Saturday, June 15, 2024: Semi-continuous: Psalm 20; 1 Samuel 13:1-15a; Mark 4:1-20 Complementary: Psalm 92:1-4, 12-15; 2 Kings 14:1-14; Mark 4:1-20
Announcements
Love Offering for Rev. Mia MiKyung Park! • Today
As a way of showing our love and appreciation for Rev. Mia, we will be accepting a Love Offering for her today. Baskets will be provided in the Narthex and in the LAC during the potluck for your gifts! You may give cash or make a check directly to Mia MiKyung Park and drop it in the basket.
Wednesday Prayer and Coffee on Zoom • June 12 at 9am
Join Rev. Karen for prayer and community on Wednesday (6/12) 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 prayercommunity. Feel free to bring a cup of coffee, tea, and a bite to eat. Hope to see you on Wednesday.
Everyone smiles for a whole Asian Camp photo in the camp T-shirt!
Blaine Memorial Church School and Blaine Youth Group Summer Schedule
June 23-28, 2024 • Jr. High Camp at Camp Lodestar (Incoming 6th-9th grade)
July 13-20, 2024 • Asian Camp at Camp Gilmore (Incoming 10th – 2nd year college)
Four Sundays: July 28, August 4, August 11, August 18 • Vacation Bible School 2024 (Register here)
34th Annual ACRS Walk for Rice • Saturday, June 29 at 9am (See Insert)
The ACRS will host the Walk for Rice on Saturday, June 29, 2024, at Seward Park starting at 9 AM. Blaine Memorial has a very special connection to the ACRS Walk for Rice.
In 1990, Herb and Bertha Tsuchiya, along with Blaine’s own Sam Mitsui, initiated a way for everyone to contribute to feeding the community. Although Sam passed away in 2019, Team Blaine walks to honor his memory and his significant role in starting the Walk for Rice 34 years ago.
ACRS will host the Walk for Rice on Saturday, June 29, 2024, at Seward Park starting at 9:00 AM. Last year, Team Blaine raised close to $12,000, securing second place! This year, our fundraising goal is $8,000. Help ACRS feed ANHPI (Asian, Native Hawaiian, Pacific Islander) community members facing food insecurity by joining Team Blaine as a walker and/or by donating to our team!
Alternatively, you can mail your donation (checks made out to “Walk for Rice,” memo: “Team Blaine”) to the Blaine office. Please contact Team Captain Justine for more details. Thank you for your continued support!
During this Easter season, what purpose can we serve while reflecting on the meaning of Resurrection?
Do you love me?
By Anne Arakaki-Lock
During Lent we read about several New Testament characters and their transformation after the Resurrection. In “The Third Day: Living the Resurrection”, author Tom Berlin made reference to John 21:15-17. Three times Jesus asks “Simon son of John, do you love me?” When Peter answered yes, Jesus told him to feed his sheep.
I had read this passage several times before, but during this Lenten study, God’s voice was loud and clear. Maybe it was because we were working on the Sukiyaki dinner and in planning it, we said over and over we want to reach the community. Or maybe because we’ve been playing pickleball and I’ve been excited about all the new people coming to the Lee Center during the week to play. It’s been a sports ministry. Or just maybe, I had been working on my aunt’s eulogy that I would be giving in Hawaii. My sweet, generous, loving Aunty was the example of kindness, lover of all babies, caretaker and second parent to struggling nieces and nephews all her life. When she passed away, my cousins and I knew that we had a duty to take all that love we had received from Aunty and had the job to give it back to others. We had a purpose, like Peter.
Each of us may be transformed when we accept the Resurrection. We give our life to Christ and truly believe and shout, “Christ is risen indeed.” As the author of our Lenten study book says, “we can be certain that like Peter, Jesus has entrusted each of us with a commission. “And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose.” -Romans 8:28.
Anne Arakaki-Lock is a member of Blaine Memorial UMC.
Lectionary Readings
Sixth Sunday of Easter May 5, 2024
*Acts 10:44-48; Psalm 98; 1 John 5:1-6; John 15:9-17
Ascension of the Lord May 9, 2024
*Acts 1:1-11: Psalm 47 or Psalm 93; Ephesians 1:15-23; Luke 24:44-53
Seventh Sunday of Easter May 12, 2024 (If Ascension not observed here)
*Acts 1:15-17, 21-26 Psalm 1 1 John 5:9-13 John 17:6-19
Day of Pentecost May 19, 2024
*Acts 2:1-21 or Ezekiel 37:1-14 Psalm 104:24-34, 35b Romans 8:22-27 or Acts 2:1-21 John 15:26-27; 16:4b-15Sixth Sunday of Easter May 5, 2024 *Acts 10:44-48; Psalm 98; 1 John 5:1-6; John 15:9-17
Announcements
Wednesday Meditation & Prayer • Every Wednesday
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!
