The young people of Blaine Memorial UMC help prepare Thanksgiving meals for Kimball Elementary. Want to help? Contact Terry Adolfo, Kaylee Yokoyama, or our Church Office for information!
Help us develop leaders this Thanksgiving!
By Kaylee Yokoyama
Upcoming Events
Apple Crisp Work Party Sunday, November 10, 2024, after fellowship, Lee Activity Center
Mashed Potatoes Work Party Sunday, November 24, 2024, after fellowship, Lee Activity Center
Kimball Elementary Food Delivery Tuesday, November 26, 2024, 10:00AM
As we head into November, we are entering Stewardship Month – a season of reflection, service, and gratitude. When I think about stewardship, I can’t help but envision the comforting smell of warm apple crisp fresh out of the oven, the deliciousness of mashed potatoes, and the joyful sounds of the Blaine community coming together. Throughout stewardship month, the Blaine Youth Group focuses on using their skills and talents toward acts of service. During the month of November, BYG continues their tradition of serving Thanksgiving meals to Kimball Elementary families and the youth serve their community through offering their gifts, time, and service.
This season is also a reminder to express our gratitude. As there have been many recent and ongoing changes within BYG leadership, I am grateful for the support and dedication of our wonderful BYG leaders. Their passion for supporting the youth’s growth through their mentorship and care for the youth is an example of the stewardship that BYG values and strives to demonstrate. Here are some thoughts from our supportive BYG members as we rev things up for the Thanksgiving season:
“I like doing the Thanksgiving service project at BYG because it is fun.” -Marisa I.“Not only do I enjoy spending time with BYG youth while providing meals for Kimball, but I also feel fulfilled knowing that I am supporting students in my community.” -Emma H.“Getting the opportunity through Blaine to support the next generation of students in the same community that I grew up in is always one of the most fulfilling experiences I get to participate in at Blaine.”-Aiden Lew
I have had the privilege of working with these talented and amazing leaders, and I am blessed that BYG has leaders who have stepped up to support the youth and their growth. I also want to extend my heartfelt thanks to the parents and congregation members who consistently support BYG. Your love and encouragement are deeply valued, and I hope we can continue to show our gratitude to our community through meaningful acts of service!
BYG meets on Sundays at 10:00 AM. We will gather in the Sanctuary for the beginning of worship service before transitioning over to the Nishida Room for BYG time after the children’s message.
Blaine Youth Group (BYG) is a place where youth (6th-12th grade) are invited into a loving community and celebrated as they are. BYG provides a safe environment for youth to build lasting friendships, grow spiritually, learn acceptance of self and others, express compassion for the world, and develop a love for God. BYG has a space for any person who is interested, and all are welcome.
Join Anne Arakaki-Lock for prayer and community on Wednesdays at 9:00 AM on Zoom. Our time together consists of brief check-ins, devotionals, and prayers. This is a great way to start your morning, clear and center your mind, all while connecting with God and your prayer community. Feel free to bring a cup of coffee, tea, and a bite to eat. Hope to see you on Wednesday.
Afghanistan and Ukrainian Refugee Donation Ministry
Items being collected: At this time, we have an abundance of some items and so we are NOT in need of clothing or children’s toys. Especially needed items include women’s products, toothpaste, personal care items, rice cookers, blenders, mixing bowls, microwave ovens, toasters, mixers, irons, dish sets, towels, and blankets.
Blaine Memorial UMC Collection Hours: Collection items can be dropped off at the Blaine Memorial Social Hall from Tuesday-Friday between 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM. Please call the Church Office at (206) 723-1536 prior to dropping off your items.
South King County Response Center Collection Volunteer Hours: The Donation Center is open on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays from 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM, same time as the Tukwila Pantry at 3118 S. 140th St. Seattle. Please text Kim Parks at (206) 683-1707 when you would like to help. Please wear a mask and bring a marking pen and measuring tape if possible. Other Questions? Please contact Donna Sekijima or Anne Arakaki-Lock.
