Prayer

Ninth Sunday after Pentecost Comments Off on Ninth Sunday after Pentecost

Ninth Sunday after Pentecost

Posted by on Jul 21, 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!

  • Ninth Sunday after Pentecost
  • July 21, 2024
  • 10:00am
  • Hybrid Worship
  • Continue scrolling or view the PDF

Order of Worship

Prelude
Jesus Be Praised
Handt Hanson; piano adapt. by Henry Wiens
Kathy Onishi Onishi
Welcome of Grace and Greeting
Rev. Karen Yokota Love
*Call to Worship
Written by Dr. Lisa Hancock, Discipleship Ministries, May 2024
Rev. Karen Yokota Love
*Opening Hymn
Come Holy Spirit (TFWS #2125)
Kathy and Eugene Onishi
Opening Prayer
Howard Nakase
Scripture Reading
Mark 6:30-34, 53-56 (CEB)
Tsutomu Nagoya, Howard Nakase
Children’s Message
Stephen “JiJi” Sumida
Prayers of the People
Rev. Karen Yokota Love
Second Scripture Reading
Luke 8:40-56 (CEB)
Tsutomu Nagoya, Howard Nakase
Sermon
Holy Interruptions
Tigard UMC Youth Group
Hymn of Reflection
Together We Serve
(TFWS #2175)
Kathy and Eugene Onishi
Introduction to the Offering
Howard Nakase
*Doxology
Praise God, from Whom All Blessings Flow
(UMH #94)
Kathy Onishi
Prayer of Dedication
Howard Nakase
Announcements
Rev. Karen Yokota Love and Friends
*Closing Hymn
The Summons
(TFWS #2130)
Kathy and Eugene Onishi
*Benediction
Rev. Karen Yokota Love
Postlude
Across the Lands
Keith Getty and Stuart Townend
Kathy Onishi

Sermon Questions

  • We sometimes get so focused on our “work” that we can miss God’s attempt to interrupt us. Why do you think it’s our tendency to do so?
  • Have you ever experienced a moment in your life that was a “Holy Interruption?” What was that experience like? What did you learn from it?
  • What would help you be more aware of God’s presence in the world?

Daily Lectionary

Sunday, July 21, 2024
2 Samuel 7:1-14a and Psalm 89:20-37; Jeremiah 23:1-6 and Psalm 23; Ephesians 2:11-22; Mark 6:30-34, 53-56
Monday, July 22, 2024
Semi-continuous: Psalm 61; 2 Samuel 7:18-29; Hebrews 13:17-25; Complementary: Psalm 100; Jeremiah 50:1-7; Hebrews 13:17-25
Tuesday, July 23, 2024
Semi-continuous: Psalm 61; 2 Samuel 8:1-18; Acts 20:17-38; Complementary: Psalm 100; Zechariah 9:14-10:2; Acts 20:17-38
Wednesday, July 24, 2024
Semi-continuous: Psalm 61; 2 Samuel 9:1-13; Luke 15:1-7; Complementary: Psalm 100; 2 Samuel 5:1-12; Luke 15:1-7
Thursday, July 25, 2024
Semi-continuous: Psalm 14; 2 Samuel 10:1-5; Colossians 1:9-14; Complementary: Psalm 145:10-18; 1 Kings 19:19-21; Colossians 1:9-14
Friday, July 26, 2024
Semi-continuous: Psalm 14; 2 Samuel 10:6-12; Colossians 3:12-17; Complementary: Psalm 145:10-18; 2 Kings 3:4-20; Colossians 3:12-17
Saturday, July 27, 2024
Semi-continuous: Psalm 14; 2 Samuel 10:13-19; John 4:31-38; Complementary: Psalm 145:10-18; 2 Kings 4:38-41; John 4:31-38

Announcements

BYG Merch Presale • Now to Aug. 10

Thank you for supporting BYG’s Camping Ministries! We will be taking presale orders for our new sweatshirts, caps, and tote bags (and T-shirts) until Sunday, August 11th at 11:59pm.

  • T-Shirts are $30 each
  • Hoodies are $40 each
  • Caps are $30 each
  • Tote bags are $25 each

Pre-order here!

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.

Vacation Bible School 2024 • Four Sundays Save these Sunday dates for VBS!

  • July 28
  • August 4
  • August 11
  • August 18

Theme: Operation Restoration – Mending God’s World Time: 10 am to 12 pm, including lunch.

Registration: $20 per Sunday per child. Location: Blaine Memorial Church School Classroom.

Email: blainevbs@gmail.com to enroll now!

Register here!

