Prayer

Fifth Sunday after the Epiphany Comments Off on Fifth Sunday after the Epiphany

Fifth Sunday after the Epiphany

Posted by on Feb 4, 2024 in Blaine Youth Group, Church News & Events, Congregational Care, Innovation Hub, Pastors' Columns, Prayer, Sermons, Service Opportunities, Small Groups, Spiritual Formation, Sunday Worship, Weekly Calendar

All are Welcome!

  • Fifth Sunday of Epiphany, Holy Communion Sunday
  • February 4, 2024 • 10:00am
  • Hybrid Worship
  • Continue scrolling or view the print version of the bulletin

Prelude 
We Will Glorify the King of Kings
By Twila Paris
Kathy Onishi
Welcome of
Grace and Greeting 
Rev. Karen Yokota Love
*Call to Worship
By Hancock/Discipleship Ministries
Rev. Karen Yokota Love
*Opening Hymn 
O for a Thousand Tongues 
UMH #57 (1-3, 5) 
Kathy & Eugene Onishi
Opening Prayer 
Rev. Mia MiKyung Park
Scripture Reading 
Mark 1:29-39 (CEB) 
Tsutomu Nagoya and George Yates
Children’s Message 
Rev. Mia MiKyung Park
Special Music 
Lord of the Dance
Leann Onishi
Scripture Reading
Isaiah 40:21-31 (CEB) 
Tsutomu Nagoya and George Yates
Sermon
Restorative Healing
Rev. Karen Yokota Love
Hymn of Reflection 
Lord, We Come to Ask Your Blessing
(Verses 1, 3-4)
TFWS #2230
Kathy Onishi
Holy Communion
Rev. Karen Yokota Love
Rev. Mia MiKyung Park
Introduction to the Offering
Rev. Mia MiKyung Park
Doxology
Praise God, from Whom All Blessings Flow
UMH #94
Kathy Onishi
Prayer of Dedication
Rev. Mia MiKyung Park
Announcements
Rev. Karen and Friends
*Closing Hymn
We’ve a Story to Tell to the Nations
UMH #569
Kathy Onishi
*Benediction 
Rev. Karen Yokota Love 
*Postlude 
Jesus, Lover of My Soul 
By Parry/Carter
Kathy Onishi
Zoom Breakout Room 
Rev. Dr. Jeney Park-Hearn

Sermon Questions

  • What examples of miraculous healing have you seen or experienced?
  • What can you learn and apply to your own life from Jesus’ example of prayer?
  • What does it mean to “hope in the Lord”?
  • How can this impact your daily life? How can relying on God’s strength help you when facing challenges or temptations?

Daily Lectionary Readings

Sunday, February 4, 2024:
Fifth Sunday after the Epiphany
Isaiah 40:21-31; Psalm 147:1-11, 20c; 1 Corinthians 9:16-23;Mark 1:29-39
Monday, February 5, 2024: Psalm 102:12-28;
2 Kings 4:8-17, 32-37; Acts 14:1-7
Tuesday, February 6, 2024:
Psalm 102:12-28; 2 Kings 8:1-6; Acts 15:36-41
Wednesday, February 7, 2024:
Psalm 102:12-28; Job 6:1-13; Mark 3:7-12
Thursday, February 8, 2024:
Psalm 50:1-6; 1 Kings 11:26-40; 2 Corinthians 2:12-17
Friday, February 9, 2024:
Psalm 50:1-6; 1 Kings 14:1-18; 1 Timothy 1:12-20
Saturday, February 10, 2024:
Psalm 50:1-6; 1 Kings 16:1-7; Luke 19:41-44

Announcements

Snack Collection for Tent City 3 • Today!

Today, our Church School children are planning to make sandwiches, assemble snacks and drinks to create 80 lunch bags for residents at Tent City 3. Leave any individually packed snacks such as granola bars, cookies, dried fruit, etc., in the treasure box located in the Narthex until Sunday (2/4) before worship begins. Your generosity is greatly appreciated. Please contact Rev. Mia MiKyung Park with any questions.

RM Book Study Kickoff • Today!

