After Sunday Worship, members and friends gathered for a delicious potluck for BMUMC’s 120th Anniversary. (Above) Blaine Memorial UMC celebrated its members ages 88 and up.
Blaine Memorial UMC celebrated our 120th Anniversary on January 28, 2024 in a special worship service. We honored our members and friends who reached the glorious age of 88 and older by reading their names aloud. We saw old friends and got reacquainted with their extended families after many years.
Yuki M. plays the cello with the choir.
A commemorative video of snapshots from the beginning of our church to the present day was created by Gail Nomura, Dale Kaneko, and edited by Michael Chikamura. We also remembered our saints who have passed away from February 2023-January 28, 2024 who were 88 and older by the reading of their names. The celebration was completed with an all-church potluck in the LAC!
Sai Hanaoka and the Rev. Dr. Jeney Park-Hearn honor those who’ve passed in the last year.
It was with such great joy for us to recognize our 88+ elders many years of living, the gifts and contributions that they’ve given throughout the years and all of the ways that God continues to be a part of each precious moment!
Our February-March issue of the Beacon newsletter is ready for view. The March 2024 issue will be available very soon with more of the great news and insights Blaine Memorial UMC has to offer!
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!
Lent Book Studies
The Third Day: Living the Resurrection Lenten Book Study
This year’s All Church Lenten study is The Third Day: Living the Resurrection by Tom Berlin and Mark A. Miller. Just us in this Zoom study on Tuesdays at 7:00PM, which is being facilitated by Rev. Mia MiKyung Park and Rev. Karen Yokota Love. The link will be emailed prior to the meeting date. We will also meet on the remainig Tuesdays: 3/12, and 3/19 to discuss each chapter.
The Office is selling The Third Day: Living the Resurrection books for $14.00 and the Leader Guide is $12.00. You are welcome to buy the book in the Office and read with your small groups.
In The Third Day: Living the Resurrection, Tom Berlin uses his storytelling gifts and scriptural understanding to connect readers to the experiences of individuals around Jesus in his final days. The focus is on new life and redemption rather than loss.
Come and journey with characters like Peter, Mary Magdalene, and Thomas as they experience the despair of losing Jesus and the surprise and joy that awaits them in the resurrection. This study will explore events around these characters, along with Paul and the disciples at Emmaus, and how the resurrection transforms their lives.
NJAUMC Lenten Book Study continues until March 25!
Join Rev. John Miyahara (UMC/US Navy Chaplain), Rev. Brian Lee (Simpson UMC), and members of the Japanese American United Methodist Caucus congregations in a 6-week Lenten book study. We are reading Savior: What the Bible Says about the Cross by Magrey DeVega. Books are $17.00 in the Church Office. Please note that reading the book isn’t required! Join us tomorrow, Monday, March 11 from 4:30-6:00 PM (Hawaii), 6:30-8:00 PM (Pacific) and 7:30-9:00 PM (Mountain). The study will conclude on Mon., March 25.
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 S. 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.
Our February-March issue of the Beacon newsletter is ready for view. The March 2024 issue will be available very soon with more of the great news and insights Blaine Memorial UMC has to offer!
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!
Lent Book Studies
The Third Day: Living the Resurrection Lenten Book Study
This year’s All Church Lenten study is The Third Day: Living the Resurrection by Tom Berlin and Mark A. Miller. Just us in this Zoom study on Tuesdays at 7:00PM, which is being facilitated by Rev. Mia MiKyung Park and Rev. Karen Yokota Love. The link will be emailed prior to the meeting date. We will also meet on the remainig Tuesdays: 3/12, and 3/19 to discuss each chapter.
The Office is selling The Third Day: Living the Resurrection books for $14.00 and the Leader Guide is $12.00. You are welcome to buy the book in the Office and read with your small groups.
In The Third Day: Living the Resurrection, Tom Berlin uses his storytelling gifts and scriptural understanding to connect readers to the experiences of individuals around Jesus in his final days. The focus is on new life and redemption rather than loss.
Come and journey with characters like Peter, Mary Magdalene, and Thomas as they experience the despair of losing Jesus and the surprise and joy that awaits them in the resurrection. This study will explore events around these characters, along with Paul and the disciples at Emmaus, and how the resurrection transforms their lives.
NJAUMC Lenten Book Study continues until March 25!
Join Rev. John Miyahara (UMC/US Navy Chaplain), Rev. Brian Lee (Simpson UMC), and members of the Japanese American United Methodist Caucus congregations in a 6-week Lenten book study. We are reading Savior: What the Bible Says about the Cross by Magrey DeVega. Books are $17.00 in the Church Office. Please note that reading the book isn’t required! Join us tomorrow, Monday, March 11 from 4:30-6:00 PM (Hawaii), 6:30-8:00 PM (Pacific) and 7:30-9:00 PM (Mountain). The study will conclude on Mon., March 25.
