Pastors’ Columns

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

Twenty-Sixth Sunday after Pentecost

Posted by on Nov 25, 2023 in Blaine Youth Group, Congregational Care, Giving, Innovation Hub, Pastors' Columns, Prayer, Sermons, Service Opportunities, Small Groups, Spiritual Formation, Sunday Worship, Weekly Calendar

Welcome!

  • Sunday, Nov. 26, 2023, 10am
  • Twenty-Sixth Sunday after Pentecost
  • Hybrid Worship
  • Continue scrolling or view the print version of the bulletin

Order of Worship

Prelude
Kathy Onishi
Welcome of Grace and Greeting
Rev. Karen Yokota Love
*Call to Worship 
Based on Psalm 100
By Bruce Prewer
Rev. Karen Yokota Love
*Opening Hymn 
Gather Us In
TFWS #2236
Eugene and Kathy Onishi
Opening Prayer
Rev. Karen Yokota Love
First Scripture Reading 
Matthew 25:31-46 CEB, JLB
S. Sumida, Y. Sofronas 
Children’s Message
Sai Hanaoka
Stewardship Campaign 2024
Sharon Maeda
Second Scripture Reading 
Ephesians 1:15-23 CEB, JLB
S. Sumida and Y. Sofronas 
Sermon
Anchored in Christ
Rev. Mia MiKyung Park
Hymn of Reflection
Christ is Made the Sure Foundation
UMH #559
Eugene and Kathy Onishi
Introduction to the Offering
Stephen Sumida
*Doxology
Praise God, from Whom All Blessings Flow
UMH #94
Eugene and Kathy Onishi
*Prayer of Dedication,
Pledge Card Consecration
Rev. Karen Yokota Love
Announcements 
Rev. Karen Yokota Love
*Closing Hymn 
Lord of the Dance
UMH #261
Eugene and Kathy Onishi
*Benediction 
Rev. Mia MiKyung Park
Postlude
Eugene and Kathy Onishi
Passing of the Peace 
Rev. Mia MiKyung Park
Zoom Breakout Room
Rev. Dr. Jeney Park-Hearn

Sermon Questions

1. The Apostle Paul emphasizes Christ as the head of the church. How does this impact your understanding of the role of Christ? How can it guide your interactions within the Christian community? What is your perspective on the role of the church in the world?

2. Reflect on the reign of Christ in verses 20-23. What does this signify about Christ’s authority and in what areas of your life do you readily recognize and submit to His authority?

3. How does the unchanging nature of Christ’s reign influence your trust and confidence in Him, particularly during uncertain times?

Daily Lectionary Readings

Monday, Nov. 27, 2023:
Semi-continuous: Psalm 28; Numbers 27:15-23; 2 Timothy 2:8-13
Complementary: Psalm 7; Esther 2:1-18; 2 Timothy 2:8-13
Tuesday, Nov. 28, 2023:
Semi-continuous: Psalm 28;  Zechariah 11:4-17;  Revelation 19:1-9
Complementary: Psalm 7;  Esther 8:3-17; Revelation 19:1-9
Wednesday, Nov. 29, 2023:
Semi-continuous: Psalm 28; Jeremiah 31:10-14; John 5:19-40
Complementary: Psalm 7;  Ezekiel 33:7-20; John 5:19-40
Thursday, November 30, 2023: 
Psalm 80:1-7, 17-19; Zechariah 13:1-9; Revelation 14:6-13
Friday, Dec. 1, 2023: 
Psalm 80:1-7, 17-19; Zechariah 14:1-9; 1 Thessalonians 4:1-18
Saturday, Dec. 2, 2023: 
Psalm 80:1-7, 17-19; Micah 2:1-13;  Matthew 24:15-31


Announcements

Christmas Eve Worship Times

This year, Christmas Eve is on Sunday (12/24). Therefore, Blaine Memorial UMC will host our regular 10:00AM Sunday Worship service celebrating the Fourth Sunday in Advent and one Christmas Eve Service at 5:00PM. The 5:00PM Christmas Eve Service will be our much-anticipated Christmas Eve Lesson and Carols with Candlelight Service. We hope you can join us!

Free hearing tests in the Library • Today

Do you have trouble understanding conversation in noisy places? Do you ask people to repeat themselves? Have people told you to get your hearing checked? If you are experiencing any of these concerns, there will be an opportunity immediately after worship to have your hearing checked. Offerings include a free screening of your hearing, and a free cleaning of your ears. If you use hearing aids, you can have those checked, as well. Please go to the Blaine Library to have your hearing checked!

