent to our Camping Board Finance Chair Carol Tondo at 2313 Pacific Avenue, Manhattan Beach, CA 90266.

In addition, the Sunday following (10/13), we will be having a joint gathering/service at Centenary UMC at 2PM. Join us in continuing to fellowship together as we celebrate 50 years of camp! Please contact Rev. Karen if you have any questions.

Afghanistan and Ukrainian Refugee Donation Ministry

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 at the Blaine Memorial Social Hall from Tuesday-Friday between 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM. 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 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM, 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 or Anne Arakaki-Lock.

View the October 2024 Calendar

Learn More
Nineteenth Sunday after Pentecost & Mission Guatemala Sunday Comments Off on Nineteenth Sunday after Pentecost & Mission Guatemala Sunday

Nineteenth Sunday after Pentecost & Mission Guatemala Sunday

Posted by on Sep 29, 2024 in Blaine Youth Group, Church News & Events, Congregational Care, Giving, Prayer, Sermons, Service Opportunities, Small Groups, Spiritual Formation, Sunday Worship, Weekly Calendar

All are Welcome!

  • Nineteenth Sunday after Pentecost
  • Mission Guatemala Sunday
  • September 29, 2024, 10:00am
  • Hybrid Worship
  • Continue scrolling or view the PDF

Order of Worship

Prelude
The Family Prayer Song
Morris Chapman                         
Kathy Onishi 
Welcome of Grace and Greeting
Rev. Karen Yokota Love
*Call to Worship
Jill Nishi
*Opening Song      
Spirit Song
UMH #347 
Eugene and Kathy Onishi 
Opening Prayer                
Josh Akiyama
Celebrating the Reappointments of Our Clergy   
Arlene Naganawa
First Scripture Reading  
James 5:13-20   
Tsutomu Nagoya, Anne Arakaki-Lock
Children’s Message
Sai Hanaoka
Anthem
Go Ye, Go Ye Into the World
Natalie Sleeth
Blaine Memorial Choir
Mission Guatemala Testimonials
Katelyn Nakase, Kenji Guess
Mission Guatemala Video
Alice Ikeda
Second Scripture Reading
Philippians 2:1-4  
Tsutomu Nagoya, Howard Nakase
Third Scripture Reading
Hebrews 13:16 
Tsutomu Nagoya, Howard Nakase
Mission Guatemala Testimonials
Alice Ikeda, Bob Sekijima
Song of Reflection    
Change My Heart, O God 
TFWS #2152 
Eugene and Kathy Onishi
Introduction to the Offering
Margaret Sekijima
*Doxology
Praise God, from Whom All 
Blessings Flow
(UMH #94)
Eugene and Kathy Onishi
*Prayer of Dedication
Donna Sekijima
*Announcements
Rev. Karen Yokota Love
*Closing Song
Together We Serve
TFWS #2175
*Benediction
Rev. Karen Yokota Love
Postlude
One God and Father of Us All
P. Carlson, K. Matthews, J. Carraway
Kathy Onishi
Passing of the Peace
Rev. Karen Yokota Love
Zoom Break Out Room 
Dale Kaneko

Sermon Questions

  • Who do you think your neighbor is?
  • Why does the Blaine Memorial community support local, national and international missions/outreach? 