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

Wednesday Meditation & Prayer • February 7 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!

Bob Ross Painting Night • Friday, February 16!

Join the Innovation Hub for an evening of fellowship, painting, and relaxing while we watch Bob Ross on Friday, February 16 from 7:00 – 9:00 PM in the Social Hall! We will provide some light snacks and beverages as well as painting supplies and materials! All are welcome. Scan the QR code or sign up here: https://forms.gle/5eLsmiRjoP3FFbaz6

Please email Lynne Onishi at lynneonishi@gmail.com with any questions. We can’t wait to see you there!

Last year at the Day of Remembrance Part II, members of Blaine Memorial UMC caravaned to the Northwest Detention Center in Tacoma, Wash. The solidarity with the Japanese American community and those who are in the NWDC link the past and present injustices, drew attention to worsening conditions inside NWDC. Photo by Ryan Kozu.

Day of Remembrance 2024 “Remember & Resist”

Sunday, February 18, 1:00 – 3:30 pm (One event at TWO sites)

Washington State Fairgrounds’ Agriplex
5th St SW, Puyallup, WA 98371
1:00 – 1:45pm
Northwest Detention Center
1623 E J Street, Tacoma, WA 98421
2:30 – 3:30 pm

Sign up here!

February 19, 2024 will mark 82 years since the signing of Executive Order 9066, ordering the forced removal and mass incarceration of Japanese Americans on the West Coast. Most Japanese Americans in the Seattle area spent their first few months in detention at the Puyallup Assembly Center, ironically nicknamed “Camp Harmony.” It’s now the site of the State fairgrounds.

The trauma of family separation, child imprisonment, poor sanitation, bad food, inadequate health care, and uncertain futures CONTINUES today at Northwest Detention Center (NWDC) in Tacoma, just a 20 minute drive from Puyallup. NWDC is a private prison with capacity to hold 1500 immigrants, but Immigration Customs Enforcement (ICE) is secretive and never disclose how many are incarcerated or who they are. We know most are from Mexico, Central & South America, Southeast Asia, India, Africa and the Middle East who seek asylum and opportunity in the US.

Conditions inside are horrific; detainees often hold long hunger strikes demanding humane treatment and their legal rights. There were 7 last year and another in January. This private for profit prison in our state must shut down.

Join us to hear from incarceration survivors at both Puyallup and Tacoma – Japanese American camp survivors and people recently detained at NWDC. There will be Taiko! When we raise the roof with drums and voices, those held inside know they are not forgotten.

Please come to both parts of this important event – we will remember our past AND speak out for the rights of others.

Organized by Tsuru for Solidarity, La Resistencia, Puyallup and Seattle chapters of the JACL, Minidoka Pilgrimage Planning Committee, and Densho. For more information, media inquiries, and to find out about volunteer opportunities email info@seattlejacl.org.

Sukiyaki Dinner Returns!

Saturday, March 2, 2024 • Blaine Memorial UMC

More information to come!

Afghanistan and Ukranian Refugee Donation Ministry

At this time, needed items include women’s products, toothpaste, personal care items, rice cookers, blenders, mixing bowls, microwave ovens, toasters, mixers, irons, dish sets, towels, and blankets. No to clothes or toys.

Blaine Memorial UMC Collection Hours: Tuesday-Friday between 10:00AM-4:00PM. Call the Church Office at (206) 723-1536 prior to dropping off your items.

South King County Response Center Collection Volunteer Hours: Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays from 10:00AM-2:00PM, same time as the Tukwila Pantry at 3118 S. 140th St. Seattle. Please text Kim Parks at (206) 683-1707 when you would like to help. Please wear a mask and bring a marking pen and measuring tape if possible. Other Questions? Please contact Donna Sekijima at: donnasek@outlook.com and/or Anne Arakaki-Lock at: salock@comcast.net.

The Beacon is now available!

View the Jan-Feb 2024 Calendar

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Spiritual Formation Center Comments Off on Spiritual Formation Center

Spiritual Formation Center

Posted by on Jan 29, 2024 in Church News & Events, Congregational Care, Prayer, Spiritual Formation, Weekly Calendar

In 2024, what are spiritual practices will you implement that improve faith?

