Dale H. Watanabe organizes teriyaki salmon and chicken, yakisoba, curry and other plates. Kathy Onishi and her box up salmon teriyaki plates. Friends from Tsuru for Solidarity, this year’s beneficiary share more about justice causes.
Blaine Memorial UMC Bazaar 2025
Thank You for Your Support!
By the BMUMC Bazaar 2025 Committee
Photos by Sally Sekijima, Jesse N. Love, et. al.
With a grateful heart, we thank all our faithful volunteers for their generous time and support of the 2025 Blaine Memorial Benefit Bazaar.
There are so many church members and friends that provided help everywhere needed that numbered in the hundreds–please know you are recognized and loved for your helping hands. We saw an increase in attendance and funds raised this year and will award a portion of the proceeds in the coming months for Tsuru for Solidarity to further their mission to “…educate, advocate, and protest to close all U.S. concentration camps.”
There are a multitude of individuals to thank including the committee leaders:
Tom Yoshioka served behind-the-scenes for Bazaar 2025’s success!
Bakery:
Jason Yada
Ohagi:
Donna Sekijima
Pie and Ohagi Sales:
Terri Adolfo
Did you get your blueberry pie? Volunteers mix fillings for pie during Bazaar 2025.
Farmers’ Market:
Stacy Nagaoka
Wendy Yates
Take-Out:
Eugene Onishi
Kathy Onishi
Arlene Naganawa
Dale Watanabe
Members and friends of Blaine Memorial UMC prepare carrots and other vegetables for curry to sell at this year’s Bazaar benefit event. What are ways we can continue to bring together Church and community?
Lesley Okura celebrates another Bazaar in the history books, bringing community together for a good cause.
We apologize for any key members that were inadvertently missed but know you are part of the success. God’s blessings to you all!
More Photos!
Many thanks to the generous donations from SK Produce, Uwajimaya, and T. Yorozu Gardening Company. Howard Nakase, Lesley Okura, Anne Arakaki-Lock, Sally Sekijima, Ron Nobuyama and Barbara Nagaoka are all members of Blaine Memorial UMC in Seattle.
BMUMC Announcements
Check out what’s happening at Blaine Memorial UMC!
Dates to Remember
Thursday, December 25, 2025 – Monday, January 5, 2026 • OFFICE CLOSED
Sunday, January 4, 2026 • New Year’s Ozoni Soup Meal
Happy New Year! Join us Sunday, January 4 for our annual ozoni soup meal!
Sunday January 4, 2026: New Year’s Ozoni Soup Meal after Worship!
Ozoni mochi soup will be joyfully prepared and served following worship on Sunday, January 4. The Blaine Memorial Choir will host us in the customary making and serving of this traditional New Year’s rice-cake soup. Each bowl of ozoni comes with the Choir’s heartfelt wishes for a blessed and joyful New Year in 2026. Please join us after worship as we celebrate the New Year together in fellowship and gratitude. Happy New Year from the Blaine Memorial Choir!
Join us for our regular Wednesday Prayer & Coffee meetings on Zoom, resuming January 14!
Wednesday, January 14, 2026: Wednesday Prayer & Coffee Update
Wednesday Prayer and Coffee will be taking two Wednesdays off. Please join Rev. Karen as we resume our time together on Wednesday, January 14, 2026, at 9:00 AM on Zoom.
Our time together includes brief check-ins, devotionals, and prayers. It’s a wonderful way to start your morning —clearing and centering your mind while connecting with God and your prayer community. Feel free to bring a cup of coffee or tea, and a bite to eat.
We hope to see you on Wednesday, January 14, 2026!
The Church Office will be closed from Thursday, December 25, 2025-January 5, 2026.
Holiday Office Closure from December 25, 2025 – January 5, 2026
The Blaine Memorial UMC Office will be celebrating Christmas and Japanese New Year at the end of this month, which will alter our regular business hours. The Church Office will be closed from Thursday, December 25, 2025-January 5, 2026. Regular business hours will resume on Tuesday, January 6, 2026. Our regular hours are 10AM to 4PM — Tuesday through Friday.
Blaine Memorial UMC has a new P.O. Box address!
New P.O. Box Address for Blaine Memorial UMC (Paper) Mail!
We have a new mailing address! Blaine Memorial UMC would like to direct all new mail to the following address:
Blaine Memorial United Methodist Church P.O. Box 24065 Seattle, WA 98124
Blaine Memorial’s mailing address has changed to a P.O. Box for improved security. Please save this address! Please send your mail and future giving to this address. All new mail that you receive will have the P.O. Box as Blaine Memorial UMC’s new return address.