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 S. 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.
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.
Our February-March issue of the Beacon newsletter is ready for view. The March 2024 issue will be available very soon with more of the great news and insights Blaine Memorial UMC has to offer!
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!
Lent Book Studies
The Third Day: Living the Resurrection Lenten Book Study
This year’s All Church Lenten study is The Third Day: Living the Resurrection by Tom Berlin and Mark A. Miller. Just us in this Zoom study on Tuesdays at 7:00PM, which is being facilitated by Rev. Mia MiKyung Park and Rev. Karen Yokota Love. The link will be emailed prior to the meeting date. We will also meet on the remainig Tuesdays: 3/5, 3/12, and 3/19 to discuss each chapter.
The Office is selling The Third Day: Living the Resurrection books for $14.00 and the Leader Guide is $12.00. You are welcome to buy the book in the Office and read with your small groups.
In The Third Day: Living the Resurrection, Tom Berlin uses his storytelling gifts and scriptural understanding to connect readers to the experiences of individuals around Jesus in his final days. The focus is on new life and redemption rather than loss.
Come and journey with characters like Peter, Mary Magdalene, and Thomas as they experience the despair of losing Jesus and the surprise and joy that awaits them in the resurrection. This study will explore events around these characters, along with Paul and the disciples at Emmaus, and how the resurrection transforms their lives.
NJAUMC Lenten Book Study continues until March 25!
Join Rev. John Miyahara (UMC/US Navy Chaplain), Rev. Brian Lee (Simpson UMC), and members of the Japanese American United Methodist Caucus congregations in a 6-week Lenten book study. We are reading Savior: What the Bible Says about the Cross by Magrey DeVega. Books are $17.00 in the Church Office. Please note that reading the book isn’t required! Join us tomorrow, Monday, March 4 from 4:30-6:00 PM (Hawaii), 6:30-8:00 PM (Pacific) and 7:30-9:00 PM (Mountain). The study will conclude on Mon., March 25.
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.
Prelude Without His Cross Music by Joseph M. Martin Kathy Onishi
Welcome of Grace and Greeting Rev. Mia MiKyung Park
*Call to Worship (Written by Rev. Mia based on Psalm 22:23-31) Arlene Naganawa
*Opening Hymn Open My Eyes, that I May See UMH #454 Kathy and Eugene Onishi
Opening Prayer Rev. Mia MiKyung Park
First Scripture Reading Romans 4:13-16, 19-25 (JLB, CEB) Yuki Sofronas and Arlene Naganawa
Children’s Message Sai Hanaoka
Special Music Fall, Slow Tears Blaine Memorial Choir
Pastoral Prayer Rev. Mia MiKyung Park Dale Kaneko
Second Scripture Reading Mark 8:31-38 (JLB, CEB) Yuki Sofronas and Arlene Naganawa
Sermon God’s Thoughts vs. Human Thoughts Rev. Mia MiKyung Park
Hymn of Reflection Living for Jesus TFWS #2149 Kathy and Eugene Onishi
Introduction to the Offering Arlene Naganawa
*Doxology Praise God, from Whom All Blessings Flow UMH #94 Kathy and Eugene Onishi
Prayer of Dedication Arlene Naganawa
Announcements Rev. Mia and Friends
*Closing Hymn We Are Called TFWS #2172 Kathy and Eugene Onishi
*Benediction Rev. Mia MiKyung Park
Postlude Standing on the Promises Music by R. Kelso Carter Kathy Onishi
Zoom Breakout Room Dale Kaneko
Sermon Questions
Jesus wants us to have a different perspective, God’s thoughts not human thoughts (vs.33). What does it mean and look like to shift or replace your thoughts to have God’s thoughts?
Look at Mark 8:34-35. What does it mean to ‘must say no to themselves, take up their cross, and follow me’? What needs to change in our lives in order to obey Jesus’ words: deny yourself, take up your cross and follow me?
In what practical ways can we respond to Jesus’ call to take up our cross and follow him in our daily lives, relationships, and communities?