This year, nothing is wasted

By Anne Arakaki-Lock

“Nothing is wasted with God.” 

I know you’ve heard this somewhere, so I can’t take credit for it. 

Every moment of our past, including mine – the unfinished projects, criticisms, rejections, wins and losses – led me to where I am this January 2024. It’s a powerful belief that I’m going to try to remember as I start off this new year. You see, I reviewed my 2023 resolutions and realized that I had not achieved all my goals. I also ruminated over rough spots I experienced, including losses, sadness, and illness. There were promises I made to people that I have yet to fulfill. How easily I can disappoint myself and others. Say and do the “wrong” thing. 

But instead of getting down on myself, I am going to ask God for forgiveness where it’s due, then accept things just where they are. I don’t like having anxiety, fears, and regrets. I’ve been gifted a new year, a new dawn as I walk alongside Jesus on my journey. 

My pain, the skeletons, my woes, along with all the good stuff from this past year and beyond, have led me to where I am now. I know that all of this can lead me to that deep, perfect plan that God has for me. In fact, I trust that God’s plan for all my kids, my husband, and friends, for all of creation, for all of you readers, is perfect. 

I am so incredibly thankful for God’s grace, His faithfulness and willingness to take on my brokenness for me to be transformed and reborn with a deeper understanding of love and joy. It feels good to start off my new year again knowing this. I pray, Holy Spirit, that you etch this acceptance on my heart. 

“I have said these things to you, that in me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world.” John 16:33.

Anne Arakaki-Lock serves as a member of Blaine Memorial UMC’s Congregational Care Ministry.

Lectionary Epiphany

Second Sunday after the Epiphany 
January 14, 2024 
1 Samuel 3:1-10, (11-20) Psalm 139:1-6, 13-18, 1 Corinthians 6:12-20, John 1:43-51
Third Sunday after the Epiphany 
January 21, 2024 
Jonah 3:1-5, 10 Psalm 62:5-12, 1 Corinthians 7:29-31, Mark 1:14-20
Fourth Sunday after the Epiphany 
January 28, 2024   
Deuteronomy 18:15-20, Psalm 111, 1 Corinthians 8:1-13, Mark 1:21-28
Presentation of the Lord 
February 2, 2024 
Malachi 3:1-4, Psalm 84 or Psalm 24:7-10, Hebrews 2:14-18, Luke 2:22-40
Fifth Sunday after the Epiphany 
February 4, 2024 
Isaiah 40:21-31, Psalm 147:1-11, 20c, 1 Corinthians 9:16-23, Mark 1:29-39
Transfiguration Sunday 
February 11, 2024 (Last Sunday before Lent) 
2 Kings 2:1-12, Psalm 50:1-6, 2 Corinthians 4:3-6, Mark 9:2-9

The Beacon is now available!

View the Jan-Feb 2024 Calendar

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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 Jan 29, 2024 in Church News & Events, Congregational Care, Pastors' Columns, Prayer, Spiritual Formation, Weekly Calendar

The Rev. John Go, Gloria, Grace, and the Rev. Mia MiKyung Park

Let Me be Full, Let Me be Empty!

By the Rev. Mia MiKyung Park

As we approach the farewell to 2023 and usher in the new year of 2024, the words of John Wesley’s Covenant Prayer echo in my mind.

“I am no longer my own, but yours. Put me to what you will, place me with whom you will. Put me to doing, put me to suffering. Let me be put to work for you or set aside for you. Praised for you or criticized for you. Let me be full, let me be empty. Let me have all things, let me have nothing. I freely and fully surrender all things to your glory and service. And now, O wonderful and holy God, Creator, Redeemer, and Sustainer, you are mine, and I am yours. So be it. And the covenant which I have made on earth, let it also be made in heaven. Amen.”

Derived from the Puritan tradition, this John Wesley’s Covenant Prayer is traditionally recited during Watch Night services, signifying a moment of remembrance and the renewal of the baptismal covenant. It encapsulates the essence of the Jesus way – a path of self-giving and self-emptying love, acknowledging our complete dependence on God in our faith journey.