Daily Lectionary Readings

Sunday, September 29, 2024: 
Esther 7:1-6, 9-10 • 9:20-22 and Psalm 124 • Numbers 11:4-6, 10-16, 24-29 and Psalm 19:7-14 • 
James 5:13-20 • Mark 9:38-50
Monday, September 30, 2024:
Semi-continuous: Psalm 140 • Esther 4:1-17 • 1 Peter 1:3-9. Complementary: Psalm 5 • Zechariah 6:9-15 • 1 Peter 1:3-9
Tuesday, October 01, 2024:
Semi-continuous: Psalm 140 • Esther 5:1-14 • 1 John 2:18-25. Complementary: Psalm 5 • Zechariah 8:18-23 • 1 John 2:18-25
Wednesday, October 02, 2024:
Semi-continuous: Psalm 140 • Esther 8:1-17 • Matthew 18:6-9. Complementary: Psalm 5 • Zechariah 10:1-12 • Matthew 18:6-9
Thursday, October 03, 2024:
Semi-continuous: Psalm 26 • Job 2:11-3:26 • Galatians 3:23-29. Complementary: Psalm 8 • 
Genesis 20:1-18 • Galatians 3:23-29
Friday, October 04, 2024:
Semi-continuous: Psalm 26 • Job 4:1-21 • Romans 8:1-11. Complementary: Psalm 8 • Genesis 21:22-34 • Romans 8:1-11
Saturday, October 05, 2024:
Semi-continuous: Psalm 26 • Job 7:1-21 • Luke 16:14-18. Complementary: Psalm 8 • Genesis 23:1-20 • Luke 16:14-18

Announcements

This image has an empty alt attribute; its file name is coffee.png

Prayers and Coffee on Zoom • Wednesdays at 9am

Join Rev. Karen for prayer and community on Wednesdays at 9:00 AM on Zoom. Our time together consists of brief check-ins, devotionals, and prayers. This is a great way to start your morning, 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.

Read about Mission Guatemala in the latest Beacon!

A beautiful landscape view of green plants on hills and Volcan de Fuego mountains on the horizon in Antigua, Guatemala

Mission Guatemala Sunday • Today

Twenty-two church members/missionaries who ventured off to Panajachel, Guatemala during the month of August will share their faith testimonies from their week-long trip. Congregation members will learn more about how we can help and support Mission Guatemala and the people in Panajachel and why they are the beneficiary at this year’s Bazaar.


Bazaar 2024 is coming! Mark your calendars for this awesome event! Pre-order your favorite foods by clicking on the image above!

Blaine Memorial Bazaar and Mission Guatemala

A portion of the proceeds will benefit Mission Guatemala. Mission Guatemala helps meet the basic needs and improve the quality of life of underserved Guatemalan people through health, education, and nutrition initiatives and meaningful missionary service. Together, we can make a difference!

Bazaar: Volunteers Needed!

We cannot do this without our trusted volunteers to help out at Bazaar! We need help grilling, cooking, making ohagi, selling baked goods, etc. Please sign up in the Social Hall. 

Please contact Lesley Okura (okura5@aol.com) if you have any questions.

Volunteer Pie-Makers Needed!

We are in GREAT need for many volunteers, at least 30 people for Pie Making, on October 3 at 10:00AM! We will be working in the LAC to make and bake pies for the Bazaar! 

Baked Goods Also Needed!

Do you love to bake? We need baked goods donations for our Bake Goods booth at the Bazaar! We’re seeking donations of baked mochi, manju, brownies and cookies. Please bring them in on Saturday, October 5 before 10:00AM!

Blaine’s special 120th Anniversary Aprons are created from cotton rice bags

Purchase Anniversary Aprons, October 5!

Wow, we are so grateful and excited to see the many rice bags that were generously donated to us recently by Jean Okazaki! Jean’s daughter, Kathleen, read of Blaine’s need for more rice bags and responded! Now our capable and hard working sewers are busy making more of our special 120th Anniversary Aprons.

They will be available for sale at our upcoming Bazaar on October 5th or through the church office. They are $40 and we are happy to accept more; the additional dollars would be considered a donation.

Fall Book Study: “Context: Putting Scripture in Its Place”

You’re invited to join Rev. Dr. John Miyahara (UMC Navy Chaplain), Rev. Brian Lee (Simpson UMC in Arvada, CO), and congregation members of the Japanese American United Methodist Caucus in a 6-week book study. We will be reading Context: Putting Scripture in its Place. Please note that reading the book isn’t required!

Books are available in the Church Office for $17.00. The study will begin on Tuesday, October 1, 2024 from 6:30-8:00 PM. The Zoom link will be sent out closer to the beginning of the book study date. Please contact Rev. Karen will any questions.

The Rev. Karen Yokota Love speaks during a QA session with clergy during Asian Camp 2024.