Saturday, October 26, 2024: Semi-continuous: Psalm 34:1-8 • Job 42:7-9 • Mark 8:22-26; Complementary: Psalm 126 • Jeremiah 29:24-32 • Mark 8:22-26
Announcements
Pastor Appreciation Lunch • Today after Worship
Did you know that October is Pastor Appreciation Month? Staff Parish Relations Committee (SPRC) is hosting a Pastor Appreciation Lunch next Sunday, October 20, immediately after worship in the Social Hall. Join us for a delicious meal and celebrate Revs. Karen, Jeney, Mark, and Cruz!
This celebration was established in 1992 with a mission of uplifting and encouraging pastors, missionaries and religious workers. Let’s celebrate our pastors and lift them up for their hard work, ministry, and dedication to Blaine Memorial UMC.
Reflections on 120 Years of Grace Discussion: “Into the Future” • Today, 11:45a-12:45p
The Archives Committee concludes the discussion series on the 120-year history and future of Blaine Memorial UMC, titled “Reflections on 120 Years of Grace.” The discussion sessions will be held from 11:45 a.m. to 12:45 p.m. after Sunday service in the Social Hall on October 13 and 20, 2024. Light refreshments will be served.
Today’s final session, titled “Into the Future,” will reflect on what we have learned and discuss our visions for the future development of the church. Materials will be presented from the archives as well as church members knowledgeable about each period will speak of their experiences.
There will be ample time for participants to ask questions and share their own thoughts. Please join us in learning more about our church’s history and begin discussions on our visions for the next 120 years.
Creative Competition • Submissions due October 27
In conjunction with this discussion series, the Archives Committee is organizing another “competition” organized by Shig Nishida. We are asking members to submit their reflections on the history and future of Blaine Memorial UMC. This can take the form of submitting a few sentences, a paragraph, a short essay, short graphic novel/cartoon/anime, short play, a prayer, poems, music/song (new composition or lyrics sung to the tune of a known song), artwork, video, dance, etc. Let us read/hear/see/feel your thoughts on the 120 years of Grace and the next 120 years of Grace for Blaine Memorial UMC. Submit your entries to the Blaine Memorial UMC office by October 27, 2024 (sooner than later is preferred).
The Archives Committee continually seeks relevant church documents, photographs, and other materials and memorabilia to add to our archival records and illuminate previously unknown parts of our church’s history. Please let the committee know if you have any materials to donate or materials for the committee to scan and add to the archives. Monetary donations in support of the work of the archives are also appreciated.
“Context: Putting Scripture in Its Place” Fall Book Study Continues • October 22
You’re invited to join Rev. Dr. John Miyahara (UMC Navy Chaplain), Rev. Brian Lee (Simpson UMC in Arvada, CO), and congregation members of the Japanese American United Methodist Caucus in a 6-week book study. We will be reading Context: Putting Scripture in its Place. Please note that reading the book isn’t required!
Books are available in the Church Office for $17.00. The study continues on Tuesday, October 15, 2024 from 6:30-8:00 PM. The Zoom link will be sent out closer to the beginning of the book study date. Please contact Rev. Karen will any questions.
Prayers and Coffee on Zoom • Wednesdays at 9am
Join us for prayer and community on Wednesdays at 9:00 AM on Zoom. Our time together consists of brief check-ins, devotionals, and prayers. This is a great way to start your morning, clear and center your mind, all while connecting with God and your prayer community. Feel free to bring a cup of coffee, tea, and a bite to eat. Hope to see you on Wednesday.
Trunk or Treat! • Sunday, October 27 after Worship Service
Trunk-or-Treat is a wonderful opportunity for our church to provide a safe trick-or-treat experience for families.
Costumes are encouraged! We love to see everyone dressed up, even the adults!
Once again, please be sensitive in regards to costumes that are too scary or gory. We also ask that your costume not have a mask that covers your entire face of that your face is painted in a way that makes you unrecognizable. For safety reasons, all adults should be able to recognize the faces of the other adults.