Terri Adolfo hangs Giving Tree gift tags for the Blaine Memorial community.

Thanksgiving and Giving Tree Ministries 2023

Terri Adolfo and the Rev. Mia MiKyung Park have some important info regarding service opportunities that support Kimball Elementary. If you’re interested in helping with prep for Apple Crisp and the Giving Tree, read more.

Greening of Blaine 2023

All are welcome to participate in the Greening of Blaine 2023. There will be two work parties, this year: 

  • Tuesday, Nov. 28 (10a-12p) – Worship Committee & Pam Ikegami will focus on the Sanctuary.
  • Saturday, Dec. 2 (9a-12p) – Volunteers will mount the wreaths, garlands, and swags to decorate the outside of the church and to install the year’s Christmas tree. Lunch will be provided.

Please come take part! No prior experience necessary. Bring a tool to trim greenery for the wreaths! Welcome!

Wednesday Meditation & Prayer • November 29 at 9am

The Wednesday Prayer group continues to meet each week. Our time together consists of a check-in question centering around United Methodist Founder John Wesley’s famous question, “How is it with your soul?” Our time together continues with a few readings from The Upper Room Magazine. Finally, we end our time together with a pastoral prayer. Join us!

Gender and Faith Workshop • November 29 at 7pm

Join the Reconciling Ministries Task Force Team for a Gender and Faith Workshop, Wednesday November 29 at 7:00 PM on Zoom. We’ll build upon our learning from last session as we explore gender expression, pronouns, and gender expansiveness in the Bible. We’ll continue to follow the video and discussion-based curriculum called Theology, Identity, and Me. Join us by contacting the church office for Zoom info.

Paper Roll Collection

Do you have extra toilet paper rolls or paper towel rolls? If so, the Worship Committee is collecting them for an art project to decorate the sanctuary for the Advent and Christmas season. Please drop off your extra toilet paper rolls and/or paper towel rolls in the black treasure chest in the Narthex. Thank you!

Holiday Card Signing • Now to December 3

You’re invited to sign Christmas cards for our church members who are sick or in a skilled facility home. The cards are on multiple tables in the Social Hall waiting for your signature until Sunday (12/3). The Social Hall will be open during Church Office Hours (Tuesday-Friday, 10am-4pm). Please contact the Church Office at (206) 723-1536 if you’d like to sign the cards during the week.

Poinsettias on the Altar • Order now through December 17, 2023

Advent season is here and it is time to sign up for poinsettias for the altar. You may dedicate a poinsettia in celebration of a person or an event, in memory of a loved one or to honor God’s glory. Poinsettias may be taken home after our Christmas Eve services. Each plant is $12.00. The deadline for Poinsettia Orders will be Sunday, December 17, 2023.

Download the order form here.


November 2023 Calendar

Click on calendar to view the PDF.

Learn More
Twenty-Fifth Sunday after Pentecost Comments Off on Twenty-Fifth Sunday after Pentecost

Twenty-Fifth Sunday after Pentecost

Posted by on Nov 19, 2023 in Blaine Youth Group, Church News & Events, Congregational Care, Episcopal News, Giving, Innovation Hub, Pastors' Columns, Prayer, Sermons, Service Opportunities, Small Groups, Spiritual Formation, Sunday Worship, Videos, Weekly Calendar

Welcome!

Order of Worship

PreludeWe Are Called 
Miriam Tong
Welcome of Grace and Greeting 
Rev. Mia MiKyung Park 
*Call to Worship 
Rev. Mia MiKyung Park 
*Opening HymnHow Great Thou Art (UMH #77) 
Miriam Tong, Michelle Vaughan, and Neal Komedal 
Opening Prayer 
Rev. Mia MiKyung Park 
First Scripture ReadingMatthew 25:14-30 (CEB, JLB) 
Jamie Yates and Tsutomu Nagoya 
Children’s Message 
Rev. Mia MiKyung Park
Second Scripture ReadingPsalm 98 (NRSVUE, JLB)  
Shig Nishida and Tsutomu Nagoya
Sermon • Gratitude of Joy 
Rev. Karen Yokota Love
Hymn of ReflectionWhat Gift Can We Bring (UMH #87) 
Miriam Tong, Michelle Vaughan, and Neal Komedal