Lectionary Readings
Sunday, February 25, 2024: Genesis 17:1-7, 15-16; Psalm 22:23-31; Romans 4:13-25; Mark 8:31-38 or Mark 9:2-9
Wednesday, February 28, 2024: Psalm 105:1-11, 37-45; Jeremiah 30:12-22; John 12:36-43
Thursday, February 29, 2024: Psalm 19; Exodus 19:1-9a; 1 Peter 2:4-10
Friday, March 1, 2024: Psalm 19; Exodus 19:9b-15; Acts 7:30-40
Saturday, March 2, 2024: Psalm 19; Exodus 19:16-25; Mark 9:2-8
Announcements
Wednesday Meditation & Prayer • February 28 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!
The Third Day: Living the Resurrection Lenten Book Study
This year’s All Church Lenten study is The Third Day: Living the Resurrection by Tom Berlin and Mark A. Miller. This study will begin on Tuesday, February 13, at 7 pm via Zoom and will be facilitated by Rev. Mia MiKyung Park and Rev. Karen Yokota Love. The link will be emailed prior to the meeting date. We will also meet on Tuesdays: 2/20, 2/27, 3/5, 3/12, and 3/19 to discuss each chapter.
The Office is selling The Third Day: Living the Resurrection books for $14.00 and the Leader Guide is $12.00. You are welcome to buy the book in the Office and read with your small groups.
In The Third Day: Living the Resurrection, Tom Berlin uses his storytelling gifts and scriptural understanding to connect readers to the experiences of individuals around Jesus in his final days. The focus is on new life and redemption rather than loss.
Come and journey with characters like Peter, Mary Magdalene, and Thomas as they experience the despair of losing Jesus and the surprise and joy that awaits them in the resurrection. This study will explore events around these characters, along with Paul and the disciples at Emmaus, and how the resurrection transforms their lives.
NJAUMC Lenten Book Study begins on Monday, Feb. 19, 2024!
You’re invited to join Rev. John Miyahara (US Navy Chaplain), Rev. Brian Lee (Simpson UMC), and members of the Japanese American United Methodist Caucus congregations in a 6-week Advent book study. We will be reading Savior: What the Bible Says about the Cross by Magrey DeVega. Books are $17.00 in the Church Office. Please note that reading the book isn’t required! The first session will start on Monday, February 19 from 4:30-6:00 PM (Hawaii), 6:30-8:00 PM (Pacific) and 7:30-9:00 PM (Mountain). The study will conclude on Mon., March 25.
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.
Continue scrolling or view the print version of the bulletin
Order of Worship
Prelude Dear Lord and Fatherof Mankind (UMH #358) Yuki Sofronas
Opening Prayer Rev. Mia MiKyung Park
Congregational Hymn Lord, Who Throughout These Forty Days Verses 1-3 (UMH #269) Yuki Sofronas
Scripture Reading Joel 2:12-13 Barbara Nagaoka
Prayer of Confession Rev. Karen Yokota Love
Scripture Reading Genesis 3:19 Barbara Nagaoka
Scripture Reading Matthew 6:1-6, 16-21 Barbara Nagaoka
Meditation Rev. Karen Yokota Love
Hymn ofContemplation Jesus, Remember Me (UMH #488) Yuki Sofronas
Explanation of the Recognition of Ashes Rev. Mia MiKyung Park Take Time to Be Holy (UMH #395) Yuki Sofronas
Closing Hymn I Surrender All (UMH #354) Yuki Sofronas
Benediction Rev. Karen Yokota Love
Postlude Lord, Who Throughout These Forty Days (UMH #269) Yuki Sofronas
Sermon Questions
How is the Ash Wednesday Gospel message more about our motives than our actions? (Matt 6:1-6, 16-21)
What do we learn about the character of God from Joel 2:12-13?
How can you return to/reboot your relationship with God?
Lectionary Readings
Wednesday, February 14, 2024: Ash Wednesday Joel 2:1-2, 12-17 or Isaiah 58:1-12; Psalm 51:1-17; 2 Corinthians 5:20b-6:10; Matthew 6:1-6, 16-21
Thursday, February 15, 2024: Psalm 25:1-10; Daniel 9:1-14; 1 John 1:3-10
Friday, February 16, 2024: Psalm 25:1-10; Daniel 9:15-25a; 2 Timothy 4:1-5
Saturday, February 17, 2024: Psalm 25:1-10; Psalm 32; Matthew 9:2-13
Announcements
Lent Book Studies
The Third Day: Living the Resurrection Lenten Book Study
This year’s All Church Lenten study is The Third Day: Living the Resurrection by Tom Berlin and Mark A. Miller. This study will begin on Tuesday, February 13, at 7 pm via Zoom and will be facilitated by Rev. Mia MiKyung Park and Rev. Karen Yokota Love. The link will be emailed prior to the meeting date. We will also meet on Tuesdays: 2/20, 2/27, 3/5, 3/12, and 3/19 to discuss each chapter.