Asian Camp 50th Anniversary Event (Southern California) • October 12

Calling all Asian Camp campers, counselors, directors, past and present! RSVP for this years AC 50th anniversary event on October 12! RSVPs & ticket purchasing is due by August 20th, 2024.

  • Visit withjoy.com/asiancamp
  • Ticket purchasing will be done through PayPal found at njaumccamps.org/50th OR checks made out to NJAUMC Camping Ministries, sent to our Camping Board Finance Chair Carol Tondo at 2313 Pacific Avenue, Manhattan Beach, CA 90266.

In addition, the Sunday following (10/13), we will be having a joint gathering/service at Centenary UMC at 2PM. Join us in continuing to fellowship together as we celebrate 50 years of camp! Please contact Rev. Karen if you have any questions.

Afghanistan and Ukrainian Refugee Donation Ministry

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 at the Blaine Memorial Social Hall from Tuesday-Friday between 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM. 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 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM, 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 or Anne Arakaki-Lock.

View the Calendars

Learn More
Eighteenth Sunday after Pentecost & Camping Ministries Sunday Comments Off on Eighteenth Sunday after Pentecost & Camping Ministries Sunday

Eighteenth Sunday after Pentecost & Camping Ministries Sunday

Posted by on Sep 22, 2024 in Blaine Youth Group, Church News & Events, Congregational Care, Giving, Innovation Hub, Prayer, Sermons, Service Opportunities, Small Groups, Spiritual Formation, Sunday Worship, Weekly Calendar

All are Welcome!

  • Eighteenth Sunday after Pentecost
  • Camping Ministries Sunday
  • September 22, 2024, 10:00am
  • Hybrid Worship
  • Continue scrolling or view the PDF
  • Today’s altar flowers are provided by The Sekijima Family in memory of Connie Sekijima.

Order of Worship

Prelude
Matthew 11
By Wes Terasaki
Nathan Buck
Welcome of Grace and Greeting 
Rev. Karen Yokota Love
*Call to Worship 
Marisa Ikegami
*Opening Congregational Song 
Christ In Me 
Nathan Buck and the BYG Youth
Opening Prayer
Marisa Ikegami
First Scripture Reading
Hebrews 13:5-8
Tsutomu Nagoya, Marcus Corsilles 
Asian Camp Testimonials
Emma Hearn, Katelyn Nakase
Asian Camp Slide Show
Yesterday, Today, and Forever 
Kai Yamamoto
Second Scripture Reading
Isaiah 26:3-4
Tsutomu Nagoya, Josh Akiyama
Jr. High Camp Testimonials
Jordan Lew, Tyler Ikegami,
Kai Yamamoto, Aidan Lew
Response Song
My Lighthouse
Nathan Buck and the BYG Youth
Introduction to the Offering
Annabelle Akiyama
Offertory Music
Build My Life
Music by Pat Barrett
Nathan Buck 
*Doxology
Praise God, from Whom All Blessings Flow
Kathy Onishi, Eugene Onishi
*Prayer of Dedication
Annabelle Akiyama
Prayers of the People
Rev. Karen Yokota Love
Announcements
Rev. Karen Yokota Love
*Closing Congregation Song
Days of Love
Words and music Wes Terasaki
Nathan Buck and the BYG Youth
*Benediction
Rev. Karen Yokota Love
Postlude
Another in the Fire
By Hillsong United
Nathan Buck

Sermon Questions

  • How do you trust God? 
  • How can you use your faith to create a good future for the youth of tomorrow?