Introduction to the Offering 
Shig Nishida 
Offertory Music“Seek Ye First” by Karen Lafferty 
Miriam Tong
*DoxologyPraise God, from Whom All Blessings Flow (UMH #94) 
Miriam Tong, Michelle Vaughan, and Neal Komedal 
*Prayer of Dedication and Consecration of Pledge Cards
Rev. Karen Yokota Love 
Announcements 
Rev. Karen Yokota Love
*Closing HymnI Come with Joy (UMH #617) 
Miriam Tong, Michelle Vaughan, and Neal Komedal 
*Benediction 
Rev. Karen Yokota Love 
Postlude  “Lord I Lift Your Name on High” by Rick Founds 
Miriam Tong
Passing of the Peace 
Rev. Karen Yokota Love
Zoom Breakout Room 
Rev. Dr. Jeney Park-Hearn

Sermon Questions

1. Do you ever find it difficult to joyfully praise God? 

2. Is it difficult to trust that God will bring forth justice? 

3. What are a few of the simple (or small) things in life you have been grateful for this week? 

4. How have you seen God at work this week? 

Daily Lectionary Readings

Monday, November 20, 2023:
Semi-continuous: Psalm 83:1-4, 9-10, 17-18; Judges 4:8-24; Romans 2:1-11
Complementary: Psalm 9:1-14; Zechariah 1:7-17; Romans 2:1-11
Tuesday, November 21, 2023:
Semi-continuous: Psalm 83:1-4, 9-10, 17-18; Exodus 2:1-10; 1 Thessalonians 5:12-18
Complementary: Psalm 9:1-14; Zechariah 2:1-5; 5:1-4; 1 Thessalonians 5:12-18
Wednesday, November 22, 2023:
Semi-continuous: Psalm 83:1-4, 9-10, 17-18; Esther 7:1-10; Matthew 24:45-51
Complementary: Psalm 9:1-14; Job 16:1-21; Matthew 24:45-51
Thursday, November 23, 2023: Thanksgiving Day, USA
Semi-continuous: Psalm 100; Genesis 48:15-22; Revelation 14:1-11
Complementary: Psalm 95:1-7a; 1 Kings 22:13-23; Revelation 14:1-11
Friday, November 24, 2023:
Semi-continuous: Psalm 100; Isaiah 40:1-11; Revelation 22:1-9
Complementary: Psalm 95:1-7a; 1 Chronicles 17:1-15; Revelation 22:1-9
Saturday, November 25, 2023:
Semi-continuous: Psalm 100; Ezekiel 34:25-31; Matthew 12:46-50
Complementary: Psalm 95:1-7a; Isaiah 44:21-28; Matthew 12:46-50

Announcements

Video: All-Church Conference Meeting

This year’s All-Church Conference took place on Tuesday, November 14 at 7pm. This gathering held great significance for our faith community as we come together to celebrate our ministries in 2023. Our District Superintendent, Rev. Derek Nakano will presided over the meeting. View the video.

Video: BYG Suno Dogs Support Maui Relief!

Associate Director of the Blaine Youth Group, Kaylee Yokoyama, presents the team’s efforts to support Maui through it’s contributions of Suno Dog sales at this year’s Bazaar. Learn how the youth worked together to prep delicious Suno Dogs, as well as train youth in managing their booth.

Special thanks to Revs. Mia and Karen as well as our photographers and videographers, Kai Yamamoto, Kobe Yamamoto, and Joshua Santos.

View the Original Video page for more!

Poinsettias on the Altar • Order now through December 17, 2023

Advent season is here and it is time to sign up for poinsettias for the altar. You may dedicate a poinsettia in celebration of a person or an event, in memory of a loved one or to honor God’s glory. Poinsettias may be taken home after our Christmas Eve services. Each plant is $12.00. The deadline for Poinsettia Orders will be Sunday, December 17, 2023.

Download the order form here.

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

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

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

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

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

Wednesday Meditation & Prayer • Nov. 22 at 9am

The Wednesday Prayer group continues to meet each week. Our time together consists of a check-in question centering around United Methodist Founder John Wesley’s famous question, “How is it with your soul?” Our time together continues with a few readings from The Upper Room Magazine September/October edition. Finally, we end our time together with a pastoral prayer. We hope you can join us!

For more information, contact the church office for details!

Greening of Blaine 2023

All are welcome to participate in the Greening of Blaine 2023. There will be two work parties, this year: 

  • Tuesday, Nov. 28 (10a-12p) – Worship Committee & Pam Ikegami will focus on the Sanctuary.
  • Saturday, Dec. 2 (9a-12p) – Volunteers will mount the wreaths, garlands, and swags to decorate the outside of the church and to install the year’s Christmas tree. Lunch will be provided.