The Office is selling The Third Day: Living the Resurrection books for $14.00 and the Leader Guide is $12.00. You are welcome to buy the book in the Office and read with your small groups.
In The Third Day: Living the Resurrection, Tom Berlin uses his storytelling gifts and scriptural understanding to connect readers to the experiences of individuals around Jesus in his final days. The focus is on new life and redemption rather than loss.
Come and journey with characters like Peter, Mary Magdalene, and Thomas as they experience the despair of losing Jesus and the surprise and joy that awaits them in the resurrection. This study will explore events around these characters, along with Paul and the disciples at Emmaus, and how the resurrection transforms their lives.
NJAUMC Lenten Book Study begins on Monday, Feb. 19, 2024!
You’re invited to join Rev. John Miyahara (US Navy Chaplain), Rev. Brian Lee (Simpson UMC), and members of the Japanese American United Methodist Caucus congregations in a 6-week Advent book study. We will be reading Savior: What the Bible Says about the Cross by Magrey DeVega. Books are $17.00 in the Church Office. Please note that reading the book isn’t required! The first session will start on Monday, February 19 from 4:30-6:00 PM (Hawaii), 6:30-8:00 PM (Pacific) and 7:30-9:00 PM (Mountain). The study will conclude on Mon., March 25.
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
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.
Wednesday, February 14, 2024: Ash Wednesday Joel 2:1-2, 12-17 or Isaiah 58:1-12; Psalm 51:1-17; 2 Corinthians 5:20b-6:10; Matthew 6:1-6, 16-21
Thursday, February 15, 2024: Psalm 25:1-10; Daniel 9:1-14; 1 John 1:3-10
Friday, February 16, 2024: Psalm 25:1-10; Daniel 9:15-25a; 2 Timothy 4:1-5
Saturday, February 17, 2024: Psalm 25:1-10; Psalm 32; Matthew 9:2-13
Announcements
Wednesday Meditation & Prayer • February 14 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!
Ash Wednesday Service • February 14, 11am in the Sanctuary
Ash Wednesday begins early this year and shares the day with Valentine’s Day – February 14 – a special day for celebrating love between couples, family members, friends, and ourselves. Ash Wednesday marks the beginning of the Season of Lent. Lent is a season of penance, reflection, and fasting which prepares us for Christ’s resurrection on Easter Sunday, through which we attain redemption. Ashes are placed on the forehead with the words “Remember that you are dust, and to dust you shall return.” Ashes are a symbol that helps us develop a spirit of humility and sacrifice.
This year’s Ash Wednesday service will be on February 14 at 11:00AM followed by a simple soup lunch in the Social Hall. Please join us in worship as we begin the holy journey of prayer, fasting and remembrances. This service will be live-streamed.
Lent Book Studies
The Third Day: Living the Resurrection Lenten Book Study
This year’s All Church Lenten study is The Third Day: Living the Resurrection by Tom Berlin and Mark A. Miller. This study will begin on Tuesday, February 13, at 7 pm via Zoom and will be facilitated by Rev. Mia MiKyung Park and Rev. Karen Yokota Love. The link will be emailed prior to the meeting date. We will also meet on Tuesdays: 2/20, 2/27, 3/5, 3/12, and 3/19 to discuss each chapter.
The Office is selling The Third Day: Living the Resurrection books for $14.00 and the Leader Guide is $12.00. You are welcome to buy the book in the Office and read with your small groups.
In The Third Day: Living the Resurrection, Tom Berlin uses his storytelling gifts and scriptural understanding to connect readers to the experiences of individuals around Jesus in his final days. The focus is on new life and redemption rather than loss.
Come and journey with characters like Peter, Mary Magdalene, and Thomas as they experience the despair of losing Jesus and the surprise and joy that awaits them in the resurrection. This study will explore events around these characters, along with Paul and the disciples at Emmaus, and how the resurrection transforms their lives.
NJAUMC Lenten Book Study begins on Monday, Feb. 19, 2024!
You’re invited to join Rev. John Miyahara (US Navy Chaplain), Rev. Brian Lee (Simpson UMC), and members of the Japanese American United Methodist Caucus congregations in a 6-week Advent book study. We will be reading Savior: What the Bible Says about the Cross by Magrey DeVega. Books are $17.00 in the Church Office. Please note that reading the book isn’t required! The first session will start on Monday, February 19 from 4:30-6:00 PM (Hawaii), 6:30-8:00 PM (Pacific) and 7:30-9:00 PM (Mountain). The study will conclude on Mon., March 25.
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
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.