Daily Lectionary

Sunday, September 22, 2024
Proverbs 31:10-31 and Psalm 1 • Wisdom of Solomon 1:16-2:1, 12-22 or Jeremiah 11:18-20 and Psalm 54 • James 3:13 – 4:3, 7-8a • Mark 9:30-37 
Monday, September 23, 2024
Semi-continuous: Psalm 128 • Proverbs 27:1-27 • James 4:8-17 • Complementary: Psalm 139:1-18 • 2 Kings 5:1-14 • James 4:8-17
Tuesday, September 24, 2024
Semi-continuous: Psalm 128 • Ecclesiastes 4:9-16 • James 5:1-6. Complementary: Psalm 139:1-18 • 2 Kings 11:21-12:16 • James 5:1-6
Wednesday, September 25, 2024
Semi-continuous: Psalm 128 • Ecclesiastes 5:1-20 • John 8:21-38. Complementary: Psalm 139:1-18 • Jeremiah 1:4-10 • John 8:21-38
Thursday, September 26, 2024
Semi-continuous: Psalm 124 • Esther 1:1-21 • Acts 4:13-31. Complementary: Psalm 19:7-14 • Exodus 18:13-27 • Acts 4:13-31
Friday, September 27, 2024
Semi-continuous: Psalm 124 • Esther 2:1-23 • Acts 12:20-25. Complementary: Psalm 19:7-14 • Deuteronomy 1:1-18 • Acts 12:20-25
Saturday, September 28, 2024
Semi-continuous: Psalm 124 • Esther 3:1-15 • Matthew 5:13-20. Complementary: Psalm 19:7-14 • Deuteronomy 27:1-10 • Matthew 5:13-20

Announcements

Our BYG campers enjoy a fun week of Asian Camp with plenty of outdoor games, worship, workshops, and the “messy day” experience.

Junior High Camp (incoming 6th-9th grade) was held on June 23-28, 2024 at Camp Lodestar in Wilseyville, California.

Camping Ministries Sunday • Today!

Our youth are sharing their faith testimonies from Jr. High Camp and Asian Camp. Congregation members will learn more about the National Japanese American United Methodist Church (NJAUMC) Camping Ministries programs which include our summer camps, Jr. High Camp and Asian Camp and what the future holds for our camping ministries. We’ll sing new and old camp songs together and our BYG youth will lead this

Bazaar 2024 is coming! Mark your calendars for this awesome event! Pre-order your favorite foods by clicking on the image above!

Volunteers grill delicious chicken teriyaki during Bazaar.

Bazaar: Volunteers Needed!

We cannot do this without our trusted volunteers to help out at Bazaar! We need help grilling, cooking, making ohagi, selling baked goods, etc. Please sign up in the Social Hall. 

Please contact Lesley Okura if you have any questions.

Blaine Memorial Bazaar and Mission Guatemala

A portion of the proceeds will benefit Mission Guatemala. Mission Guatemala helps meet the basic needs and improve the quality of life of underserved Guatemalan people through health, education, and nutrition initiatives and meaningful missionary service. Together, we can make a difference!

Reflections on 120 Years of Grace Discussion Sessions • 9/22, 10/13, 10/20

The Archives Committee is sponsoring a four-part discussion series on the 120-year history and future of Blaine Memorial UMC, titled “Reflections on 120 Years of Grace.”  The discussion sessions will be held from 11:45 a.m. to 12:45 p.m. after Sunday service in the Social Hall on September 15 and 22 and October 13 and 20, 2024.  Light refreshments will be served. 

Today’s session, titled “Strong in Hope,” will discuss the incarcerated church in WW II and the postwar rebuilding of the church to 1964.  The third session, titled “Serve in Love,” will center on the years 1965 to 2024 and the fourth, titled “Into the Future,” will reflect on what we have learned and discuss our visions for the future development of the church.  Materials will be presented from the archives as well as church members knowledgeable about each period will speak of their experiences. 

There will be ample time for participants to ask questions and share their own thoughts. Please join us in learning more about our church’s history and begin discussions on our visions for the next 120 years.

In conjunction with this discussion series, the Archives Committee is organizing another “competition” organized by Shig Nishida.  We are asking members to submit their reflections on the history and future of Blaine Memorial UMC.  This can take the form of submitting a few sentences, a paragraph, a short essay, short graphic novel/cartoon/anime, short play, a prayer, poems, music/song (new composition or lyrics sung to the tune of a known song), artwork, video, dance, etc.  Let us read/hear/see/feel your thoughts on the 120 years of Grace and the next 120 years of Grace for Blaine Memorial UMC.  Submit your entries to the Blaine Memorial UMC office by October 27, 2024 (sooner than later is preferred).