Would you like to participate and/or decorate your trunk? Please contact Jennifer Lew.
Afghanistan and Ukrainian Refugee Donation Ministry
Items being collected: At this time, we have an abundance of some items and so we are NOT in need of clothing or children’s toys. Especially needed items include women’s products, toothpaste, personal care items, rice cookers, blenders, mixing bowls, microwave ovens, toasters, mixers, irons, dish sets, towels, and blankets.
Blaine Memorial UMC Collection Hours: Collection items can be dropped off at the Blaine Memorial Social Hall from Tuesday-Friday between 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM. Please call the Church Office at (206) 723-1536 prior to dropping off your items.
South King County Response Center Collection Volunteer Hours: The Donation Center is open on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays from 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM, same time as the Tukwila Pantry at 3118 S. 140th St. Seattle. Please text Kim Parks at (206) 683-1707 when you would like to help. Please wear a mask and bring a marking pen and measuring tape if possible. Other Questions? Please contact Donna Sekijima or Anne Arakaki-Lock.
Welcome of Grace and Greeting Rev. Cruz Edwin Santos
*Call to Worship Rev. Cruz Edwin Santos
*Opening Song When the Poor Ones (Cuando El Pobre) Michelle Vaughan and Kathy Onishi
Opening Prayer Rev. Cruz Edwin Santos
First Scripture Reading Mark 10:17-31 (JLB, CEB) Tsutomu Nagoya, Ron Nobuyama
Children’s Message Stephen Sumida
Second Scripture Reading Acts 2:37-47 (JLB, CEB) Tsutomu Nagoya, Ron Nobuyama
Sermon New Paradigm Rev. Cruz Edwin Santos
Hymn of Reflection Walk With Me (TFWS #2242) Michelle Vaughan and Kathy Onishi
Invitation to the Offering Ron Nobuyama
*Doxology Praise God, from Whom All Blessings Flow Michelle Vaughan and Kathy Onishi
*Prayer of Dedication Ron Nobuyama
Announcements Rev. Cruz Edwin Santos
*Benediction Rev. Cruz Edwin Santos
Postlude Make Me a Servant (TFWS #2176) Kathy Onishi
Zoom Breakout Room Dale Kaneko
Sermon Questions
How do we respond to the complicated moral, ethical, social, political, and economic issues that we face in our modern and post-modern society?
How do we live as a community of Jesus the Christ in a meaningful way – revealing that Jesus offers the way to enter into abundant life now and for eternity? How can we enter into a life with God?
Describe what it is like to “live in-between”?
Daily Lectionary Readings
Sunday, October 13, 2024 Job 23:1-9, 16-17 and Psalm 22:1-15 • Amos 5:6-7, 10-15 and Psalm 90:12-17 • Hebrews 4:12-16 • Mark 10:17-31
Saturday, October 19, 2024: Semi-continuous: Psalm 104:1-9, 24, 35b • Job 39:1-30 • Luke 22:24-30. Complementary: Psalm 91:9-16 • Isaiah 47:10-15 • Luke 22:24-30
Announcements
Reflections on 120 Years of Grace Discussion Sessions • October 13 & 20
The Archives Committee continues the discussion series on the 120-year history and future of Blaine Memorial UMC, titled “Reflections on 120 Years of Grace.” The discussion sessions will be held from 11:45 a.m. to 12:45 p.m. after Sunday service in the Social Hall on October 13 and 20, 2024. Light refreshments will be served.
Today’s session, titled “Serve in Love,” will center on the years 1965 to 2024 and the fourth, titled “Into the Future,” will reflect on what we have learned and discuss our visions for the future development of the church. Materials will be presented from the archives as well as church members knowledgeable about each period will speak of their experiences.
There will be ample time for participants to ask questions and share their own thoughts. Please join us in learning more about our church’s history and begin discussions on our visions for the next 120 years.