Spring Reconciling Ministries Book Study • Every Thursday
The Reconciling team will begin hosting a new book study this Spring. We’ll read and discuss the book Outside the Lines by author and pastor Mihee Kim-Kort.
Kim-Kort’s book explores the relationship between queerness and spirituality. Queerness is not only an identity that many of us hold but a lens through which we can begin to understand God’s love for us.
Books can be purchased at the Church office for $16.
This book study is open to anyone who would like to participate! The Book Study Group will meet every Thursday evening at 7:00 PM on Zoom. We will read and discuss one chapter per week and open up space for questions, reflections, and sharing with one another.
Zoom Christian Parenting Webinar • Thursday, May 9, 2024
Join us for a special Zoom Christian Parenting Webinar on Thursday, May 9 at 7 pm. Our guest speaker is Rev. Dr. KilJae Park from the Greater New Jersey Conference of the United Methodist Church. Contact Rev. Mia for more details.
Mother’s Day Brunch • Sunday, May 12, 2024
Join us as we honor the women and those who identify as women at Blaine Memorial UMC on Sunday, May 12 from 8:30am-10am and then again, after worship. During this time, we will honor, remember, and show our love to our mothers, grandmothers, godmothers, aunts, sisters, cousins, wives, teachers, mentors, and all the women in our lives that have influenced and shaped us into the people who we are today. We need your help all men and those who identify as men at Blaine Memorial to prepare the breakfast beginning at 6am. Thank you to Howard Nakase for chairing this year’s Mother’s Day breakfast!
BYG Bake Sale, T-Shirt Sale for Camping Ministries • Sunday, May 12, 2024
Bake Sale on Mother’s Day (Sunday, May 12) in the Social Hall and T-Shirts (each $30) Pre-order Available till Sunday, May 12 Please email our BYG Directors for any questions. Thank you for your continued support!
Educational Scholarships 2024, Apply Now! • Due May 15, 2024
The Blaine Memorial United Methodist Church Educational Scholarships are designed to support the mission of the church through supporting a multitude of educational opportunities. We are proud to have helped students in their pursuit of continuing education since 1968. We encourage all applicants; from those just entering their next phase of education to those returning to complete or pursue continued education.
We are blessed to offer the following scholarships:
Vera Ing Scholarship
Blaine Memorial United Methodist Church Scholarship
Yasuda Scholarship
William S. Yorozu Scholarship
Robert and Lucy Sato Scholarship
Applications are available through emailing Blaine Scholarships or through the church office. All scholarships will consider, but are not limited to, elements such as grades (if applicable), personal essay, church participation and finances. Applications and two (2) letters of recommendation must be received no later than May 15, 2024 for consideration.
We are looking forward to applicants excited about pursuing their education.
34th Annual ACRS Walk for Rice • June 29, 2024
The ACRS will host the Walk for Rice on Saturday, June 29, 2024, at Seward Park starting at 9:00 am. Please visit www.walkforrice.org (you’ll be directed to the ACRS WFR event page) and search for “Team Blaine” to donate online! Alternatively, you can mail your donation (checks made out to “Walk for Rice”, memo: “Team Blaine”) to the Blaine office. Thank you for your con-tinued support! Please contact Justine Ing for more details. Read more.
Everyone smiles for a whole Asian Camp photo in the camp T-shirt! This photo is from Asian Camp 2023. Contact BYG leadership for to register for this year’s Asian Camp!
Summer Youth Camps Schedule • See Dates
Jr. High Camp • June 23-28, 2024
Incoming 6th-9th grade
Camp Lodestar
6135 Blue Mountain Rd.
Wilseyville, CA 95257
Asian Camp • July 14-19, 2024
Incoming 10th- 2nd year college
Camp Gilmore
26801 Dorothy Drive
Calabasas, CA 91302
VBS 2023 provided quality time with our young people and adults alike. What are you looking forward to at VBS 2024?
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!