Please come take part! No prior experience necessary. Bring a tool to trim greenery for the wreaths! Welcome!

Gender and Faith Workshop • Wednesday, Nov. 29, 7pm

Join the Reconciling Ministries Task Force Team for a Gender and Faith Workshop, Wednesday November 29 at 7:00 PM on Zoom. We’ll build upon our learning from last session as we explore gender expression, pronouns, and gender expansiveness in the Bible. We’ll continue to follow the video and discussion-based curriculum called Theology, Identity, and Me. We hope you’ll join us!


View the Beacon News Page!

Read the latest issue of The Beacon newsletter, here or check out past issues.


November 2023 Calendar

Click on calendar to view the PDF.

Learn More
Associate Pastor’s Spiritual Reflection Comments Off on Associate Pastor’s Spiritual Reflection

Associate Pastor’s Spiritual Reflection

Posted by on Nov 7, 2023 in Congregational Care, Pastors' Columns, Prayer, Spiritual Formation

The Revs. John Go and Mia MiKyung Park and Nooni enjoy a day at Kubota Garden.

Gratitude is an Attitude

By Rev. Mia MiKyung Park

November ushers in a season of richness and abundance that naturally generates gratitude. Before I wrote my November newsletter article, I decided to scan through all the Beacon newsletters of 2023. As I flipped through the pages, I was reminded of the many wonderful ministries that unfolded over this year. Thank you all for your heartfelt ministries! On a personal note, it has been an eventful and meaningful year as well. My heart rejoices at the visits of my in-laws and my family. It seems that I still smile when I wake up from a sweet dream. My Ordination Service in 2023 was a highlight, marking a new beginning that fills my heart with gratitude.

Gratitude is more than a feeling; it’s an attitude that can transform our lives and our community. Gratitude is a confession that God’s grace reaches out without any limitations. It is a belief in God’s sovereignty and an acknowledgment that even when things don’t go as we desire, God is with us and carries us through. It’s a contagious force that revives our souls.

As we gear up for a month of Stewardship, I reflect on a conversation I had with a good friend who is a Christian and raised four wonderful children who are now grown. My friend is also a retired teacher, making it easy for me to discuss family matters with her. During our conversation, I expressed my concerns for my daughters, and she responded, “Mia, your children are not just your children; they are God’s children entrusted to you and John. God loves them more than you do, and God knows them better than you do. Trust God to lead their lives and believe in your daughters; they will grow up to become great adults.” This was an epiphanic moment for me, realizing that I am not only a steward of my time, treasure and talents but also a steward of all the relationships and responsibilities I have with people.

As I reflect on my Christian life as a steward, I pray and hope to encourage not only adults but also our youth and children to become more faithful stewards. I have come up with two thoughts on this. First, acknowledging the resource. When we understand that something is not truly ours, our attitude changes. We sing, “Praise God from whom all blessings flow … Praise God, the source of all our gifts” every Sunday. Singing the doxology is a humbling reminder that we are entrusted with an abundance of blessings that we can’t even count. Second, it’s better to practice the life of a steward from a young age. As a grown-up, it’s challenging to instill one practice as a habit, and we need to teach children and youth the value of being stewards from a young age. We are stewards of all our blessings, including our responsibilities.

Our Church School’s memorization verse for November is from the Apostle Paul: 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18: “Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances, for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.” This verse serves as a powerful reminder that gratitude is not limited to times of abundance and joy; we are encouraged to give thanks in all circumstances.

As we step into November, let us carry this attitude of gratitude with us every day. Let us remember to rejoice always and to give thanks, not just when things are going well, but in all circumstances. It is in cultivating this spirit of gratitude that we come to understand the richness of our lives and the boundless blessings that surround us. Let us continue to build a community of faith, hope, and love where gratitude overflows in each of our hearts. May your November be blessed and abundant, filled with moments that inspire thankfulness and joy.

The Rev. Mia MiKyung Park serves as the Associate Pastor of Blaine Memorial United Methodist Church.