Typically, each member of my family establishes three to four resolutions every year and shares them as we sit together after breakfast on New Year’s Day. Additionally, we review the previous year’s resolutions. The year 2023 has been one of personal and spiritual growth for me, and I am deeply grateful for the experiences and lessons it has brought. Also, 2023 has been a juxtaposed year; as much as I experienced and was challenged to find internal peace, the world has been in deep chaos and disturbance from wars, conflicts, disasters, etc. In these juxtaposed times, I am grounded in the words from Jesus in John 14:27: “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.”

Looking forward to 2024, my primary resolution is to embrace a simpler life, one that resonates with the principles embedded in John Wesley’s Covenant Prayer. Simplicity is not just about decluttering physical spaces but extends to decluttering the mind and heart, focusing on what truly matters in life. In a world often defined by materialism and constant busyness, simplicity becomes a counter-cultural choice. It involves intentionally choosing a life that is less about accumulating possessions and more about cultivating meaningful connections, both with others and with the divine. What truly matters in my life, and how can I align my actions with these values? It might mean letting go of unnecessary commitments, decluttering spaces that no longer serve a purpose, and prioritizing activities and relationships that bring joy, growth, richness, and fulfillment.

Also, simplicity relates to the wisdom and reflection of saying ‘no.’ In a society that glorifies busyness and productivity, the ability to decline unnecessary obligations becomes a powerful act of self-care. By recognizing my limitations and setting boundaries, I want to create space for what truly enriches my life in which “I am no longer mine but thine.”

Furthermore, embracing simplicity invites a deepened spiritual awareness. It encourages a closer connection with the divine, slowing down, being mindful of the present moment, here and now, and finding gratitude in the simple pleasures of life.

As I embark on this journey towards a simpler life in 2024, I am mindful of the challenges that may arise. However, the foundation laid by John Wesley’s Covenant Prayer reminds me of the transformative power of surrender and trust in God’s grace and leaning on God’s faithfulness and goodness. The memorization of Church School in January is Jeremiah 33:3: “Call to me, and I will answer you and will tell you great and hidden things that you have not known.”

As we step into the unknown of 2024, let us be open and mindful of the great and hidden things that God will show us and does within and amongst us. May the coming year be a journey of self-discovery, spiritual growth, and a deepened relationship with God and our loved ones. Wishing you a blessed and abundant new year!

The Rev. Mia MiKyung Park serves as the Associate Pastor of Blaine Memorial UMC.

The Beacon is now available!

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BYG Update Comments Off on BYG Update

BYG Update

Posted by on Jan 29, 2024 in Blaine Youth Group, Church News & Events, Prayer, Service Opportunities, Small Groups, Spiritual Formation, Weekly Calendar

BYG made and delivered spaghetti for Tent City 3. TC3 is located a block away from Blaine Memorial UMC.

BYG Ministry in ‘23 sets up impact for ‘24

By Kaylee Yokoyama

At this time of year we are all setting New Year resolutions by reflecting on the past year. As we reflect on BYG, this past year, BYG has engaged in various events and activities throughout 2023. 

We started off the year by fundraising through candle making. This was a time where the youth came together and taught one another how to make a candle. Also, BYG was fortunate enough to establish a relationship with Tent City 3. Throughout the year, BYG served food to Tent City 3 on multiple occasions, especially during times of need. The youth were able to support Tent City 3 through making blankets during the winter. Additionally, BYG was able to bring back many popular events such as overnighters and serving Easter breakfast. This is a time for youth and leaders to gather and spend time reflecting and have fun! 

BYG organized another Bake Sale to raise funds for Jr. High Camp and Asian Camp.

In the summer, we were able to send our youth to Junior High Camp and Asian Camp (a total of 15 youth!). Youth worked diligently to fund-raise for camping ministries through various activities. These included bake sales, candle making, and volunteering their time at receptions. Also during this time, our youth volunteered as leaders for VBS. It was amazing to see the youth grow from campers into stepping into these important leadership roles (WOW! Time flies!). 