The Beacon is Now Available!
Click or tap to view the latest issue of the Beacon newsletter!
Blaine Memorial UMC will offer two Christmas Eve Services, Christmas Eve Family Service and a Candlelight Lesson and Carols Service.
Dates to Remember
Sunday, December 21, 10:00AM • Christmas Music Sunday in the Sanctuary
Sunday, December 21, 1:00PM • Blue Christmas Service in the Sanctuary
Monday, December 22 • OFFICE CLOSED
Wednesday, December 24, 4:00PM • Christmas Eve Family Worship Service
Wednesday, December 24, 7:30PM • Christmas Eve Candlelight Lesson and Carols Service
Thursday, December 25 • Merry Christmas!
Friday, December 26 • BYG Christmas Party
Sunday, December 28, 10:00AM • First Sunday of Christmas Worship
Thursday, December 25, 2025 – Monday, January 5, 2026 • OFFICE CLOSED
Join us on Christmas Eve beginning at 5:00pm for Christmas Eve Fellowship Time!
New! Christmas Eve Fellowship Time will be from 5:00pm – 7:15pm
Christmas Eve is just around the corner! This year at Blaine Memorial UMC, we invite you to enjoy a special Christmas Eve Fellowship Hour from 5:00–7:15 PM on Christmas Eve. If you’re planning to attend the 7:30 PM Christmas Eve Traditional Lessons and Carols Service, we warmly encourage you to come early and share in fellowship beforehand. It’s a wonderful opportunity to gather, connect, and prepare our hearts together for worship. Please note: there will not be fellowship time after the 7:30PM Christmas Eve service. We look forward to celebrating this holy night with you.
Calling all bakers or donors! Blaine Memorial UMC requests cookies for Christmas Eve!
New! Cookie Alert for Wednesday, Christmas Eve (12/24) Fellowship Hour Between 5:00pm-7:00pm
COOKIE ALERT! We need your help for Christmas Eve’s Fellowship time which will be between 5:00PM-7:00PM. Can you bring a dozen cookies to share? Homemade or store-bought are both welcome! Please drop them off in the LAC kitchen by 4:00PM. See you there!
The Church Office will be closed from Thursday, December 25, 2025-January 5, 2026.
New! Holiday Office Closure from December 25, 2025 – January 5, 2026
The Blaine Memorial UMC Office will be celebrating Christmas and Japanese New Year at the end of this month, which will alter our regular business hours. The Church Office will be closed from Thursday, December 25, 2025-January 5, 2026. Regular business hours will resume on Tuesday, January 6, 2026. Our regular hours are 10AM to 4PM — Tuesday through Friday.
Blaine Memorial UMC has a new P.O. Box address!
New P.O. Box Address for Blaine Memorial UMC (Paper) Mail!
We have a new mailing address! Blaine Memorial UMC would like to direct all new mail to the following address:
Blaine Memorial United Methodist Church P.O. Box 24065 Seattle, WA 98124
Blaine Memorial’s mailing address has changed to a P.O. Box for improved security. Please save this address! Please send your mail and future giving to this address. All new mail that you receive will have the P.O. Box as Blaine Memorial UMC’s new return address.
Join Blaine Memorial UMC on Wednesdays for Prayer and Coffee on Zoom!
Wednesday (12/24) Prayer and Coffee on Zoom at 9:00am
Join Rev. Karen for prayer and community on Wednesday, December 17 at 9:00 AM on Zoom. The time together consists of brief check-ins, devotionals, and prayers. We will read from A Sanctified Art’s Do You Fear? devotional book. 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.
Grace Mandac Adriano
Prayers of Peace and Comfort for the Grace Mandac Adriano Family
Grace Mandac Adriano, 51, passed away at home surrounded by family and friends on Wednesday, November 19, 2025, after a hard-fought battle with cancer. Grace is survived by her husband, Joseph Adriano and sons Caleb and Ethan. She had a love for cooking, gardening, and she loved being in the outdoors with God’s creation. Grace loved her family and friends with all her heart. She embodied a deep love for the intersection of justice and mercy. Grace’s whole professional career was about getting people housed.
In lieu of flowers, please donate to Caleb and Ethan’s Education Funds by making checks payable to American Funds Service Company. Memo: Caleb and Ethan’s Education Funds. Contributions may also be mailed to Joseph Adriano at 12451 84th Avenue S., Seattle, WA 98178.
May Grace rest in peace and let God’s perpetual light shine upon her. May her soul through the mercy of God, rest in peace.