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 Beacon!

July 2024 Calendar

Learn More
A Call for Prayer, Peace Comments Off on A Call for Prayer, Peace

A Call for Prayer, Peace

Posted by on Jul 14, 2024 in Prayer

A call for prayer, peace in our current political landscape

By the Rev. Karen Yokota Love

I was shocked and sad to hear about the assassination attempt on former President Trump’s life yesterday. I invite you to join me in prayer:

  • For former President Trump, not only for his physically recovery, but for the emotional and mental impact of this assassination attempt
  • For the bystander who was killed and others who were injured
  • For the shooter’s family, and all who were present or who will be traumatized by this event
  • We also must pray for President Biden and both Democrats and Republicans as they respond to this tragedy.
  • Prayers are lifted up for all who were and are victims of gun violence. Violence in any form is deplorable and must be condemned.
  • I ask you to join with me in praying for our nation as we, the body of Christ, continue to work towards peace and reconciliation.

We are divided as a country. The extreme ends of the political polarization we find ourselves stuck in, with its unhealthy rhetoric resulting in a quagmire of acrimony and finger-pointing, support this division at a time when unity is needed.

We must strive to treat one another with dignity and respect. We must continue to be the hands and feet of Christ as we walk together to love, hope for a better future, and spread peace for a better world.

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

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

Eighth Sunday after Pentecost

Posted by on Jul 14, 2024 in Blaine Youth Group, Church News & Events, Congregational Care, Giving, Innovation Hub, Prayer, Sermons, Service Opportunities, Small Groups, Spiritual Formation, Sunday Worship

All are Welcome!

  • Eighth Sunday after Pentecost
  • July 14, 2024
  • 10:00am, Hybrid Worship
  • Continue scrolling or view the PDF

Order of Worship

Prelude
We Will Glorify
(Twila Parks)
Kathy Onishi
Welcome of Grace and Greeting
Anne Arakaki-Lock
*Call to Worship
Written by Dr. Lisa Hancock, Discipleship Ministries, May 2024
Anne Arakaki-Lock
*Opening Hymn
Holy Ground (TFWS #2272)
Kathy and Eugene Onishi
Opening Prayer
George Yates
Scripture Reading
Ephesians 1:3-14 (CEB)
Tsutomu Nagoya George Yates
Children’s Message
Sai Hanaoka
Second Scripture Reading
Philippians 4:4-9
Tsutomu Nagoya, George Yates
Faith Journey Message
My Journey with God
Anne Arakaki-Lock
Hymn of Reflection
Change My Heart, O God Kathy Onishi
(TFWS #2152)
Eugene Onishi
Introduction to the Offering
George Yates
*Doxology
Praise God, from Whom All Blessings Flow
(UMH #94)
Kathy Onishi
Prayer of Dedication
George Yates
Announcements
George Yates and Friends
*Closing Hymn
I Surrender All
(UMH 354)
Kathy and Eugene Onishi
*Benediction
Anne Arakaki-Lock
Postlude
Lamb of God
(Twila Parks)
Kathy Onishi
Zoom Breakout Room
Dale Kaneko

Today’s flowers are provided by Anne Arakaki-Lock

Sermon Questions

When and why do we gather together to worship?
What is the formula for not being anxious? What can we do to practice?
Did you know that you were chosen by God to be God’s child? Therefore, did you know that you receive God’s inheritance? Knowing this, what would your relationship be to Jesus?

Daily Lectionary

Sunday, July 14, 2024
2 Samuel 6:1-5, 12b-19 and Psalm 24; Amos 7:7-15 and Psalm 85:8-13; Ephesians 1:3-14; Mark 6:14-29
Monday, July 15, 2024
Semi-continuous: Psalm 68:24-35; 2 Samuel 6:6-12a; Acts 21:27-39 Complementary: Psalm 142; Amos 5:1-9; Acts 21:27-39
Tuesday, July 16, 2024
Semi-continuous: Psalm 68:24-35; 2 Samuel 3:12-16; Acts 23:12-35 Complementary: Psalm 142; Amos 9:1-4; Acts 23:12-35
Wednesday, July 17, 2024
Semi-continuous: Psalm 68:24-35; 2 Samuel 6:16-23; Luke 7:31-35 Complementary: Psalm 142; Amos 9:11-15; Luke 7:31-35
Thursday, July 18, 2024
Semi-continuous: Psalm 89:20-37; 1 Chronicles 11:15-19; Colossians 1:15-23 Complementary: Psalm 23; Jeremiah 10:1-16; Colossians 1:15-23
Friday, July 19, 2024
Semi-continuous: Psalm 89:20-37; 1 Chronicles 14:1-2; Acts 17:16-31 Complementary: Psalm 23; Jeremiah 10:17-25; Acts 17:16-31
Saturday, July 20, 2024
Semi-continuous: Psalm 89:20-37; 1 Chronicles 15:1-2, 16:4-13; Luke 18:35-43 Complementary: Psalm 23; Jeremiah 12:1-13; Luke 18:35-43