“Letters of Suresh” with Dr. Stephen Sumida! • April 24-May 18
Dr. Stephen Sumida will be performing in what may be his last center-stage role! In “Letters of Suresh”, Sumida will play Father Hashimoto mentoring the main character through life and spiritual matters. Contact Dr. Sumida for more info!
The Rev. Mia MiKyung Park and family enjoy some time rest and relaxation.
Upcoming Events
Vacation Bible School Sunday Sundays, 7/28, 8/4, 8/11, and 8/14 10am-12:30pm (with lunch)
This year’s theme is “Operation Restoration – Mending God’s World” Registration for each Sunday per child will be $20 (Note: siblings will have a different fee, TBD.)
Zoom Christian Parenting Webinar Thursday, May 9, 7pm
For all Church School and BYG parents! Guest speaker: The Rev. Dr. KilJae Park from The Greater New Jersey Conference of The United Methodist Church.
Nurturing the Faith and Spirit of Blaine Memorial UMC
By the Rev. Mia MiKyung Park
The blooming of flowers heralds the arrival of warm and gentle weather, bringing a rush of excitement to my heart. Amidst the ministries at Blaine Memorial and with my family, I find myself brimming with gratitude in this spring—from Lent, through Easter Sunday, and into this time of Eastertide. One particularly sunny morning during Lent, with the air filled with promise, I decided to go outside and spend time with Nooni, our ten-month-old puppy, whatever satisfied us both. I allowed Nooni to play while I set about pulling weeds and admiring the flowers. The soil yielded easily, the tiny weeds’ shallow roots offering little resistance. After about 30 minutes of diligent weeding and tending to the flowers, a portion of our front lawn looked revitalized. Despite not being a gardening expert, I derive immense joy from caring for plants and trees. Through trial and error, I’ve learned valuable lessons, gradually becoming more adept at tending to the plants surrounding our parsonage.
My mother is an expert in caring for plants and boasts an impressive collection in her living room, each lovingly tended to with care. She speaks to her plants (I know some of you do the same), treating them with the same tenderness she shows to loved ones. Her approach emphasizes the uniqueness of each plant, acknowledging that a one-size-fits-all approach simply won’t do. With careful attention to detail, she ensures each plant receives the specific care it needs, whether it’s cleaning their leaves, fertilizing the soil, providing enough sunlight and water, or less, etc. And when pruning is necessary, it’s done with the plant’s well-being in mind rather than its appearance.
In the quiet moments spent tending to plants, I find joy and gratitude for the wisdom passed down from my mother. I’m reminded of the profound truth that growth, whether of plants or souls, requires patience, care, and diligence. It’s a reminder of the divine interconnectedness that binds us all together and the importance of nurturing the roots of faith to produce bountiful fruits of love, compassion, and understanding.
As the days grow warmer and Mother’s Day draws near, I’m reminded of the valuable lessons my mother imparted on plant care. As a pastor, I find myself drawing parallels between nurturing plants and nurturing souls. Just as a plant requires the right conditions to thrive, so do individuals. People require spiritual guidance, support, and love to flourish in their faith journeys.
Church School’s May memorization is John 15:5, “I am the vine; you are the branches. Those who abide in me and I in them bear much fruit, because apart from me you can do nothing.” My prayer for our children is for them to root their faith in our risen Christ, grow healthy, and produce abundant fruit in their future.
May God continue to bless our ministries at Blaine Memorial and I pray for your well-being and wish you a blessed spring!
The Rev. Mia MiKyung Park serves as the Associate Pastor of Blaine Memorial UMC.
Announcements
Wednesday Meditation & Prayer • Every Wednesday
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!
Spring Reconciling Ministries Book Study • Every Thursday
The Reconciling team will begin hosting a new book study this Spring. We’ll read and discuss the book Outside the Lines by author and pastor Mihee Kim-Kort.
Kim-Kort’s book explores the relationship between queerness and spirituality. Queerness is not only an identity that many of us hold but a lens through which we can begin to understand God’s love for us.
Books can be purchased at the Church office for $16.
This book study is open to anyone who would like to participate! The Book Study Group will meet every Thursday evening at 7:00 PM on Zoom. We will read and discuss one chapter per week and open up space for questions, reflections, and sharing with one another.
Zoom Christian Parenting Webinar • Thursday, May 9, 2024
Join us for a special Zoom Christian Parenting Webinar on Thursday, May 9 at 7 pm. Our guest speaker is Rev. Dr. KilJae Park from the Greater New Jersey Conference of the United Methodist Church. Contact Rev. Mia for more details.