BYG had a White Elephant gift exchange at a BYG Christmas party overnighter. Everyone had a marvelous time!

As we transitioned into Autumn, we brought back the Youth Booth for Bazaar. Some of our younger youth, who have never experienced working in the Youth booth, learned how to make their first Suno Dog! Transitioning to November, we participated in the famous Thanksgiving service project. Our youth made mashed potatoes and apple crisps by hand, for a total of 24 Kimball families! 

Finally, ending the year, our youth volunteered to participate in the various Christmas festivities at church. This included roles in the Christmas play and music ministries. Youth dedicated their time to showcase their performing talents for the congregation. We cannot thank the youth enough for all the talent they brought to us in the month of December. 

BYG constructed the Twelve Days of Christmas signs to accompany the Blaine Ukulele Group of Seattle’s musical performance for Christmas Music Sunday. The beautiful art work is designed by Ally S.

We have done so much this year! BYG thanks you for your continued support. Without congregational support, BYG would not be able to do all we have done. We look forward to this upcoming year, where we can continually showcase our talents and remain involved in the church community! 

Continue to check the church calendar and BYG weekly updates for events! 

BYG meets on Sundays at 10:00 AM. We will gather in the Sanctuary for the beginning of worship service before transitioning over to the Nishida Room for BYG time after the children’s message. Blaine Youth Group (BYG) is a place where youth (6th-12th grade) are invited into a loving community and celebrated as they are. 

BYG provides a safe environment for youth to build lasting friendships, grow spiritually, learn acceptance of self and others, express compassion for the world, and develop a love for God. BYG has a space for any person who is interested and all are welcome. 

Contact Information

Director of Youth Ministry:

Lynne Onishi

lynneonishi@gmail.com

Associate Directors of Youth Ministry:

Kai Yamamoto and Kaylee Yokoyama

kai.yamamo@gmail.com, kaylee.yokoyama1@gmail.com

The Beacon is now available!

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Senior Pastor Reflection Comments Off on Senior Pastor Reflection

Senior Pastor Reflection

Posted by on Jan 29, 2024 in Blaine Youth Group, Church News & Events, Pastors' Columns, Prayer, Sermons, Service Opportunities, Small Groups, Spiritual Formation, Weekly Calendar

The Blaine Memorial Staff celebrates Christmas with a surprise visit from Santa Claus after the Children’s Play.

Happy New Year: Arise and Shine!

By the Rev. Karen Yokota Love

Happy New Year, Beloved Community! Another year passed and a new year is in front of us. We concluded the Christmas season with the feast of Epiphany, a celebration of God’s glory revealed in the person of Jesus Christ. Isaiah, often referred to as the “prophet of hope,” invites us to “Arise and Shine.” What an invitation and command to hear, especially, as we start a new year! Thank you, Blaine, for a wonderful Christmas season. It was lovely to celebrate the season together with our full-fledged ministries on fire! 

Individually and collectively, we are called to arise and awaken spiritually from the slumber of complacency and the darkness of sin. We are called to open our eyes to God’s truth, God’s presence, and God’s guidance, lifting our eyes to see and experience the glory of the Lord.

Much like the wise people from the East, we are invited to follow the guiding light — moments of inspiration, encounters with wisdom, and signs of grace. Like the magi, we are invited on a spiritual journey, to offer our best talents, resources, time, and, most importantly, our hearts to God.

We are not who we were before the pandemic. We are not who we were even six months ago. To look to our past organization as a guide for the future would be a mistake; like putting new wine into old wineskins. Instead, as we continue the process of adaptive change as a community of faith, we become stronger, healthier, and better able to say “yes” to the life-giving ministries we are called to, and “no” to those things that suck the energy of the congregation without positive effect. Sometimes, these changes feel like they’re slower than molasses, and sometimes it feels as if they have been sprung upon us with no warning. As we look to a new year, we’ll continue to navigate new changes and new ministry offerings at Blaine Memorial.

The Young Adults gathered to have a Merry Swiftmas and celebrate Taylor Swift’s concert movie, “The Eras Tour”.