Lectionary: Season After Pentecost

November 1, 2023
All Saints Day (Sometimes on the first Sunday in November)
Revelation 7:9-17 Psalm 34:1-10, 22 1 John 3:1-3 Matthew 5:1-12
November 5, 2023
Twenty-Third Sunday after Pentecost
Joshua 3:7-17 Psalm 107:1-7, 33-37 Micah 3:5-12 Psalm 43 1 Thessalonians 2:9-13 Matthew 23:1-12
November 12, 2023 
Twenty-Fourth Sunday after Pentecost (If All Saints not observed on this day)
Joshua 24:1-3a, 14-25 Psalm 78:1-7 Wisdom of Solomon 6:12-16 or Amos 5:18-24 Wisdom of Solomon 6:17-20 or Psalm 70 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18 Matthew 25:1-13
November 19, 2023
Twenty-Fifth Sunday after Pentecost
Judges 4:1-7 Psalm 123 Zephaniah 1:7, 12-18 Psalm 90:1-8, (9-11), 12 1 Thessalonians 5:1-11 Matthew 25:14-30
November 23, 2023
Thanksgiving Day
Deuteronomy 8:7-18 Psalm 65 2 Corinthians 9:6-15 Luke 17:11-19
November 26, 2023
Reign of Christ Twenty-Sixth Sunday after Pentecost
Ezekiel 34:11-16, 20-24 Psalm 100 Ezekiel 34:11-16, 20-24 Psalm 95:1-7a Ephesians 1:15-23 Matthew 25:31-46


Visit the Poinsettia page!

Orders are now open for Poinsettias on the Altar. Read more.


The Beacon is Now Available!

Read the latest issue of The Beacon newsletter, here!


November 2023 Calendar

Click on calendar to view the PDF.


Learn More
News from Our Senior Pastor Comments Off on News from Our Senior Pastor

News from Our Senior Pastor

Posted by on Nov 6, 2023 in Church News & Events, Pastors' Columns, Prayer, Service Opportunities, Small Groups, Spiritual Formation, Weekly Calendar

(L-R): Rev. Cruz Santos, Alma Santos, Rev. Karen, Rev. Mia, Rev. Jeney and Rev. Mark eat together on Pastor Appreciation Sunday and enjoy Chef Joshua’s Tortilla Soup. It went well with the onigiri. Thank you!

Gratitude & Stewardship: Together for Joy!

By the Rev. Karen Yokota Love

Pumpkin spice lattes, turkey and gratitude. The eleventh month is now upon us, drawing us closer to the end of 2023. It is a transition month, a month between autumn and winter, when the leaves get raked, and the crops have been harvested. We “fall back” from Daylight Savings Time and revert to Standard Time. It is Election Month and it’s a month of many community gatherings. Most of us prepare for rain, snow and winter storms. November is also a month that reminds us to be grateful which is so fundamental to our faith and Christian stewardship.

Joe, Lauren and Terri Adolfo decorate their vehicle with a Halloween-theme for the Trunk-or-Treat and are ready to receive children and give them candy.

I’m grateful for so much. I’m grateful for the recent Pastor’s Appreciation Lunch which was kindly dreamt up from Chef Joshua Santos. Thank you and thank you to Edwin Santos and the entire SPRC Team. What a wonderful celebration. I loved the homemade tortilla soup with onigiri! I’m also grateful for the Harvest Festival and the Trunk-or-Treat last month. Thank you to Susan Lee and Kim Furugori who came out to prepare such a wonderful event and did an abundant amount of preparation work. I also loved the costumes! What joy! 

Office Assistant Yuki Sofronas, Rev. Karen and Rev. Mia celebrate at the Harvest Festival.

This month, we express our gratitude for our saints, the witnesses to the Gospel who challenged us to find our own path to holiness. We continue to be grateful for the lives of all who have gone before us to meet the Lord, especially those we know and hold dear … our Issei, Nisei and some Sansei. We thank our veterans who have offered their lives on our behalf. And of course, in the United States, there is Thanksgiving Day, a holiday that is all about gratitude.

The month of November is an ideal time of the year to focus our spiritual lives more intently on being grateful for the blessings of our God. I challenge you to:

Pray with gratitude. 

Set aside some time for prayer each day. If you are new to the habit of daily prayer, find 10 minutes in your daily schedule. Pray as a family as well. And begin with a prayer of gratitude. 

Put gratitude into action. 

Do something at Blaine Memorial UMC or in your neighborhood to share your material blessings with those who might otherwise go hungry. Contribute to the Rainier Valley Food Bank or help deliver food to Tent City 3 or to the Kimball Elementary School families. 

Make gratitude a habit. 

Find ways to thank others for their generosity and kindness toward you every day. The late spiritual writer and theologian, Thomas Merton, once wrote that “to be grateful is to recognize the love of God in everything.” 

Let us use the month of November as an opportunity to grow in stewardship which, simply put, means living a life of gratitude. And as the psalmist encourages us to do: “O give thanks to the Lord for he is good; for his love endures forever” (Psalm 107:1).