Mother’s Day Brunch • Sunday, May 12, 2024
Join us as we honor the women and those who identify as women at Blaine Memorial UMC on Sunday, May 12 from 8:30am-10am and then again, after worship. During this time, we will honor, remember, and show our love to our mothers, grandmothers, godmothers, aunts, sisters, cousins, wives, teachers, mentors, and all the women in our lives that have influenced and shaped us into the people who we are today. We need your help all men and those who identify as men at Blaine Memorial to prepare the breakfast beginning at 6am. Thank you to Howard Nakase for chairing this year’s Mother’s Day breakfast!
BYG Bake Sale, T-Shirt Sale for Camping Ministries • Sunday, May 12, 2024
Bake Sale on Mother’s Day (Sunday, May 12) in the Social Hall and T-Shirts (each $30) Pre-order Available till Sunday, May 12 Please email our BYG Directors for any questions. Thank you for your continued support!
Educational Scholarships 2024, Apply Now! • Due May 15, 2024
The Blaine Memorial United Methodist Church Educational Scholarships are designed to support the mission of the church through supporting a multitude of educational opportunities. We are proud to have helped students in their pursuit of continuing education since 1968. We encourage all applicants; from those just entering their next phase of education to those returning to complete or pursue continued education.
We are blessed to offer the following scholarships:
Vera Ing Scholarship
Blaine Memorial United Methodist Church Scholarship
Yasuda Scholarship
William S. Yorozu Scholarship
Robert and Lucy Sato Scholarship
Applications are available through emailing Blaine Scholarships or through the church office. All scholarships will consider, but are not limited to, elements such as grades (if applicable), personal essay, church participation and finances. Applications and two (2) letters of recommendation must be received no later than May 15, 2024 for consideration.
We are looking forward to applicants excited about pursuing their education.
34th Annual ACRS Walk for Rice • June 29, 2024
The ACRS will host the Walk for Rice on Saturday, June 29, 2024, at Seward Park starting at 9:00 am. Please visit www.walkforrice.org (you’ll be directed to the ACRS WFR event page) and search for “Team Blaine” to donate online! Alternatively, you can mail your donation (checks made out to “Walk for Rice”, memo: “Team Blaine”) to the Blaine office. Thank you for your con-tinued support! Please contact Justine Ing for more details. Read more.
Everyone smiles for a whole Asian Camp photo in the camp T-shirt! This photo is from Asian Camp 2023. Contact BYG leadership for to register for this year’s Asian Camp!
Summer Youth Camps Schedule • See Dates
Jr. High Camp • June 23-28, 2024
Incoming 6th-9th grade
Camp Lodestar
6135 Blue Mountain Rd.
Wilseyville, CA 95257
Asian Camp • July 14-19, 2024
Incoming 10th- 2nd year college
Camp Gilmore
26801 Dorothy Drive
Calabasas, CA 91302
VBS 2023 provided quality time with our young people and adults alike. What are you looking forward to at VBS 2024?
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!
“Letters of Suresh” with Dr. Stephen Sumida! • April 24-May 18
Dr. Stephen Sumida will be performing in what may be his last center-stage role! In “Letters of Suresh”, Sumida will play Father Hashimoto mentoring the main character through life and spiritual matters. Contact Dr. Sumida for more info!
The Founder’s Gate at Kyoto’s Higashi Hongan-ji Temple was a magnificent sight!
Upcoming Events
Book Study Meetings Thursdays (Zoom) 7:00 PM
Bob Ross Painting Night Saturday, April 20 7:00 PM
Young Adult Hike Date & Time TBD
A Yonsei’s Journey to Japan
By Lynne Onishi
Tadaima! I’m home from Japan! I had the immense privilege of visiting my ancestral homelands for the first time in February and March. Along with a couple of friends, I got to sightsee, explore cities, eat delicious food, and learn about the history and culture of a place and people I’ve long felt disconnected from as a Yonsei (fourth-generation Japanese American). I had hoped this trip might help me discover new facets of myself.
Though I anticipated new experiences, I was unprepared for my time in Japan to re-affirm what I already felt and knew about myself, my family, and my community. In this new country where I could barely grasp the language at all, I was surprised each time something felt familiar or reminded me of home. Whether it was the hospitality I received at a small ryokan (inn) or the community care I saw firsthand as strangers helped an elderly rider board the train, I couldn’t help but notice the way these experiences reinforced what I’ve always wanted to believe about people: humans really do care for one another.