Job Opening: Part-Time Youth Director Needed!
The Youth Director at Blaine Memorial United Methodist Church is a dedicated individual with a heart for youth ministry, committed to guiding and mentoring young individuals in their faith journey. This position involves direct engagement with 6th to 12th graders, creating a supportive and encouraging environment for their spiritual growth.
The Beacon is Now Available!
Click or tap to view the latest issue of the Beacon newsletter!
What do you “hear” as you sing or listen to the songs of Christmas?
How do these carols contribute to your celebration of Christ’s birth?
The Yates Family will light the fourth Advent Candle.
Order of Worship
Prelude “In Silence We Wait” By Lloyd Larson Kathy Onishi
Words of Grace and Greeting Rev. Karen Yokota Love
Call to Worship Ron Nobuyama
Opening Prayer Ron Nobuyama
Lighting the Advent Candles The Yates Family
Introduction to Christmas Music Sunday Eugene Onishi
Special Ukulele Music
• “Do You Hear What I Hear?“ • “Angels We Have Heard on High“ • “Mary, Did You Know?“ • “O Holy Night“ • “Mele Kalikimaka“ Blaine Ukulele Group of Seattle, Rev. Karen Yokota Love (Narration)
Special Video “In the Shadows of this Waiting Season“ The Work of the People
Musical Response to the Message “Noel” By Chris Tomlin, Ed Cash and Matt Redman Blaine Praise Band
Prayers of the People Rev. Karen Yokota Love
Special Choir Song “There Shall Come Forth a Shoot From Jesse” By Hal H. Hopson Blaine Memorial Choir
Introduction to the Offering Ron Nobuyama
Offertory “Do You See a Star” By John Parker and Larry Schckley Blaine Memorial Choir
Doxology “Praise God, from Whom All Blessings Flow” UMH #94 Kathy and Eugene Onishi
Prayer of Dedication Ron Nobuyama
Special Music “Breath of Heaven” By Amy Grant Marina Kozu
Special Music “Star Child” By John Carter and Mary Kay Beall Blaine Memorial Choir
Announcements Rev. Karen Yokota Love
Closing Music “Sing We the Song of Emmanuel” By Matt Boswell, Matt Papa, Stuart Townend, and Keith Getty Blaine Praise Band
Benediction Rev. Karen Yokota Love
Postlude “One Holy Night in Bethlehem” TFWS #2097 Kathy Onishi
Blaine Memorial UMC will offer two Christmas Eve Services, Christmas Eve Family Service and a Candlelight Lesson and Carols Service.
Dates to Remember
Sunday, December 21, 10:00AM • Christmas Music Sunday in the Sanctuary
Sunday, December 21, 1:00PM • Blue Christmas Service in the Sanctuary
Monday, December 22 • OFFICE CLOSED
Wednesday, December 24, 4:00PM • Christmas Eve Family Worship Service
Wednesday, December 24, 7:30PM • Christmas Eve Candlelight Lesson and Carols Service
Thursday, December 25 • Merry Christmas!
Friday, December 26 • BYG Christmas Party
Sunday, December 28, 10:00AM • First Sunday of Christmas Worship
Thursday, December 25, 2025 – Monday, January 5, 2026 • OFFICE CLOSED
Join us on Christmas Eve beginning at 5:00pm for Christmas Eve Fellowship Time!
New! Christmas Eve Fellowship Time will be from 5:00pm – 7:15pm
Christmas Eve is just around the corner! This year at Blaine Memorial UMC, we invite you to enjoy a special Christmas Eve Fellowship Hour from 5:00–7:15 PM on Christmas Eve. If you’re planning to attend the 7:30 PM Christmas Eve Traditional Lessons and Carols Service, we warmly encourage you to come early and share in fellowship beforehand. It’s a wonderful opportunity to gather, connect, and prepare our hearts together for worship. Please note: there will not be fellowship time after the 7:30PM Christmas Eve service. We look forward to celebrating this holy night with you.
Calling all bakers or donors! Blaine Memorial UMC requests cookies for Christmas Eve!
New! Cookie Alert for Wednesday, Christmas Eve (12/24) Fellowship Hour Between 5:00pm-7:00pm
COOKIE ALERT! We need your help for Christmas Eve’s Fellowship time which will be between 5:00PM-7:00PM. Can you bring a dozen cookies to share? Homemade or store-bought are both welcome! Please drop them off in the LAC kitchen by 4:00PM. See you there!
The Church Office will be closed from Thursday, December 25, 2025-January 5, 2026.