It’s for this reason that our journey begins with stewardship. Keeping this moment in mind, the theme for the 2024 Stewardship Campaign is Together for Joy

Psalm 98 tells us to “Sing to God a new song, for God has done marvelous things. Let the floods clap their hands; let the hills sing together for joy.” Staying together through the delights and struggles of life — being “together for joy” — has never been more important. And while change brings financial challenges in its wake, it also brings fresh opportunities to sing to God a new song, for God has done — and will do — marvelous things.

Stewardship is the generational cornerstone of the Blaine Memorial United Methodist Church community. Without fail, those who grasp and practice the depth and joy of faithful stewardship have almost always learned it, not from a book or seminar, but from our faithful mentors — our beloved Issei and Nisei — who’ve paved the way for us. Those who’ve followed them: the Sansei, Yonsei, Gosei, Asian American and a variety of multiracial families that are a part of the Blaine family must continue to uphold their legacy and pave the way for generations to come.

November 5: All Saints Day

We will kick off our stewardship campaign while we celebrate All Saints Day. We will light candles for those who have departed and honor those in our community who have passed during this last year.

November 12: New Music!

We will look at all the ways we have found “new songs” to sing over the last couple of years: hybrid worship, the creative ways in which our Choir adapts with change, ways of continuing to serve the community, serving the vulnerable and isolated, speaking out for justice through education and action and so much more! This is who we are, and who we’ll continue to be and become. The church was made for times such as these — not times of ease and tranquility, but times of difficulty and struggle.

November 19: Dedication and Thanksgiving Sunday

We will conclude our Stewardship series, Together for Joy, by looking ahead to what the church will do in the year ahead. I invite you to bring your commitment cards to church and we will bless and consecrate them on Sunday, November 19. This is why all of us, as a community, ask each other to share our treasure and invest in our mission as a church. Now more than ever, your generosity can and will make an enormous difference. In a time of injustice and struggle, we are a community of love and justice. We are and can continue to be a community of gathering, a community of song, of new songs and new ways of singing, new ways of being God’s church for God’s world, together for joy! What kind of new song are you visioning? 

We are all a piece of that final tapestry for generations to come. When we give to others, we get back far more than what we originally gave. As you discern, please know our gratitude for your generosity, your faithfulness and your love. It’s your response to God’s gracious invitation that will make this next chapter our best one yet. Be the hope for generations to come!

Rev. Karen Yokota Love serves as the Senior Pastor of Blaine Memorial United Methodist Church.


Visit the Poinsettia page!

Orders are now open for Poinsettias on the Altar. Read more.


The Beacon is Now Available!

Read the latest issue of The Beacon newsletter, here!


November 2023 Calendar

Click on calendar to view the PDF.


Learn More
Twenty-Third Sunday after Pentecost  Comments Off on Twenty-Third Sunday after Pentecost 

Twenty-Third Sunday after Pentecost 

Posted by on Nov 5, 2023 in Blaine Youth Group, Church News & Events, Congregational Care, Giving, Innovation Hub, Miscellaneous, Pastors' Columns, Prayer, Sermons, Service Opportunities, Small Groups, Spiritual Formation, Sunday Worship, Weekly Calendar

Welcome!

  • All Saints Sunday 
  • November 5, 2023,
  • 10am • Hybrid Worship
  • Continue scrolling or view the print version of the bulletin