It can be hard to believe that when our news feeds are full of violence, war, and death. But I pray we are all part of a community which actively reinforces these truths about humanity through the way we care for one another and our neighborhood. The love we share and steward in this faith community is evidence of God’s kin-dom here on Earth. May it continue to be so.
Join us for our next Young Adult Hike!
Young Adult Hiking Ministry is Back!
The Young Adults went on a hike at Rattlesnake Ledge near North Bend in March. They enjoyed time together and a meal afterward. As the weather warms up this Spring and Summer, join them for future hikes on some of our area’s most beautiful trails!
The Innovation Hub and Reconciling Ministries Teams are always looking for new folks to join us. If you feel called to lend your voice to these important ministries, we invite you to join us at our next team zoom meeting. Please contact Lynne or any of the other team members for more information. Questions? Send an email.
Announcements
Wednesday Meditation & Prayer • Every Wednesday
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!
Spring Reconciling Ministries Book Study • Every Thursday
The Reconciling team will begin hosting a new book study this Spring. We’ll read and discuss the book Outside the Lines by author and pastor Mihee Kim-Kort.
Kim-Kort’s book explores the relationship between queerness and spirituality. Queerness is not only an identity that many of us hold but a lens through which we can begin to understand God’s love for us.
Books can be purchased at the Church office for $16.
This book study is open to anyone who would like to participate! The Book Study Group will meet every Thursday evening at 7:00 PM on Zoom. We will read and discuss one chapter per week and open up space for questions, reflections, and sharing with one another.
Zoom Christian Parenting Webinar • Thursday, May 9, 2024
Join us for a special Zoom Christian Parenting Webinar on Thursday, May 9 at 7 pm. Our guest speaker is Rev. Dr. KilJae Park from the Greater New Jersey Conference of the United Methodist Church. Contact Rev. Mia for more details.
Mother’s Day Brunch • Sunday, May 12, 2024
Join us as we honor the women and those who identify as women at Blaine Memorial UMC on Sunday, May 12 from 8:30am-10am and then again, after worship. During this time, we will honor, remember, and show our love to our mothers, grandmothers, godmothers, aunts, sisters, cousins, wives, teachers, mentors, and all the women in our lives that have influenced and shaped us into the people who we are today. We need your help all men and those who identify as men at Blaine Memorial to prepare the breakfast beginning at 6am. Thank you to Howard Nakase for chairing this year’s Mother’s Day breakfast!
BYG Bake Sale, T-Shirt Sale for Camping Ministries • Sunday, May 12, 2024
Bake Sale on Mother’s Day (Sunday, May 12) in the Social Hall and T-Shirts (each $30) Pre-order Available till Sunday, May 12 Please email our BYG Directors for any questions. Thank you for your continued support!
Educational Scholarships 2024, Apply Now! • Due May 15, 2024
The Blaine Memorial United Methodist Church Educational Scholarships are designed to support the mission of the church through supporting a multitude of educational opportunities. We are proud to have helped students in their pursuit of continuing education since 1968. We encourage all applicants; from those just entering their next phase of education to those returning to complete or pursue continued education.
We are blessed to offer the following scholarships:
Vera Ing Scholarship
Blaine Memorial United Methodist Church Scholarship
Yasuda Scholarship
William S. Yorozu Scholarship
Robert and Lucy Sato Scholarship
Applications are available through emailing Blaine Scholarships or through the church office. All scholarships will consider, but are not limited to, elements such as grades (if applicable), personal essay, church participation and finances. Applications and two (2) letters of recommendation must be received no later than May 15, 2024 for consideration.
We are looking forward to applicants excited about pursuing their education.
34th Annual ACRS Walk for Rice • June 29, 2024
The ACRS will host the Walk for Rice on Saturday, June 29, 2024, at Seward Park starting at 9:00 am. Please visit www.walkforrice.org (you’ll be directed to the ACRS WFR event page) and search for “Team Blaine” to donate online! Alternatively, you can mail your donation (checks made out to “Walk for Rice”, memo: “Team Blaine”) to the Blaine office. Thank you for your con-tinued support! Please contact Justine Ing for more details. Read more.
Everyone smiles for a whole Asian Camp photo in the camp T-shirt! This photo is from Asian Camp 2023. Contact BYG leadership for to register for this year’s Asian Camp!