The Archives Committee continually seeks relevant church documents, photographs, and other materials and memorabilia to add to our archival records and illuminate previously unknown parts of our church’s history. Please let the committee know if you have any materials to donate or materials for the committee to scan and add to the archives. Monetary donations in support of the work of the archives are also appreciated.

This image has an empty alt attribute; its file name is coffee.png

Prayers and Coffee on Zoom • Wednesdays at 9am

Join Rev. Karen for prayer and community on Wednesdays at 9:00 AM on Zoom. Our time together consists of brief check-ins, devotionals, and prayers. This is a great way to start your morning, 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.

A beautiful landscape view of green plants on hills and Volcan de Fuego mountains on the horizon in Antigua, Guatemala

Mission Guatemala Sunday • Next week, September 29

Twenty-two church members/missionaries who ventured off to Panajachel, Guatemala during the month of August will share their faith testimonies from their week-long trip. Congregation members will learn more about how we can help and support Mission Guatemala and the people in Panajachel and why they are the beneficiary at this year’s Bazaar.

Fall Book Study: “Context: Putting Scripture in Its Place”

You’re invited to join Rev. Dr. John Miyahara (UMC Navy Chaplain), Rev. Brian Lee (Simpson UMC in Arvada, CO), and congregation members of the Japanese American United Methodist Caucus in a 6-week book study. We will be reading Context: Putting Scripture in its Place. Please note that reading the book isn’t required! Books are available in the Church Office for $17.00. The study will begin on Tuesday, October 1, 2024 from 6:30-8:00 PM. The Zoom link will be sent out closer to the beginning of the book study date. Please contact Rev. Karen will any questions.

The Rev. Karen Yokota Love speaks during a QA session with clergy during Asian Camp 2024.

Asian Camp 50th Anniversary Event (Southern California) • October 12

Calling all Asian Camp campers, counselors, directors, past and present! RSVP for this years AC 50th anniversary event on October 12! RSVPs & ticket purchasing is due by August 20th, 2024.

  • Visit withjoy.com/asiancamp
  • Ticket purchasing will be done through PayPal found at njaumccamps.org/50th OR checks made out to NJAUMC Camping Ministries, sent to our Camping Board Finance Chair Carol Tondo at 2313 Pacific Avenue, Manhattan Beach, CA 90266.

In addition, the Sunday following (10/13), we will be having a joint gathering/service at Centenary UMC at 2PM. Join us in continuing to fellowship together as we celebrate 50 years of camp! Please contact Rev. Karen if you have any questions.

Afghanistan and Ukrainian Refugee Donation Ministry

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 at the Blaine Memorial Social Hall from Tuesday-Friday between 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM. 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 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM, 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 or Anne Arakaki-Lock.

Learn More
Seventeenth Sunday after Pentecost Comments Off on Seventeenth Sunday after Pentecost

Seventeenth Sunday after Pentecost

Posted by on Sep 15, 2024 in Blaine Youth Group, Church News & Events, Giving, Prayer, Sermons, Service Opportunities, Small Groups, Spiritual Formation, Sunday Worship, Weekly Calendar

All are Welcome!

  • Seventeenth Sunday after Pentecost
  • September 15, 2024 • 10:00am
  • Hybrid Worship
  • Continue scrolling or view the PDF
  • Thank you Miriam Tong for today’s flower arrangement