New! Holiday Office Closure from December 25, 2025 – January 5, 2026
The Blaine Memorial UMC Office will be celebrating Christmas and Japanese New Year at the end of this month, which will alter our regular business hours. The Church Office will be closed from Thursday, December 25, 2025-January 5, 2026. Regular business hours will resume on Tuesday, January 6, 2026. Our regular hours are 10AM to 4PM — Tuesday through Friday.
Blaine Memorial UMC has a new P.O. Box address!
New P.O. Box Address for Blaine Memorial UMC (Paper) Mail!
We have a new mailing address! Blaine Memorial UMC would like to direct all new mail to the following address:
Blaine Memorial United Methodist Church P.O. Box 24065 Seattle, WA 98124
Blaine Memorial’s mailing address has changed to a P.O. Box for improved security. Please save this address! Please send your mail and future giving to this address. All new mail that you receive will have the P.O. Box as Blaine Memorial UMC’s new return address.
Join Blaine Memorial UMC on Wednesdays for Prayer and Coffee on Zoom!
Wednesday (12/24) Prayer and Coffee on Zoom at 9:00am
Join Rev. Karen for prayer and community on Wednesday, December 17 at 9:00 AM on Zoom. The time together consists of brief check-ins, devotionals, and prayers. We will read from A Sanctified Art’s Do You Fear? devotional book. 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.
Grace Mandac Adriano
Prayers of Peace and Comfort for the Grace Mandac Adriano Family
Grace Mandac Adriano, 51, passed away at home surrounded by family and friends on Wednesday, November 19, 2025, after a hard-fought battle with cancer. Grace is survived by her husband, Joseph Adriano and sons Caleb and Ethan. She had a love for cooking, gardening, and she loved being in the outdoors with God’s creation. Grace loved her family and friends with all her heart. She embodied a deep love for the intersection of justice and mercy. Grace’s whole professional career was about getting people housed.
In lieu of flowers, please donate to Caleb and Ethan’s Education Funds by making checks payable to American Funds Service Company. Memo: Caleb and Ethan’s Education Funds. Contributions may also be mailed to Joseph Adriano at 12451 84th Avenue S., Seattle, WA 98178.
May Grace rest in peace and let God’s perpetual light shine upon her. May her soul through the mercy of God, rest in peace.
Job Opening: Part-Time Youth Director Needed!
The Youth Director at Blaine Memorial United Methodist Church is a dedicated individual with a heart for youth ministry, committed to guiding and mentoring young individuals in their faith journey. This position involves direct engagement with 6th to 12th graders, creating a supportive and encouraging environment for their spiritual growth.
The Beacon is Now Available!
Click or tap to view the latest issue of the Beacon newsletter!
It’s that time: dust off your favorite ugly holiday sweater from your closet and enter into the Battle Royale!
Ugly Sweater Battle Royale Holiday Contest
Attention, Fashion Disasters! Do you own a holiday sweater so hideous it frightens small children? One that jangles, sparkles, or possibly hums? Good — because we WANT IT. Wear it proudly to our Ugly Sweater Battle Royale on Sunday (12/14) after the Christmas Children’s Play. Strut your stuff for a chance to win glory, fame, and a questionable prize.
Bring your brightest colors, wildest patterns, and most ridiculous designs for a chance to win:
Most Creative Sweater
Ugliest Sweater
Best Holiday Theme
Join us in celebrating the season with some light-hearted fun!
Last Day to Sign Up for Poinsettias on the Altar: December 14
Advent season is almost here, and it’s time to sign up for poinsettias for the altar. You may dedicate a poinsettia in celebration of a person or an event, in memory of a loved one, or to honor God’s glory. Poinsettias may be taken home after our Christmas Eve services. Each plant is $12.00. The deadline for Poinsettia Orders is Sunday, December 14, 2025. Forms are available online on our website, in the Narthex, and in the Office.
Wednesday Morning Coffee and Prayer
When: 9:00AM
Where: Zoom
The hour together consists of brief check-ins, devotionals, and prayers. We will continue reading from The Upper Room Daily Devotional Guide.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.
Save the dates for our upcoming Advent and Christmas Worship Services!