Order of Worship 

Prelude 
Draw Us in the Spirit’s Tether 
(Music: Harold Friedell, Words: Percy Dearmer)
Kathy Onishi
Welcome of Grace and Greeting 
Rev. Mia MiKyung Park
*Opening Hymn 
A Mighty Fortress Is Our God
(UMH #110, verses 1,2) 
Eugene and Kathy Onishi
*Call to Worship 
Rev. Karen Yokota Love 
*Hymn 
A Mighty Fortress Is Our God
(UMH #110, v.3-4) 
Eugene and Kathy Onishi
First Scripture Reading 
Matthew 23:1-12 (CEB, JLB)
Kaylee Yokoyama and Tsutomu Nagoya
Children’s Message 
Rev. Mia MiKyung Park 
The children are dismissed to the Ed. Wing.
Special Music 
They Shall Soar Like Eagles 
Words and Music by Laura Manzo
Eugene and Kathy Onishi, Leann Onishi, Lisa Hirayama, and Miriam Tong 
Prayers of the People 
Rev. Karen Yokota Love
Second Scripture Reading 
Matthew 6:20-31 (CEB, JLB)
Kaylee Yokoyama and Tsutomu Nagoya
Third Scripture Reading 
Hebrews 11:1-2 (NRSVUE)
Kaylee Yokoyama and Tsutomu Nagoya
Sermon
Gratitude for Our Saints 
Rev. Karen Yokota Love
Sermon
Gratitude for Our Saints 
Rev. Karen Yokota Love
Hymn of Response 
For All the Saints
(UMH #711, verses 1, 2, 4, 6) 
Eugene and Kathy Onishi
Holy Communion with The Reading of Our Saints 
Rev. Karen Yokota Love, Rev. Mia MiKyung Park, Shig Nishida and Gail Nomura
Introduction to the Offering 
Rev. Mia MiKyung Park
Doxology 
Praise God, from Whom All Blessings Flow Kathy Onishi
Prayer of Dedication 
Rev. Mia MiKyung Park
Announcements 
Rev. Karen Yokota Love
Closing Song 
Hymn of Promise (UMH #707) 
Eugene and Kathy Onishi
Benediction 
Rev. Karen Yokota Love
Postlude 
One God and Father of Us All
By P. Carlson, K. Matthews, J. Carraway 
Kathy Onishi
Zoom Breakout Room 
Rev. Dr. Jeney Park-Hearn

Reading of Our Saints on All Saints Day

From November 1, 2022 – October 31, 2023

Arthur Yorozu, September 26, 2022
Minoru Uchimura, October 19, 2022 
Atsu Sato, November 7, 2022
Tak Chikamura, November 17, 2022 
Kiyo Toda, November 26, 2022
Kevin Graham, February 10, 2023
George Kaminishi, February 14, 2023
Masa Hirano, February 25, 2023
Christine Yada, March 10, 2023
Bob Watanabe, March 14, 2023
Mary Maniwa, April 2023
Miyeko Mochizuki, April 9, 2023
June Sato, June 15, 2023
Connie Kobata, July 11, 2023
Shizue Watanabe, July 13, 2023
Tami Mitsui, July 13, 2023
Satoshi Yamamoto, July 17, 2023
Akemi Sanaye Kurushima, August 1, 2023

Sermon Questions

1. What saint in your life has had the greatest influence on your faith? 

2. It is common to think about “saints” as holier-than-thou and as the rare few. By virtue of our baptism, we are all called toward being saints. Do you think of yourself as called to be a saint? Why or why not? What difference would it make if you thought of yourself as a saint? 

3. What does it mean to be surrounded by a great cloud of witnesses?

Daily Lectionary Readings

Monday, November 6, 2023:
Semi-continuous: Psalm 128; Joshua 4:1-24; 1 Thessalonians 2:13-20
Complementary: Psalm 5; Jeremiah 5:18-31; 1 Thessalonians 2:13-20
Tuesday, November 7, 2023:
Semi-continuous: Psalm 128; Joshua 6:1-16, 20; Acts 13:1-12
Complementary: Psalm 5; Lamentations 2:13-17; Acts 13:1-12
Wednesday, November 8, 2023:
Semi-continuous: Psalm 128; Joshua 10:12-14; Matthew 15:1-9
Complementary: Psalm 5; Proverbs 16:21-33; Matthew 15:1-9
Thursday, November 9, 2023:
Semi-continuous: Psalm 78:1-7; Joshua 5:10-12; Revelation 8:6-9:12
Complementary: Psalm 70; Amos 1:1-2:5; Revelation 8:6-9:12
Friday, November 10, 2023:
Semi-continuous: Psalm 78:1-7; Joshua 8:30-35; Revelation 9:13-21
Complementary: Psalm 70; Amos 3:1-12; Revelation 9:13-21
Saturday, November 11, 2023:
Semi-continuous: Psalm 78:1-7; Joshua 20:1-9; Matthew 24:1-14
Complementary: Psalm 70; Amos 4:6-13; Matthew 24:1-14


Announcements

All Saints Sunday • Today

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

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

Poinsettias on the Altar • Order now through December 17, 2023

Advent season is here and it is time to sign up for poinsettias for the altar. You may dedicate a poinsettia in celebration of a person or an event, in memory of a loved one or to honor God’s glory. Poinsettias may be taken home after our Christmas Eve services. Each plant is $12.00. The deadline for Poinsettia Orders will be Sunday, December 17, 2023.

Download the order form here.