Announcements

BYG Merch Presale • Now to Aug. 10

Thank you for supporting BYG’s Camping Ministries! We will be taking presale orders for our new sweatshirts, caps, and tote bags (and T-shirts) until Sunday, August 11th at 11:59pm.

  • T-Shirts are $30 each
  • Hoodies are $40 each
  • Caps are $30 each
  • Tote bags are $25 each

Pre-order here!

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.

Vacation Bible School 2024 • Four Sundays Save these Sunday dates for VBS!

  • July 28
  • August 4
  • August 11
  • August 18

Theme: Operation Restoration – Mending God’s World Time: 10 am to 12 pm, including lunch.

Registration: $20 per Sunday per child. Location: Blaine Memorial Church School Classroom.

Email: blainevbs@gmail.com to enroll now!

Register here!

Everyone smiles for a whole Asian Camp photo in the camp T-shirt!

Blaine Memorial Church School and Blaine Youth Group Summer Schedule

July 13-20, 2024 (incuding travel time)
• Asian Camp at Camp Gilmore (Incoming 10th – 2nd year college)

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 Beacon!

July 2024 Calendar

Learn More
Spiritual Formation Center Comments Off on Spiritual Formation Center

Spiritual Formation Center

Posted by on Jul 8, 2024 in Congregational Care, Prayer, Spiritual Formation, Weekly Calendar

With continuing changes within our Church, our Denomination, and in our lives – what will the next chapter be for Blaine Memorial UMC?

Spiritual Formation Center

What is God’s will during times of change?

By Anne Arakaki-Lock

“Doing God’s will sometimes means waiting patiently. While we wait, we can love God, serve others, and tell others about him.”

Theme of Psalm of David 40

Our “Operations Manual,” the Bible, suggests that we don’t just hold our breaths waiting or sitting idly after praying to God about what His will is for us. Whether we pray for direction for our own personal lives or collectively for the Church, the guidelines are the same. Most importantly we are actively seeking our Lord. God’s greatest desire is to be in relationship with each of us.

I am convinced that only by working on being in God’s presence, trying to listen for his voice and being in conversation with him, can I know what he wants me to do for him. I remember distinctly that about ten years ago, I had just spent nearly a year in Hawaii after retiring in 2013, taking care of my mom.  When I was done with that phase of my life and was returning to Seattle, I prayed (showing God my love) and asked what he wanted me to do next for him. I remember coming back that Memorial Day weekend and the very next day I had been asked to sit on a panel (serving others)  in one of my daughter’s friends classes. The topic was about business plans, a topic far removed from what I currently do.  I sat on the panel next to a gentleman from R.E.S.T. – Real Escape from the Sex Trade. One thing lead to another.

I received intense training and soon was volunteering at King County Juvenile Detention Center around issues of trafficking. It was a quick reply from God giving me a new direction to serve. Soon, added to that was an invitation to be a volunteer chaplain (telling others about God) at Echo Glen Treatment Center for Children, the long term facility for incarcerated youth offenders. I believe all of this is God’s will for me. In the same way, I will be praying for what the will of God is for Blaine Memorial UMC, moving into what feels like a new era. We made it through tough years of the pandemic, our pastoral staffing has changed, we are going through a significant generational change that impacts our culture. Our financial health has also changed. We pray that God show us his will for Blaine.

Anne Arakaki-Lock is a member of Blaine Memorial UMC.

Lectionary Readings

Seventh Sunday after Pentecost
July 7, 2024
Samuel 5:1-5, 9-10 • Psalm 48 • Ezekiel 2:1-5 Psalm 123 • 2 Corinthians 12:2-10 • Mark 6:1-13 Eighth Sunday after Pentecost
July 14, 2024
Samuel 6:1-5, 12b-19 • Psalm 24 • Amos 7:7-15 Psalm 85:8-13 • Ephesians 1:3-14 • Mark 6:14-29 Ninth Sunday after Pentecost
July 21, 2024
Samuel 7:1-14a • Psalm 89:20-37 • Jeremiah 23:1-6 Psalm 23 • Ephesians 2:11-22 • Mark 6:30-34, 53-56 Tenth Sunday after Pentecost
July 28, 2024
Samuel 11:1-15 • Psalm 14 • 2 Kings 4:42-44 Psalm 145:10-18 • Ephesians 3:14-21 • John 6:1-21

Announcements

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.