December Worship Dates to Remember
Sunday, December 21 • Christmas Music Sunday in the Sanctuary, 10am • Blue Christmas Service in the Sanctuary, 1pm
Wednesday, December 24 • Christmas Eve Family Worship Service, 4pm • Christmas Eve Candlelight Lesson and Carols Service, 7:30pm
Sunday, December 28 • First Sunday of Christmas Worship, 10am
Job Opening: Part-Time Youth Director
The Youth Director at Blaine Memorial United Methodist Church is a dedicated individual with a heart for youth ministry, committed to guiding and mentoring young individuals in their faith journey. This position involves direct engagement with 6th to 12th graders, creating a supportive and encouraging environment for their spiritual growth.
Blaine Memorial UMC has a new P.O. Box address!
New P.O. Box Addresss for Blaine Memorial UMC Mail
We have a new mailing address! Blaine Memorial UMC would like to direct all new mail to the following address:
Blaine Memorial United Methodist Church P.O. Box 24065 Seattle, WA 98124
Blaine Memorial’s mailing address has changed to a P.O. Box for improved security. Please save this address! Please send your mail and future giving to this address. All new mail that you receive will have the P.O. Box as Blaine Memorial UMC’s new return address.
Elaine Chin serves up hot and fresh sukiyaki beef.
Sukiyaki Benefit Nominations Needed!
It’s hard to believe that Blaine Memorial’s Sukiyaki Benefit Dinner is around the corner! We’d like to open up nominations for a worthy organization to receive a portion of the proceeds from our annual March event.
Prayers of peace and comfort for the Grace Mandac Adriano Family
Grace Mandac Adriano, 51, passed away at home surrounded by family and friends on Wednesday, November 19, 2025, after a hard-fought battle with cancer. Grace is survived by her husband, Joseph Adriano and sons Caleb and Ethan. She had a love for cooking, gardening, and she loved being in the outdoors with God’s creation. Grace loved her family and friends with all her heart. She embodied a deep love for the intersection of justice and mercy. Grace’s whole professional career was about getting people housed.
In lieu of flowers, please donate to Caleb and Ethan’s Education Funds by making checks payable to American Funds Service Company. Memo: Caleb and Ethan’s Education Funds. Contributions may also be mailed to Joseph Adriano at 12451 84th Avenue S., Seattle, WA 98178. Please see the attached image for more information!
A viewing will be held at Bonney Watson Funeral Home at 16445 International Blvd, SeaTac, WA 98188 on Thursday, December 18, 2025 from 12:00PM-8:00PM. There will be a public Celebration of Life service on Saturday, December 20 at 10:00AM at Blaine Memorial United Methodist Church. Following the Celebration of Life service, guests are invited to her burial service and a reception at Bonney Watson Funeral Home at 16445 International Blvd, SeaTac, WA 98188.
May Grace rest in peace and let God’s perpetual light shine upon her. May her soul through the mercy of God, rest in peace.
Community Announcements
Thank you Blaine Memorial community for supplying food for those in need in November!
Blaine Memorial UMC thanks you for donating during November.
Together, Blaine Memorial UMC collected so many items to help support families in need after SNAP benefits were on hold. Although some SNAP benefits have been restored, some are facing delays.
We are still organizing and sorting what has been collected. Please stay tuned for more info on how much was received. You are a blessing to the community!
If you’d like to give directly to the local organizations, please do so. They have the capacity to purchase food at discounted bulk rates. Please click on ACRS and/or Rainier Valley Food Bank.
Click or tap to view the latest issue of the Beacon newsletter!
What are you most grateful for this holiday? What reflections do you have on Advent?
Spiritual Formation Center
Born of God when the Holy Spirit lives in us
By Anne Arakaki-Lock
As we anticipate the lighting of the fourth Advent candle, may we all feel the deep love of God – the love that gave us Jesus.
Remember this song? Sing along with me:
Jesus loves me, this I know,
For the Bible tells me so.
Little ones to Him belong;
They are weak, but He is strong.
Yes, Jesus loves me!
Yes, Jesus loves me!
Yes, Jesus loves me!
The Bible tells me so.
Holding my new little granddaughter and singing these words to her, I find myself praying that Malia will grow up always knowing how dearly Jesus loves her. With His love, I know she will find strength and learn to show kindness to others. I trust she will experience joy in her life and be filled with thanksgiving. And when she encounters rough patches, she will know His peace.
“…He has given us the Holy Spirit to fill our hearts with His love.”
– Romans 5:5
“How great is the love the Father has lavished on us, that we should be called children of God! And that is what we are!”
– 1 John 3:1
Yes – we are children of God. And He loves us so very much.
Merry Christmas, all.
Anne Arakaki-Lock is a member of Blaine Memorial UMC.
Blaine Memorial UMC will offer two Christmas Eve Services, Christmas Eve Family Service and a Candlelight Lesson and Carols Service.