Order of Worship

Prelude 
Arioso
J.S. Bach (arr. Lorenz)
Campanella Bell Choir
Welcome of Grace and Greeting 
Rev. Karen Yokota Love
*Call to Worship
By Dr. Lisa Hancock 
Christine Yorozu
*Opening Song 
As the Deer 
(TFWS #2025)
Eugene Onishi and Miriam Tong
Opening Prayer 
Christine Yorozu
First Scripture Reading
James 3:1-12 (JLB, CEB) 
Tsutomu Nagoya, Christine Yorozu
Children’s Message
Sai Hanaoka
Special Music
Lacrymosa
By Mozart
Campanella Bell Choir
Second Scripture Reading
Mark 8:27-38 (JLB, CEB) 
Tsutomu Nagoya, Christine Yorozu 
Sermon
Who Do You Say I Am?
Rev. Karen Yokota Love
Hymn of Meditation
Cry of My Heart
(TFWS #2165) 
Eugene Onishi and Kathy Onishi
Invitation to the Offering
Christine Yorozu
Offertory Music
Pastoral on Forest Green 
Dale Wood
Campanella Bell Choir
*Doxology
Praise God, from Whom All Blessings Flow
Ron Ebbers 
*Prayer of Dedication
Christine Yorozu
Announcements
Rev. Karen Yokota Love
*Closing Hymn
More Like You
Eugene Onishi and Kathy Onishi
(TFWS #2167)
*Benediction
Rev. Karen Yokota Love
Postlude
Joyful Praise
Hal Hapson
Campanella Bell Choir

Sermon Questions

  • Read Mark 8:27-38. How would your closest friends share words that best describe you?
  • What labels were people using to describe Jesus in His day? Why? What words do people today use today? What shapes their opinions?
  • Why is the question, “Who do you say I am?” (v.29) important? Who is Jesus and how has your answer changed over time?
  • What reasons does Jesus give for why people should follow him down this hard road?
  • How has your relationship with Jesus affected your lifestyle? Relationships? Priorities? Politics?

Daily Lectionary

Sunday, September 15, 2024:
Proverbs 1:20-33; Isaiah 50:4-9a; Psalm 19; Wisdom of Solomon 7:26 – 8:1; James 3:1-12; Mark 8:27-38; Psalm 116:1-9
Monday, September 16, 2024:
Semi-continuous: Psalm 73:21-28; Proverbs 22:1-21; Romans 3:9-20; Complementary: Psalm 119:169-176; 1 Kings 13:1-10; Romans 3:9-20
Tuesday, September 17, 2024:
Semi-continuous: Psalm 73:21-28; Proverbs 25:1-28; Colossians 3:1-11; Complementary: Psalm 119:169-176; 1 Kings 13:11-25; Colossians 3:1-11
Wednesday, September 18, 2024:
Semi-continuous: Psalm 73:21-28; Proverbs 29:1-27; John 7:25-36; Complementary: Psalm 119:169-176; Isaiah 10:12-20; John 7:25-36
Thursday, September 19, 2024:
Semi-continuous: Psalm 1; Proverbs 30:1-10; 1 Corinthians 2:1-5; Complementary: Psalm 54; Judges 6:1-10; 1 Corinthians 2:1-5
Friday, September 20, 2024: 
Semi-continuous: Psalm 1; Proverbs 30:18-33; Romans 11:25-32; Complementary: Psalm 54; 1 Kings 22:24-40; Romans 11:25-32
Saturday, September 21, 2024: 
Semi-continuous: Psalm 1; Ecclesiastes 1:1-18; Matthew 23:29-39; Complementary: Psalm 54; 2 Kings 17:5-18; Matthew 23:29-39

Announcements

Bazaar 2024 is coming! Mark your calendars for this awesome event! Pre-order your favorite foods by clicking on the image above!

Reflections on 120 Years of Grace Discussion Sessions • 9/15, 9/22, 10/13, 10/20

The Archives Committee is sponsoring a four-part discussion series on the 120-year history and future of Blaine Memorial UMC, titled “Reflections on 120 Years of Grace.”  The discussion sessions will be held from 11:45 a.m. to 12:45 p.m. after Sunday service in the Social Hall on September 15 and 22 and October 13 and 20, 2024.  Light refreshments will be served. 

The first session, titled “Go Forth in Faith,” will discuss the early church from 1904 to 1941.  The second session, titled “Strong in Hope,” will discuss the incarcerated church in WW II and the postwar rebuilding of the church to 1964.  The third session, titled “Serve in Love,” will center on the years 1965 to 2024 and the fourth, titled “Into the Future,” will reflect on what we have learned and discuss our visions for the future development of the church.  Materials will be presented from the archives as well as church members knowledgeable about each period will speak of their experiences. 