Vacation Bible School 2024 • Four Sundays Save these Sunday dates for VBS!

  • July 28
  • August 4
  • August 11
  • August 18

Theme: Operation Restoration – Mending God’s World Time: 10 am to 12 pm, including lunch.

Registration: $20 per Sunday per child. Location: Blaine Memorial Church School Classroom.

Email: blainevbs@gmail.com to enroll now!

Register here!

Everyone smiles for a whole Asian Camp photo in the camp T-shirt!

Blaine Memorial Church School and Blaine Youth Group Summer Schedule

July 13-20, 2024 (incuding travel time)
• Asian Camp at Camp Gilmore (Incoming 10th – 2nd year college)

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 Beacon!

July 2023 Calendar

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

Seventh Sunday after Pentecost

Posted by on Jul 7, 2024 in Blaine Youth Group, Church News & Events, Congregational Care, Giving, Innovation Hub, Prayer, Sermons, Service Opportunities, Small Groups, Spiritual Formation, Sunday Worship

All are Welcome!

  • Seventh Sunday after Pentecost
  • July 7, 2024
  • 10:00am, Hybrid Worship
  • Continue scrolling or view the PDF

Order of Worship

Prelude
From the Rising of the Sun
Anon
Kathy Onishi
Welcome of Grace and Greeting
Rev. Karen Yokota Love
*Call to Worship
Jesse Love
*Opening Hymn
Lord Whose Love Through Humble Service
(UMH #581)
Kathy and Eugene Onishi
Opening Prayer
Jesse Love
Scripture Reading
Mark 6:1-13 (CEB)
Tsutomu Nagoya, Jesse Love
Children’s Message
Sai Hanaoka
Commissioning of Asian Camp Campers and Chaperones
Rev. Karen Yokota Love
Second Scripture Reading
2 Corinthians 12:2-10
Tsutomu Nagoya, Jesse Love
Sermon
Hometown Boy
Rev. Karen Yokota Love
Prayers of the People
Rev. Karen Yokota Love
Hymn of Reflection
Let Us Break Bread Together
(UMH #618)
Kathy and Eugene Onishi
Holy Communion
Rev. Karen Yokota Love, Eugene Onishi
Introduction to the Offering
Jesse Love
*Doxology
Praise God, from Whom All Blessings Flow
(UMH #94)
Kathy Onishi
Prayer of Dedication
Jesse Love
Announcements
Rev. Karen and Friends
*Closing Hymn
The Spirit Sends Forth to Serve
(TFWS #2241)
Kathy & Eugene Onishi
*Benediction
Rev. Karen Yokota Love
Postlude
Alleluia
Finston O’Carroll and Christopher Walker
Kathy Onishi
Zoom Breakout Room
Dale Kaneko

Sermon Questions

  • How does our lack of faith affect the way God works?
  • What kind of baggage gets in your way of you experiencing God’s miraculous work in your life?
  • What baggage do you carry that keeps you from experiencing God’s power?

Daily Lectionary

Sunday, July 7, 2024:
2 Samuel 5:1-5, 9-10 and Psalm 48; Ezekiel 2:1-5 and Psalm 123; 2 Corinthians 12:2-10; Mark 6:1-13
Monday, July 8, 2024:
Semi-continuous: Psalm 21; 2 Samuel 5:1-10; 2 Corinthians 11:16-33
Complementary: Psalm 119:81-88; Ezekiel 2:8-3:11; 2 Corinthians 11:16-33
Tuesday, July 9, 2024:
Semi-continuous: Psalm 21; 2 Samuel 5:11-16; James 5:7-12
Complementary: Psalm 119:81-88; Jeremiah 16:1-13; James 5:7-12
Wednesday, July 10, 2024:
Semi-continuous: Psalm 21; 2 Samuel 5:17-25; John 7:1-9
Complementary: Psalm 119:81-88; Jeremiah 16:14-21; John 7:1-9
Thursday, July 11, 2024:
Semi-continuous: Psalm 24; Exodus 25:10-22; Colossians 2:1-5
Complementary: Psalm 85:8-13; Amos 2:6-16; Colossians 2:1-5
Friday, July 12, 2024:
Semi-continuous: Psalm 24; Exodus 37:1-16; Colossians 4:2-18
Complementary: Psalm 85:8-13; Amos 3:1-12; Colossians 4:2-18
Saturday, July 13, 2024:
Semi-continuous: Psalm 24; Numbers 10:11-36; Luke 1:57-80
Complementary: Psalm 85:8-13; Amos 4:6-13; Luke 1:57-80

Special thanks to Sharon Maeda for today’s flower arrangement.