Dates to Remember
Sunday, December 21, 10:00AM • Christmas Music Sunday in the Sanctuary
Sunday, December 21, 1:00PM • Blue Christmas Service in the Sanctuary
Monday, December 22 • OFFICE CLOSED
Wednesday, December 24, 4:00PM • Christmas Eve Family Worship Service
Wednesday, December 24, 7:30PM • Christmas Eve Candlelight Lesson and Carols Service
Thursday, December 25 • Merry Christmas!
Friday, December 26 • BYG Christmas Party
Sunday, December 28, 10:00AM • First Sunday of Christmas Worship
Thursday, December 25, 2025 – Monday, January 5, 2026 • OFFICE CLOSED
Join us on Christmas Eve beginning at 5:00pm for Christmas Eve Fellowship Time!
New! Christmas Eve Fellowship Time will be from 5:00pm – 7:15pm
Christmas Eve is just around the corner! This year at Blaine Memorial UMC, we invite you to enjoy a special Christmas Eve Fellowship Hour from 5:00–7:15 PM on Christmas Eve. If you’re planning to attend the 7:30 PM Christmas Eve Traditional Lessons and Carols Service, we warmly encourage you to come early and share in fellowship beforehand. It’s a wonderful opportunity to gather, connect, and prepare our hearts together for worship. Please note: there will not be fellowship time after the 7:30PM Christmas Eve service. We look forward to celebrating this holy night with you.
Calling all bakers or donors! Blaine Memorial UMC requests cookies for Christmas Eve!
New! Cookie Alert for Wednesday, Christmas Eve (12/24) Fellowship Hour Between 5:00pm-7:00pm
COOKIE ALERT! We need your help for Christmas Eve’s Fellowship time which will be between 5:00PM-7:00PM. Can you bring a dozen cookies to share? Homemade or store-bought are both welcome! Please drop them off in the LAC kitchen by 4:00PM. See you there!
The Church Office will be closed from Thursday, December 25, 2025-January 5, 2026.
New! Holiday Office Closure from December 25, 2025 – January 5, 2026
The Blaine Memorial UMC Office will be celebrating Christmas and Japanese New Year at the end of this month, which will alter our regular business hours. The Church Office will be closed from Thursday, December 25, 2025-January 5, 2026. Regular business hours will resume on Tuesday, January 6, 2026. Our regular hours are 10AM to 4PM — Tuesday through Friday.
Blaine Memorial UMC has a new P.O. Box address!
New P.O. Box Address for Blaine Memorial UMC (Paper) Mail!
We have a new mailing address! Blaine Memorial UMC would like to direct all new mail to the following address:
Blaine Memorial United Methodist Church P.O. Box 24065 Seattle, WA 98124
Blaine Memorial’s mailing address has changed to a P.O. Box for improved security. Please save this address! Please send your mail and future giving to this address. All new mail that you receive will have the P.O. Box as Blaine Memorial UMC’s new return address.
Join Blaine Memorial UMC on Wednesdays for Prayer and Coffee on Zoom!
Wednesday (12/24) Prayer and Coffee on Zoom at 9:00am
Join Rev. Karen for prayer and community on Wednesday, December 17 at 9:00 AM on Zoom. The time together consists of brief check-ins, devotionals, and prayers. We will read from A Sanctified Art’s Do You Fear? devotional book. 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.
Grace Mandac Adriano
Prayers of Peace and Comfort for the Grace Mandac Adriano Family
Grace Mandac Adriano, 51, passed away at home surrounded by family and friends on Wednesday, November 19, 2025, after a hard-fought battle with cancer. Grace is survived by her husband, Joseph Adriano and sons Caleb and Ethan. She had a love for cooking, gardening, and she loved being in the outdoors with God’s creation. Grace loved her family and friends with all her heart. She embodied a deep love for the intersection of justice and mercy. Grace’s whole professional career was about getting people housed.
In lieu of flowers, please donate to Caleb and Ethan’s Education Funds by making checks payable to American Funds Service Company. Memo: Caleb and Ethan’s Education Funds. Contributions may also be mailed to Joseph Adriano at 12451 84th Avenue S., Seattle, WA 98178.
May Grace rest in peace and let God’s perpetual light shine upon her. May her soul through the mercy of God, rest in peace.
Job Opening: Part-Time Youth Director Needed!
The Youth Director at Blaine Memorial United Methodist Church is a dedicated individual with a heart for youth ministry, committed to guiding and mentoring young individuals in their faith journey. This position involves direct engagement with 6th to 12th graders, creating a supportive and encouraging environment for their spiritual growth.