As we move into the new year, and feel the forward motion in our individual lives, I ask that you pray regularly and sincerely for the health and future of Blaine Memorial UMC. Pray for our Leadership Team. Pray for the new people finding their way into this congregation. Pray for the staff. Pray for me. Pray with joy and with concern. This is a beautiful and vigorous congregation, and I am absolutely inspired about our life together moving forward in 2024! It’s not always easy, but it is indeed always good. Just like God is always creating something new, so we, too, are renewed. Thanks be to God! 

Blessings to you all,

Rev. Karen

The Beacon is now available!

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

Fourth Sunday of Epiphany, 120th Anniversary Sunday

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

All are Welcome!

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

Order of Worship

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

Daily Lectionary Readings

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

Announcements

Wednesday Meditation & Prayer • January 31 at 9am

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

RM Book Study Kickoff – Sunday, February 4

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

Last year at the Day of Remembrance Part II, members of Blaine Memorial UMC caravaned to the Northwest Detention Center in Tacoma, Wash. The solidarity with the Japanese American community and those who are in the NWDC link the past and present injustices, drew attention to worsening conditions inside NWDC. Photo by Ryan Kozu.

Day of Remembrance 2024 “Remember & Resist”

Sunday, February 18, 1:00 – 3:30 pm (One event at TWO sites)

Washington State Fairgrounds’ Agriplex
5th St SW, Puyallup, WA 98371
1:00 – 1:45pm
Northwest Detention Center
1623 E J Street, Tacoma, WA 98421
2:30 – 3:30 pm

February 19, 2024 will mark 82 years since the signing of Executive Order 9066, ordering the forced removal and mass incarceration of Japanese Americans on the West Coast. Most Japanese Americans in the Seattle area spent their first few months in detention at the Puyallup Assembly Center, ironically nicknamed “Camp Harmony.” It’s now the site of the State fairgrounds.

The trauma of family separation, child imprisonment, poor sanitation, bad food, inadequate health care, and uncertain futures CONTINUES today at Northwest Detention Center (NWDC) in Tacoma, just a 20 minute drive from Puyallup. NWDC is a private prison with capacity to hold 1500 immigrants, but Immigration Customs Enforcement (ICE) is secretive and never disclose how many are incarcerated or who they are. We know most are from Mexico, Central & South America, Southeast Asia, India, Africa and the Middle East who seek asylum and opportunity in the US.

Conditions inside are horrific; detainees often hold long hunger strikes demanding humane treatment and their legal rights. There were 7 last year and another in January. This private for profit prison in our state must shut down.

Join us to hear from incarceration survivors at both Puyallup and Tacoma – Japanese American camp survivors and people recently detained at NWDC. There will be Taiko! When we raise the roof with drums and voices, those held inside know they are not forgotten.

Please come to both parts of this important event – we will remember our past AND speak out for the rights of others.

Organized by Tsuru for Solidarity, La Resistencia, Puyallup and Seattle chapters of the JACL, Minidoka Pilgrimage Planning Committee, and Densho. For more information, media inquiries, and to find out about volunteer opportunities email info@seattlejacl.org.

Sukiyaki Dinner Returns!

Saturday, March 2, 2024 • Blaine Memorial UMC

More information to come!

Afghanistan and Ukranian Refugee Donation Ministry

At this time, needed items include women’s products, toothpaste, personal care items, rice cookers, blenders, mixing bowls, microwave ovens, toasters, mixers, irons, dish sets, towels, and blankets. No to clothes or toys.

Blaine Memorial UMC Collection Hours: Tuesday-Friday between 10:00AM-4:00PM. Call the Church Office at (206) 723-1536 prior to dropping off your items.

South King County Response Center Collection Volunteer Hours: Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays from 10:00AM-2:00PM, same time as the Tukwila Pantry at 3118 S. 140th St. Seattle. Please text Kim Parks at (206) 683-1707 when you would like to help. Please wear a mask and bring a marking pen and measuring tape if possible. Other Questions? Please contact Donna Sekijima at: donnasek@outlook.com and/or Anne Arakaki-Lock at: salock@comcast.net.

The Beacon is now available!

View the Jan-Feb 2024 Calendar

Learn More