Announcements

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.

Vacation Bible School 2024 • Four Sundays Save these Sunday dates for VBS!

  • July 28
  • August 4
  • August 11
  • August 18

Theme: Operation Restoration – Mending God’s World Time: 10 am to 12 pm, including lunch.

Registration: $20 per Sunday per child. Location: Blaine Memorial Church School Classroom.

Email: blainevbs@gmail.com to enroll now!

Register here!

Everyone smiles for a whole Asian Camp photo in the camp T-shirt!

Blaine Memorial Church School and Blaine Youth Group Summer Schedule

July 13-20, 2024 (incuding travel time)
• Asian Camp at Camp Gilmore (Incoming 10th – 2nd year college)

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 Beacon!

July 2023 Calendar

Learn More
BYG Update Comments Off on BYG Update

BYG Update

Posted by on Jul 5, 2024 in Blaine Youth Group, Church News & Events, Congregational Care, Giving, Miscellaneous, Prayer, Service Opportunities, Small Groups, Spiritual Formation, Weekly Calendar

On May 26-27, 2024 the Blaine Youth Group “retreated” to Camp Indianola to reflect on our relationship with God.

BYG Update

Retreating from Our Busy-ness

By Kai Yamamoto

The Blaine Youth Group celebrate the Rev. Mia MiKyung Park’s final Sunday as Associate Pastor at Blaine Memorial UMC.

I can’t believe that Rev. Mia MiKyung Park is off to serve at Kingston UMC. It has been an honor and a privilege to work with Rev. Mia, as she is so passionate towards our Blaine Youth Group and is one of the nicest people to be around. As one final project for BYG, Rev. Mia led a series of Confirmation classes which included special guests such as Revs. Jeney Park-Hearn, Mark Hearn, and Cruz Edwin Santos. We also went on a retreat at Camp Indianola in May to “retreat” from our busy lives and take time to slow down and develop our relationships with each other and God. 

The retreat was a time of relaxation and reflection. We are constantly busy, going from one thing to the next, and we often do not get a chance to reflect on how amazing our God is. During this retreat, we took time to experience nature, and the beautiful campsite we stayed at. We also took time to reflect on what God has done in our lives, and how God is always with us. 

Blaine Memorial’s youth confirmands take a break from activities during a Confirmation Retreat at Camp Indianola.

For one of our confirmation classes, we talked about our relationship with God, and how it is not always perfect. Rev. Mark discussed his relationship with God throughout his life, and how there were times in his life he grew closer to God, but also grew distant from God. But God was always there for him no matter what and he knows God will always walk beside him and care for him. We also took time to reflect on the message and think of times when God was there for us when we didn’t think they were there. I thought about times when things were not going my way and times when I was rejected and felt sad and angry. At the time, I felt like God was not looking after me and I felt my relationship with God was strained. But looking back at it now, I know God was always with me and was doing what was best for me.

Kai Yamamoto serves as the Associate Co-Director of the Blaine Youth Group.

More Stuff!

BYG raised $1,000 for Camping Ministries during our Bake Sale!
BYG celebrating our five amazing graduates: Kai Yamamoto, Aiden Lew, Ally Sofronas, Mariko Ronan, and Grace Go.

BYG will not meet on Sunday mornings throughout the summer. Join us for Sundays at 10:00am in-person worship or live stream! The 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.

Announcements

Everyone smiles for a whole Asian Camp photo in the camp T-shirt!

Blaine Memorial Church School and Blaine Youth Group Summer Schedule

July 13-20, 2024 (incuding travel time)
• Asian Camp at Camp Gilmore (Incoming 10th – 2nd year college)

Blaine Benefit Bazaar Nominations • Due Friday June 28

The Bazaar Committee is seeking nominations for a beneficiary for the upcoming autumn bazaar! Submit a brief description of your recommended beneficiary recipient to the Church Office by Friday, June 28, 2024 for review and approval by Ad Board. Save the date: Blaine Memorial UMC’s Annual Bazaar will be on Saturday, October 5, 2024. If you have an organization in mind, please fill out the Beneficiary Nominations Form provided by our Church office. Contact Yuki Sofronas for more info.

View the Beacon!

July 2023 Calendar

Learn More