There will be ample time for participants to ask questions and share their own thoughts. Please join us in learning more about our church’s history and begin discussions on our visions for the next 120 years.

In conjunction with this discussion series, the Archives Committee is organizing another “competition” organized by Shig Nishida.  We are asking members to submit their reflections on the history and future of Blaine Memorial UMC.  This can take the form of submitting a few sentences, a paragraph, a short essay, short graphic novel/cartoon/anime, short play, a prayer, poems, music/song (new composition or lyrics sung to the tune of a known song), artwork, video, dance, etc.  Let us read/hear/see/feel your thoughts on the 120 years of Grace and the next 120 years of Grace for Blaine Memorial UMC.  Submit your entries to the Blaine Memorial UMC office by October 27, 2024 (sooner than later is preferred).

The Archives Committee continually seeks relevant church documents, photographs, and other materials and memorabilia to add to our archival records and illuminate previously unknown parts of our church’s history. Please let the committee know if you have any materials to donate or materials for the committee to scan and add to the archives. Monetary donations in support of the work of the archives are also appreciated.

This image has an empty alt attribute; its file name is coffee.png

Prayers and Coffee on Zoom • Wednesdays at 9am

Join Rev. Karen for prayer and community on Wednesdays at 9:00 AM on Zoom. Our time together consists of brief check-ins, devotionals, and prayers. This is a great way to start your morning, 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.

Camping Ministries Sunday • September 22

Our youth are sharing their faith testimonies from Jr. High Camp and Asian Camp. Congregation members will learn more about the National Japanese American United Methodist Church (NJAUMC) Camping Ministries programs which include our summer camps, Jr. High Camp and Asian Camp and what the future holds for our camping ministries. We’ll sing new and old camp songs together and our BYG youth will lead this worship service.

A beautiful landscape view of green plants on hills and Volcan de Fuego mountains on the horizon in Antigua, Guatemala

Mission Guatemala Sunday • September 29

Twenty-two church members/missionaries who ventured off to Panajachel, Guatemala during the month of August will share their faith testimonies from their week-long trip. Congregation members will learn more about how we can help and support Mission Guatemala and the people in Panajachel and why they are the beneficiary at this year’s Bazaar.

Content for the September issue of the Beacon will be on blaineonline.org. The October issue will be released in a few weeks. To see the archive, click the image above.

Beacon Newsletter Announcement

During September, stories and content for Blaine Memorial UMC’s newsletter, the “Beacon” will be uploaded to our website blaineonline.org. It is a busy time for Rev. Karen as she continues to search for support staff to lead our youth and perform other tasks to continue maintaining Blaine Memorial’s vibrant ministry. We are also working to improve our printing services and our ministry online – which also need time to develop.

Stay connected through announcements in our Sunday Worship Bulletin and at blaineonline.org. You can also follow Blaine Memorial UMC on Facebook.

The Rev. Karen Yokota Love speaks during a QA session with clergy during Asian Camp 2024.

Asian Camp 50th Anniversary Event (Southern California) • October 12

Calling all Asian Camp campers, counselors, directors, past and present! RSVP for this years AC 50th anniversary event on October 12! RSVPs & ticket purchasing is due by August 20th, 2024.

  • Visit withjoy.com/asiancamp
  • Ticket purchasing will be done through PayPal found at njaumccamps.org/50th OR checks made out to NJAUMC Camping Ministries, sent to our Camping Board Finance Chair Carol Tondo at 2313 Pacific Avenue, Manhattan Beach, CA 90266.

In addition, the Sunday following (10/13), we will be having a joint gathering/service at Centenary UMC at 2PM. Join us in continuing to fellowship together as we celebrate 50 years of camp! Please contact Rev. Karen if you have any questions.

Afghanistan and Ukrainian Refugee Donation Ministry

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 at the Blaine Memorial Social Hall from Tuesday-Friday between 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM. 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 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM, 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 or Anne Arakaki-Lock.

Learn More