Summer Youth Camps Schedule • See Dates
Jr. High Camp • June 23-28, 2024
Incoming 6th-9th grade
Camp Lodestar
6135 Blue Mountain Rd.
Wilseyville, CA 95257
Asian Camp • July 14-19, 2024
Incoming 10th- 2nd year college
Camp Gilmore
26801 Dorothy Drive
Calabasas, CA 91302
VBS 2023 provided quality time with our young people and adults alike. What are you looking forward to at VBS 2024?
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!
“Letters of Suresh” with Dr. Stephen Sumida! • April 24-May 18
Dr. Stephen Sumida will be performing in what may be his last center-stage role! In “Letters of Suresh”, Sumida will play Father Hashimoto mentoring the main character through life and spiritual matters. Contact Dr. Sumida for more info!
The Rev. Karen Yokota Love and Jesse Love celebrate Easter Sunday, placing flowers on the cross at Blaine Memorial UMC.
Hallelujah, rest and renewal during Eastertide
By The Rev. Karen Yokota Love, additional photos by Ryan Kozu
Keiko and Susan Yanagihara anxiously await for Easter worship to begin.
Hallelujah! Christ is risen! Hallelujah! Christ is risen, indeed! I greet you with the miracle of Easter during this Eastertide season.
Thank you to each of you who attended Blaine’s Easter Sunday festivities this year! For the second year in a row since the pandemic, the Blaine Youth Group (BYG) worked passionately to prepare a delicious Easter Breakfast with all the fixings – scrambled eggs, mini smokies, fruit, cinnamon rolls, and much more.
The Blaine Youth Group served a delicious Easter Breakfast consisting of eggs, fruit, pancakes, and sausages in support of Blaine’s Camping Ministries.
The altar was covered in lilies with white and gold touches. Howard Nakase, Jason Lew and Ron Nobuyama carried in the flowered cross during the processional. It magnified the sanctuary.
Jason Lew and Howard Nakase carry in the Flowered Cross into the Sanctuary during Easter Sunday Service.
Our Church School Teachers and BYG filled and hid 450 Easter Eggs in the Courtyard. The sun was shining and it was a perfect Easter morning – incredibly special with Christ’s love surrounding us with breakfast, the flowering of the cross, a dynamic worship service and an Egg Hunt. Thank you for a special Easter, Blaine Memorial. Christ Is Risen, Indeed!
Yoshi L. gets ready to place a flower on the cross.
During this Eastertide, and after serving full-time as a United Methodist minister for the past 10 years, I am taking a one month vacation with Jesse for rest and renewal in May. This is the first extended vacation that I am taking since my appointed time at Blaine Memorial UMC and it is fully supported and encouraged by SPRC.
Rest and renewal are deeply entrenched biblical principles; Jesus himself would often take time from active ministry to be with God. In the same way, I am grateful that the SPRC Team encourages to provide rhythms of rest and restoration to your spiritual leaders at Blaine. I plan on using this time to let the Holy Spirit teach myself as well as the congregation to guide us and prepare us so that we can be ready to do vibrant ministry for the upcoming year. I ask for your prayers for me and our staff and worship team here at Blaine Memorial UMC. I believe that God has great things planned for us!
Rev. Mia will oversee all duties at Blaine Memorial from May 1-31, 2024. On March 17, 2024 during worship, Arlene Naganawa, our esteemed SPRC Chair, announced that Rev. Mia MiKyung Park is to be appointed to Redeemer United Methodist Church in Kingston, WA as of July 1, 2024. Rev. Mia’s last day at Blaine Memorial UMC will be on Tuesday, June 18, 2024. From now until then, she will focus on wrapping up her work with current ministries that she oversees with the Children and Youth. I’m grateful for all of Rev. Mia’s work and her heartfelt ministry and I ask that we continue to enjoy her gifts, graces and presence. May God grant us faith and love as God leads us through this transition. Please come to her celebration send-off party on Sunday, June 9 with one of Blaine’s famous potlucks! Take a look at page 4 for more information.
During the month of May, there will not be a June printed newsletter. Our next newsletter will be the July/August issue. Any pertinent news will be emailed through Realm during this time. If you’d like to receive emails, please contact the Blaine Office.
In addition to the talented staff and leaders, many others will step in to fulfill areas of my role. I am fortunate that our ministers and staff are more than capable and ready to take on preaching, pastoral care, and administrative responsibilities. SPRC and Ad Board will also be available to support the ministers and staff in whatever ways necessary during this time. Our chairpersons are well-equipped to handle their various ministry teams, and our staff members are ready to help our ministries succeed to the fullest. I appreciate being at a church that cares about my self-care. I know that I can take a month off with a peaceful heart and mind because the church is not only in good shape, it’s also in good hands.