Creative Competition • Submissions due October 27
In conjunction with this discussion series, the Archives Committee is organizing another “competition” organized by Shig Nishida. We are asking members to submit their reflections on the history and future of Blaine Memorial UMC. This can take the form of submitting a few sentences, a paragraph, a short essay, short graphic novel/cartoon/anime, short play, a prayer, poems, music/song (new composition or lyrics sung to the tune of a known song), artwork, video, dance, etc. Let us read/hear/see/feel your thoughts on the 120 years of Grace and the next 120 years of Grace for Blaine Memorial UMC. Submit your entries to the Blaine Memorial UMC office by October 27, 2024 (sooner than later is preferred).
The Archives Committee continually seeks relevant church documents, photographs, and other materials and memorabilia to add to our archival records and illuminate previously unknown parts of our church’s history. Please let the committee know if you have any materials to donate or materials for the committee to scan and add to the archives. Monetary donations in support of the work of the archives are also appreciated.
“Context: Putting Scripture in Its Place” Fall Book Study Continues • October 15
You’re invited to join Rev. Dr. John Miyahara (UMC Navy Chaplain), Rev. Brian Lee (Simpson UMC in Arvada, CO), and congregation members of the Japanese American United Methodist Caucus in a 6-week book study. We will be reading Context: Putting Scripture in its Place. Please note that reading the book isn’t required!
Books are available in the Church Office for $17.00. The study continues on Tuesday, October 15, 2024 from 6:30-8:00 PM. The Zoom link will be sent out closer to the beginning of the book study date. Please contact Rev. Karen will any questions.
Prayers and Coffee on Zoom • Wednesdays at 9am
Join Anne Arakaki-Lock for prayer and community on Wednesdays at 9:00 AM on Zoom. Our time together consists of brief check-ins, devotionals, and prayers. This is a great way to start your morning, clear and center your mind, all while connecting with God and your prayer community. Feel free to bring a cup of coffee, tea, and a bite to eat. Hope to see you on Wednesday.
Pastor Appreciation Lunch • Next Sunday, October 20 after Worship
Did you know that October is Pastor Appreciation Month? Staff Parish Relations Committee (SPRC) is hosting a Pastor Appreciation Lunch next Sunday, October 20, immediately after worship in the Social Hall. Join us for a delicious meal and celebrate Revs. Karen, Jeney, Mark, and Cruz!
This celebration was established in 1992 with a mission of uplifting and encouraging pastors, missionaries and religious workers. Let’s celebrate our pastors and lift them up for their hard work, ministry, and dedication to Blaine Memorial UMC.
Trunk or Treat! • Sunday, October 27 after Worship Service
Trunk-or-Treat is a wonderful opportunity for our church to provide a safe trick-or-treat experience for families.
Costumes are encouraged! We love to see everyone dressed up, even the adults!
Once again, please be sensitive in regards to costumes that are too scary or gory. We also ask that your costume not have a mask that covers your entire face of that your face is painted in a way that makes you unrecognizable. For safety reasons, all adults should be able to recognize the faces of the other adults.
Would you like to participate and/or decorate your trunk? Please contact Jennifer Lew.
Afghanistan and Ukrainian Refugee Donation Ministry
Items being collected: At this time, we have an abundance of some items and so we are NOT in need of clothing or children’s toys. Especially needed items include women’s products, toothpaste, personal care items, rice cookers, blenders, mixing bowls, microwave ovens, toasters, mixers, irons, dish sets, towels, and blankets.
Blaine Memorial UMC Collection Hours: Collection items can be dropped off at the Blaine Memorial Social Hall from Tuesday-Friday between 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM. Please call the Church Office at (206) 723-1536 prior to dropping off your items.
South King County Response Center Collection Volunteer Hours: The Donation Center is open on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays from 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM, same time as the Tukwila Pantry at 3118 S. 140th St. Seattle. Please text Kim Parks at (206) 683-1707 when you would like to help. Please wear a mask and bring a marking pen and measuring tape if possible. Other Questions? Please contact Donna Sekijima or Anne Arakaki-Lock.