The Beacon is Now Available!
Click or tap to view the latest issue of the Beacon newsletter!
Volunteers of all ages helped decorate Blaine Memorial UMC during the Greening of Blaine. As we enter the Advent and Christmas season, what are your hopes for the community and the world around you? Is God at work?
Senior Pastor Reflection
Insisting on Hope: Entering Advent with Courage and Joy
By the Rev. Karen Yokota Love, additional photos by Arlene Mitsui
Last Saturday, we ushered in Advent by greening the church. Royal blue cloth and Advent candles sit near the altar, the Christmas tree is decorated with chrismons, and the smell of evergreen wreaths, swag and garland covers the Blaine campus. Thank you to those who volunteered their time and creativity as they decorated and transformed the campus! Thank you to the many elves who worked on this year’s paper cutout craft of an angel whispering, “Do not fear!” It was a joy to begin the season with new and familiar faces as we prepared for the Advent and Christmas season.
Ecumenical faith leaders advocate for SNAP Benefits with US Congresswoman Pramila Jayapal. What are our common beliefs that can bring hope through feeding and uplifting communities in need?
Luke’s Gospel begins the story of Jesus with this opening line: “In the time of Herod…” This detail may seem minor to modern readers, however, it reveals layers of information about the fearful world Jesus entered – one filled with rampant oppression, economic disparity, uncertainty and instability. It’s a world not so unlike our own. Yet throughout the stories of Christ’s birth, we hear the whispers of angels delivering a surprising message: “Do not fear.” When Mary, Joseph, the shepherds and the magi are called into God’s redemptive story, they do not deny their fears – they move through them. They ask questions, hold fast to courage, trust in good news and say, “Here I am, Lord.” When we find ourselves in fearful times, can we acknowledge our fears while also insisting on hope?
Kaze Daiko graced Blaine Memorial UMC with a couple of performances after Sunday Worship Service. Kaze Daiko is a young taiko group based in Seattle teaching communities about resilience through music and to not have fear.The Rev. Karen Yokota Love tries her hand at taiko drumming.
This Advent series takes seriously the angels’ message and trusts that Christ’s birth truly is “good news of great joy for all people.” The resources look closely at the fear and terror looming in the background during the time of King Herod and invite us to consider the fears we hold now. Fear can divide and paralyze us and can even be used as a tool for oppression. But what if we formed a different relationship with fear? Can we acknowledge fear without letting it rule us? Might we channel our fears into love and action? What if naming our fears helps us see more clearly how God is breaking in and where God is at work?
This Advent, we will be discussing ideas of managing our fears through “What Do You Fear?”, a free resource available at the Church Office.
As we journey through this season together, may your hope become gritty and resilient. This year’s small group Advent book study will use a free devotional from A Sanctified Art, “What Do You Fear?” Free copies are available in the Narthex and in the Church Office. May you remember: hope that trembles is still hope. This season, let us insist on hope and trust that good news is greater than fear. I look forward to discovering great hope with you during this Advent season.
(Left to right): Jason Yada, Ryan Kozu, Marina Kozu, GNW Bishop Cedrick D. Bridgeforth, Rev. Karen Yokota Love, and Ron Nobuyama at the Atlantic Street Center Gala where we were reminded of hope during turbulent times.
The Rev. Karen Yokota Love serves as the Senior Pastor of Blaine Memorial UMC.
BMUMC Announcements
Click or tap to view the latest issue of the Beacon newsletter!
Members of Blaine Memorial UMC continue to support Kimball Elementary through Thanksgiving Meals and Giving Tree projects. These gifts will go to the children in our community. Thank you all for your support!
GIVING TREE GIFTS: DELIVERED!
Blaine Memorial UMC and Kimball Elementary together are bringing hope and joy this season to the children of our community.
Through the leadership of Terri Adolfo, the support of Mr. Abdi Husein, and the generosity of Blaine Memorial UMC, the gifts you see in the photo are all going to children in need. Through the simple gesture of giving: sharing happiness, inclusion, and the feeling of being provided for…together as a spirit-filled community, we can help others in big ways!
Be sure to check out blaineonline.org for updates, including a video report, on these two projects!
Job Opening: Part-Time Youth Director
The Youth Director at Blaine Memorial United Methodist Church is a dedicated individual with a heart for youth ministry, committed to guiding and mentoring young individuals in their faith journey. This position involves direct engagement with 6th to 12th graders, creating a supportive and encouraging environment for their spiritual growth.