Thank you in advance for your understanding, and for playing your part while Jesse and I are away. May you be blessed every step of your path by the great God of light. I will see you upon my return and I’ll be ready to serve! Peace to you.
The Rev. Karen Yokota Love serves as the Senior Pastor of Blaine Memorial UMC.
Announcements
Wednesday Meditation & Prayer • Every Wednesday
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!
Spring Reconciling Ministries Book Study • Every Thursday
The Reconciling team will begin hosting a new book study this Spring. We’ll read and discuss the book Outside the Lines by author and pastor Mihee Kim-Kort.
Kim-Kort’s book explores the relationship between queerness and spirituality. Queerness is not only an identity that many of us hold but a lens through which we can begin to understand God’s love for us.
Books can be purchased at the Church office for $16.
This book study is open to anyone who would like to participate! The Book Study Group will meet every Thursday evening at 7:00 PM on Zoom. We will read and discuss one chapter per week and open up space for questions, reflections, and sharing with one another.
Zoom Christian Parenting Webinar • Thursday, May 9, 2024
Join us for a special Zoom Christian Parenting Webinar on Thursday, May 9 at 7 pm. Our guest speaker is Rev. Dr. KilJae Park from the Greater New Jersey Conference of the United Methodist Church. Contact Rev. Mia for more details.
Mother’s Day Brunch • Sunday, May 12, 2024
Join us as we honor the women and those who identify as women at Blaine Memorial UMC on Sunday, May 12 from 8:30am-10am and then again, after worship. During this time, we will honor, remember, and show our love to our mothers, grandmothers, godmothers, aunts, sisters, cousins, wives, teachers, mentors, and all the women in our lives that have influenced and shaped us into the people who we are today. We need your help all men and those who identify as men at Blaine Memorial to prepare the breakfast beginning at 6am. Thank you to Howard Nakase for chairing this year’s Mother’s Day breakfast!
BYG Bake Sale, T-Shirt Sale for Camping Ministries • Sunday, May 12, 2024
Bake Sale on Mother’s Day (Sunday, May 12) in the Social Hall and T-Shirts (each $30) Pre-order Available till Sunday, May 12 Please email our BYG Directors for any questions. Thank you for your continued support!
Educational Scholarships 2024, Apply Now! • Due May 15, 2024
The Blaine Memorial United Methodist Church Educational Scholarships are designed to support the mission of the church through supporting a multitude of educational opportunities. We are proud to have helped students in their pursuit of continuing education since 1968. We encourage all applicants; from those just entering their next phase of education to those returning to complete or pursue continued education.
We are blessed to offer the following scholarships:
Vera Ing Scholarship
Blaine Memorial United Methodist Church Scholarship
Yasuda Scholarship
William S. Yorozu Scholarship
Robert and Lucy Sato Scholarship
Applications are available through emailing Blaine Scholarships or through the church office. All scholarships will consider, but are not limited to, elements such as grades (if applicable), personal essay, church participation and finances. Applications and two (2) letters of recommendation must be received no later than May 15, 2024 for consideration.
We are looking forward to applicants excited about pursuing their education.
34th Annual ACRS Walk for Rice • June 29, 2024
The ACRS will host the Walk for Rice on Saturday, June 29, 2024, at Seward Park starting at 9:00 am. Please visit www.walkforrice.org (you’ll be directed to the ACRS WFR event page) and search for “Team Blaine” to donate online! Alternatively, you can mail your donation (checks made out to “Walk for Rice”, memo: “Team Blaine”) to the Blaine office. Thank you for your con-tinued support! Please contact Justine Ing for more details. Read more.
Everyone smiles for a whole Asian Camp photo in the camp T-shirt! This photo is from Asian Camp 2023. Contact BYG leadership for to register for this year’s Asian Camp!
Summer Youth Camps Schedule • See Dates
Jr. High Camp • June 23-28, 2024
Incoming 6th-9th grade
Camp Lodestar
6135 Blue Mountain Rd.
Wilseyville, CA 95257
Asian Camp • July 14-19, 2024
Incoming 10th- 2nd year college
Camp Gilmore
26801 Dorothy Drive
Calabasas, CA 91302
VBS 2023 provided quality time with our young people and adults alike. What are you looking forward to at VBS 2024?
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!