Saturday, October 12, 2024: Semi-continuous: Psalm 22:1-15 • Job 20:1-29 • Matthew 15:1-9; Complementary: Psalm 90:12-17 • Amos 3:13-4:5 • Matthew 15:1-9
Announcements
Bazaar Lunch with Love Offering for Mission Guatemala
After worship, we will have our fellowship time in the LAC with Bazaar foods! Please bring extra cash, since there will be a love offering and it will benefit Mission Guatemala.
We’ll also sell leftover food, plants, desserts, or anything that we didn’t sell at the Bazaar!
“Context: Putting Scripture in Its Place” Fall Book Study Continues
You’re invited to join Rev. Dr. John Miyahara (UMC Navy Chaplain), Rev. Brian Lee (Simpson UMC in Arvada, CO), and congregation members of the Japanese American United Methodist Caucus in a 6-week book study. We will be reading Context: Putting Scripture in its Place. Please note that reading the book isn’t required!
Books are available in the Church Office for $17.00. The study continues on Tuesday, October 8, 2024 from 6:30-8:00 PM. The Zoom link will be sent out closer to the beginning of the book study date. Please contact Rev. Karen will any questions.
Prayers and Coffee on Zoom • Wednesdays at 9am
Join Rev. Karen for prayer and community on Wednesdays at 9:00 AM on Zoom. Our time together consists of brief check-ins, devotionals, and prayers. This is a great way to start your morning, clear and center your mind, all while connecting with God and your prayer community. Feel free to bring a cup of coffee, tea, and a bite to eat. Hope to see you on Wednesday.
Church Office Closed
The Church Office will be closed on Friday, October 11 in observance of Indigenous Peoples Day.
The Rev. Karen Yokota Love speaks during a QA session with clergy during Asian Camp 2024.
Asian Camp 50th Anniversary Event (Southern California) • October 12
Calling all Asian Camp campers, counselors, directors, past and present! RSVP for this years AC 50th anniversary event on October 12! RSVPs & ticket purchasing is due by August 20th, 2024.
Ticket purchasing will be done through PayPal found at njaumccamps.org/50th OR checks made out to NJAUMC Camping Ministries, sent to our Camping Board Finance Chair Carol Tondo at 2313 Pacific Avenue, Manhattan Beach, CA 90266.
In addition, the Sunday following (10/13), we will be having a joint gathering/service at Centenary UMC at 2PM. Join us in continuing to fellowship together as we celebrate 50 years of camp! Please contact Rev. Karen if you have any questions.
Trunk or Treat! • Sunday, October 27th after Worship Service
Trunk-or-Treat is a wonderful opportunity for our church to provide a safe trick-or-treat experience for families.
Costumes are encouraged! We love to see everyone dressed up, even the adults!
Once again, please be sensitive in regards to costumes that are too scary or gory. We also ask that your costume not have a mask that covers your entire face of that your face is painted in a way that makes you unrecognizable. For safety reasons, all adults should be able to recognize the faces of the other adults.
Would you like to participate and/or decorate your trunk? Please contact Jennifer Lew.
Afghanistan and Ukrainian Refugee Donation Ministry
Items being collected: At this time, we have an abundance of some items and so we are NOT in need of clothing or children’s toys. Especially needed items include women’s products, toothpaste, personal care items, rice cookers, blenders, mixing bowls, microwave ovens, toasters, mixers, irons, dish sets, towels, and blankets.
Blaine Memorial UMC Collection Hours: Collection items can be dropped off at the Blaine Memorial Social Hall from Tuesday-Friday between 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM. Please call the Church Office at (206) 723-1536 prior to dropping off your items.
South King County Response Center Collection Volunteer Hours: The Donation Center is open on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays from 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM, same time as the Tukwila Pantry at 3118 S. 140th St. Seattle. Please text Kim Parks at (206) 683-1707 when you would like to help. Please wear a mask and bring a marking pen and measuring tape if possible. Other Questions? Please contact Donna Sekijima or Anne Arakaki-Lock.