Blaine Memorial UMC has a new P.O. Box address!
New P.O. Box Addresss for Blaine Memorial UMC Mail
We have a new mailing address! Blaine Memorial UMC would like to direct all new mail to the following address:
Blaine Memorial United Methodist Church P.O. Box 24065 Seattle, WA 98124
Blaine Memorial’s mailing address has changed to a P.O. Box for improved security. Please save this address! Please send your mail and future giving to this address. All new mail that you receive will have the P.O. Box as Blaine Memorial UMC’s new return address.
Save the dates for our upcoming Advent and Christmas Worship Services!
December Worship Dates to Remember
Sunday, December 14 • Christmas Play with children and youth in the LAC, 10am
Sunday, December 21 • Christmas Music Sunday in the Sanctuary, 10am • Blue Christmas Service in the Sanctuary, 1pm
Wednesday, December 24 • Christmas Eve Family Worship Service, 4pm • Christmas Eve Candlelight Lesson and Carols Service, 7:30pm
Sunday, December 28 • First Sunday of Christmas Worship, 10am
Wednesday Morning Coffee and Prayer
When: 9:00AM
Where: Zoom
The hour together consists of brief check-ins, devotionals, and prayers. We will continue reading from The Upper Room Daily Devotional Guide.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.
It’s that time: dust off your favorite ugly holiday sweater from your closet and enter into the Battle Royale!
Ugly Sweater Battle Royale Holiday Contest
Attention, Fashion Disasters! Do you own a holiday sweater so hideous it frightens small children? One that jangles, sparkles, or possibly hums? Good — because we WANT IT. Wear it proudly to our Ugly Sweater Battle Royale on Sunday (12/14) after the Christmas Children’s Play. Strut your stuff for a chance to win glory, fame, and a questionable prize.
Bring your brightest colors, wildest patterns, and most ridiculous designs for a chance to win:
Most Creative Sweater
Ugliest Sweater
Best Holiday Theme
Join us in celebrating the season with some light-hearted fun!
Elaine Chin serves up hot and fresh sukiyaki beef.
Sukiyaki Benefit Nominations Needed!
It’s hard to believe that Blaine Memorial’s Sukiyaki Benefit Dinner is around the corner! We’d like to open up nominations for a worthy organization to receive a portion of the proceeds from our annual March event.
Last Day to Sign Up for Poinsettias on the Altar: December 14
Advent season is almost here, and it’s time to sign up for poinsettias for the altar. You may dedicate a poinsettia in celebration of a person or an event, in memory of a loved one, or to honor God’s glory. Poinsettias may be taken home after our Christmas Eve services. Each plant is $12.00. The deadline for Poinsettia Orders is Sunday, December 14, 2025. Forms are available online on our website, in the Narthex, and in the Office.
Prayers of peace and comfort for the Grace Mandac Adriano Family
Grace Mandac Adriano, 51, passed away at home surrounded by family and friends on Wednesday, November 19, 2025, after a hard-fought battle with cancer. Grace is survived by her husband, Joseph Adriano and sons Caleb and Ethan. She had a love for cooking, gardening, and she loved being in the outdoors with God’s creation. Grace loved her family and friends with all her heart. She embodied a deep love for the intersection of justice and mercy. Grace’s whole professional career was about getting people housed.
In lieu of flowers, please donate to Caleb and Ethan’s College Fund through Blaine Memorial UMC.
A viewing will be held at Bonney Watson Funeral Home at 16445 International Blvd, SeaTac, WA 98188 on Thursday, December 18, 2025 from 12:00PM-8:00PM. There will be a public Celebration of Life service on Saturday, December 20 at 10:00AM at Blaine Memorial United Methodist Church. Following the Celebration of Life service, guests are invited to her burial service and a reception at Bonney Watson Funeral Home at 16445 International Blvd, SeaTac, WA 98188.
May Grace rest in peace and let God’s perpetual light shine upon her. May her soul through the mercy of God, rest in peace.
Community Announcements
Thank you Blaine Memorial community for supplying food for those in need in November!
Blaine Memorial UMC thanks you for donating during November.
Together, Blaine Memorial UMC collected so many items to help support families in need after SNAP benefits were on hold. Although some SNAP benefits have been restored, some are facing delays.
We are still organizing and sorting what has been collected. Please stay tuned for more info on how much was received. You are a blessing to the community!
If you’d like to give directly to the local organizations, please do so. They have the capacity to purchase food at discounted bulk rates. Please click on ACRS and/or Rainier Valley Food Bank.