College Application Zoom Meeting • Saturday, Nov. 11, 7pm

College application season is upon us so if you are a parent of a current college applicant, a parent of a prospective applicant or someone with questions about the process, please join us for a panel discussion! All are welcome to join our Zoom meeting on Saturday, November 11th at 7pm PST. 

Our panel of parents and college students will be available to answer all your questions. We will begin with a brief presentation on a few key topics and then open the floor to questions. There are no trivial concerns so please bring all your questions, big or small. 

If you plan on attending the event or just want to send in a question, scan the QR code and fill out the form! E-mail any concerns about the event itself, here. Absolutely everyone is welcome so if you know anyone who would benefit from this discussion, feel free to invite them to our event. We hope to see you all there!

Check out the RSVP and Question Submission

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

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

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

Wednesday Meditation & Prayer • Nov. 8 at 9am

The Wednesday Prayer group continues to meet each week. Our time together consists of a check-in question centering around United Methodist Founder John Wesley’s famous question, “How is it with your soul?” Our time together continues with a few readings from The Upper Room Magazine September/October edition. Finally, we end our time together with a pastoral prayer. We hope you can join us!

For more information, contact the church office for details!

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

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

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

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


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Associate Pastor’s Spiritual Reflection Comments Off on Associate Pastor’s Spiritual Reflection

Associate Pastor’s Spiritual Reflection

Posted by on Oct 24, 2023 in Pastors' Columns, Prayer, Weekly Calendar

Rev. Mia and her family celebrated ChuSeok (Korean Thanksgiving) while watching a traditional Korean dance performance at McCaw Hall.

A Reflection on Rainy Days

By the Rev. Mia MiKyung Park

Coolness brings the refreshing essence of the season, with the changing colors of the leaves serving as a vivid reminder that we are truly in the midst of fall. The arrival of the rain deepens the season and stirs my emotions.

I have always had a deep affection for rain. During my childhood, rainy days held a special place in my heart. These were the days when my parents would finish their work in the fields earlier than usual and return home. I eagerly anticipated the delightful homemade snacks that my mother would prepare. She would be at home before my siblings and I returned from school. My excitement would escalate as the last school bell rang.

One memory that stands out is when my father surprised me by visiting my elementary school. That morning, I had forgotten to carry an umbrella in my backpack, even though rain was expected. My dad reminded me to take the umbrella, but I forgot. I distinctly remember sitting in class, gazing out of the window, and spotting my dad making his way towards my classroom, passing by the playground. (Back then, parents could visit their children’s classrooms without going through the administration office.) He returned home early, saw my umbrella sitting by the shoe rack, and didn’t bother to bring it to me.

Sometimes, I wondered if my parents truly loved us. They didn’t always express their love in words, but moments like my mother making homemade snacks even when she was tired and my father’s unspoken gesture with the umbrella were testaments to their deep and unspoken love. These are the moments that anchored my heart with the love and care of my parents.

However, after experiencing two dreadful floods that affected my parents and learning about the challenges faced by the homeless during bad weather, I began to struggle with my emotions on rainy days. It is heartbreaking to know that many people are not sheltered during challenging weather days.

I find myself caught between loving memories of my childhood and the heartache of reality. I become vulnerable once again. Such struggles never truly cease, I know. I will continue to grapple with them as I practice loving God and loving my neighbors as I love myself. Right before our children started school, all four of us fell ill one by one. I was the last to get sick, so I took care of the rest of the family. However, when I wasn’t feeling well, it was a significant struggle to look after everyone else.

What does God want me to do? What is the best way to love God and my neighbors as I love myself? I understand that it’s not just my challenges but everyone’s.

For the October Bible memorization in the Church School, we’ll be memorizing Matthew 22:37-39: “‘You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.’ This is the greatest and first commandment. And a second is like it: ‘You shall love your neighbor as yourself.’”

These words guide us on our journey to love and care for one another. Love is mysterious, and it only grows when we share it, but it will decrease if we don’t share. As we navigate the changing seasons and the seasons of life, let us remember God’s love and compassion for each and every one and God’s blessing upon us as a gateway of heavenly blessings through us. 

Our children, youth, and their parents at Blaine Memorial seem to be settling into their new schedules, and it’s a joy to hear about their weekly activities, which will strengthen them physically and intellectually. Our Church School and BYG are in full swing with lessons and activities that will help our children and youth grow spiritually. I am grateful to our Church School teachers and BYG Directors and Leaders for their dedicated work. A huge thanks to them and to you all for sharing your love whenever you can! Have a great October!

The Rev. Mia MiKyung Park serves as the Associate Pastor of Blaine Memorial United Methodist Church.


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