“Letters of Suresh” with Dr. Stephen Sumida! • April 24-May 18
Dr. Stephen Sumida will be performing in what may be his last center-stage role! In “Letters of Suresh”, Sumida will play Father Hashimoto mentoring the main character through life and spiritual matters. Contact Dr. Sumida for more info!
WEDS April 24, 2024: Psalm 95; Micah 7:8-20; Mark 14:26-31
THURS April 25, 2024: Psalm 22:25-31; Amos 8:1-7; Acts 8:1b-8
FRI April 26, 2024: Psalm 22:25-31; Amos 8:11-13; Acts 8:9-25
SAT April 27, 2024: Psalm 22:25-31; Amos 9:7-15; Mark 4:30-32
Announcements
Wednesday Meditation & Prayer • Every Wednesday
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!
Zoom Christian Parenting Webinar • May 9, 2024
Join us for a special Zoom Christian Parenting Webinar on Thursday, May 9 at 7 pm. Our guest speaker is Rev. Dr. KilJae Park from the Greater New Jersey Conference of the United Methodist Church. Contact Rev. Mia for more details.
Mother’s Day Brunch • May 12, 2024
Join us as we honor the women and those who identify as women at Blaine Memorial UMC on Sunday, May 12 from 8:30am-10am and then again, after worship. During this time, we will honor, remember, and show our love to our mothers, grandmothers, godmothers, aunts, sisters, cousins, wives, teachers, mentors, and all the women in our lives that have influenced and shaped us into the people who we are today. We need your help all men and those who identify as men at Blaine Memorial to prepare the breakfast beginning at 6am. Thank you to Howard Nakase for chairing this year’s Mother’s Day breakfast!
Educational Scholarships 2024, Apply Now! • Due May 15, 2024
The Blaine Memorial United Methodist Church Educational Scholarships are designed to support the mission of the church through supporting a multitude of educational opportunities. We are proud to have helped students in their pursuit of continuing education since 1968. We encourage all applicants; from those just entering their next phase of education to those returning to complete or pursue continued education.
We are blessed to offer the following scholarships:
Vera Ing Scholarship
Blaine Memorial United Methodist Church Scholarship
Yasuda Scholarship
William S. Yorozu Scholarship
Robert and Lucy Sato Scholarship
Applications are available through emailing Blaine Scholarships or through the church office. All scholarships will consider, but are not limited to, elements such as grades (if applicable), personal essay, church participation and finances. Applications and two (2) letters of recommendation must be received no later than May 15, 2024 for consideration.
We are looking forward to applicants excited about pursuing their education.
Celebration Farewell Potluck for the Rev. Mia • June 9, 2024
It is such a great joy to celebrate and send off our Associate Pastor, Rev. Mia MiKyung Park as she receives a new call and embarks onward to her new appointment at Redeemer Kingston on July 1, 2024! We’ll honor Rev. Mia’s ministry by sending her off well. In addition, we will also celebrate our graduates and confirmands on June 9. What’s a better way than to show our appreciation and love to Rev. Mia, our graduates and our confirmands than having a ’Blaine’ potluck? We are asking folks to contribute! (If you are single, just bring one item.) A-H: Main Dish/Dessert I-S: Main Dish/Salad T-Z: Main Dish/Rice We hope that you can join us on Sunday, June 9 to joyfully celebrate Rev. Mia’s ministry, our graduates, and our confirmands!
Everyone smiles for a whole Asian Camp photo in the camp T-shirt! This photo is from Asian Camp 2023. Contact BYG leadership for to register for this year’s Asian Camp!
Summer Youth Camps Schedule • See Dates
Jr. High Camp • June 23-28, 2024
Incoming 6th-9th grade
Camp Lodestar
6135 Blue Mountain Rd.
Wilseyville, CA 95257
Asian Camp • July 14-19, 2024
Incoming 10th- 2nd year college
Camp Gilmore
26801 Dorothy Drive
Calabasas, CA 91302
VBS 2023 provided quality time with our young people and adults alike. What are you looking forward to at VBS 2024?
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!
“Letters of Suresh” with Dr. Stephen Sumida!
Dr. Stephen Sumida will be performing in what may be his last center-stage role! In “Letters of Suresh”, Sumida will play Father Hashimoto mentoring the main character through life and spiritual matters. Contact Dr. Sumida for more info!
View the March-April 2024 Calendar
Coming soon: The latest issue of the Beacon!
The April-May issue of the Beacon newsletter will be available soon!