Can our Blaine Memorial members give 10% to build a new kin-dom here on earth? If not our time, what talents can we give during this stewardship season?
Stewardship: 90 is Greater than 100
By Anne Arakaki-Lock
I just read an article about 90 being more than 100. Go figure.
Some of you may know where I may be going with this as it is Stewardship season and each of us will decide what to give this coming year. The idea is that if you tithe 10% of what you make, you get way more back than what you had before giving.
In Malachi’s day, God required people to tithe. Even in the New Testament, Luke 6:38 said, “Give and it will be given to you.” I might add, since everything we have belongs to God, should we really keep 100% of what He gives us or can we “spare” at least 10% to help build his kingdom “on earth, as it is in heaven?” Just wondering.
“Bring the tithe into the storehouse, that there may be food in my house. Test me in this,” says Lord Almighty, “and see if I will not throw open the floodgates of heaven and pour out so much blessing that there will not be room enough to store it.” -Malachi 3 NIV.
Tithing means trusting that God will provide. We’re essentially acknowledging that everything belongs to God — 100%. So, when we “sow our seeds” in faith and return some resources for His work, we’re obeying and showing our dependence on Him. We are also waiting for God to pour out His blessings on us in a big way. We’ll have so much given to us that we won’t even have room to store all of it. Tithing is a chance for us to be in sync with God’s purpose to provide for His people and sow love. It’s a privilege to be God’s partner. So, we give with a cheerful heart.
I pray, Lord, that as your children of Blaine Memorial, we each take time to search deep in our hearts this giving season, trust You to continue to sow tons of blessings on us, and show our faithfulness by being generous to others. Amen.
Anne Arakaki-Lock is a member of Blaine Memorial UMC.
Read more Spiritual Formation content from Anne Arakaki-Lock
Announcements
Prayers and Coffee on Zoom • Wednesdays at 9am
Join Rev. Karen for prayer and community on Wednesdays at 9:00 AM on Zoom. Our time together consists of brief check-ins, devotionals, and prayers. This is a great way to start your morning, clear and center your mind, all while connecting with God and your prayer community. Feel free to bring a cup of coffee, tea, and a bite to eat. Hope to see you on Wednesday.
Read about Mission Guatemala in the latest Beacon!
Bazaar 2024 is coming! Mark your calendars for this awesome event! Pre-order your favorite foods by clicking on the image above!
Blaine Memorial Bazaar and Mission Guatemala
A portion of the proceeds will benefit Mission Guatemala. Mission Guatemala helps meet the basic needs and improve the quality of life of underserved Guatemalan people through health, education, and nutrition initiatives and meaningful missionary service. Together, we can make a difference!
Bazaar: Volunteers Needed!
We cannot do this without our trusted volunteers to help out at Bazaar! We need help grilling, cooking, making ohagi, selling baked goods, etc. Please sign up in the Social Hall.
Please contact Lesley Okura (okura5@aol.com) if you have any questions.
Volunteer Pie-Makers Needed!
We are in GREAT need for many volunteers, at least 30 people for Pie Making, on October 3 at 10:00AM! We will be working in the LAC to make and bake pies for the Bazaar!
Baked Goods Also Needed!
Do you love to bake? We need baked goods donations for our Bake Goods booth at the Bazaar! We’re seeking donations of baked mochi, manju, brownies and cookies. Please bring them in on Saturday, October 5 before 10:00AM!
Blaine’s special 120th Anniversary Aprons are created from cotton rice bags
Purchase Anniversary Aprons, October 5!
Wow, we are so grateful and excited to see the many rice bags that were generously donated to us recently by Jean Okazaki! Jean’s daughter, Kathleen, read of Blaine’s need for more rice bags and responded! Now our capable and hard working sewers are busy making more of our special 120th Anniversary Aprons.
They will be available for sale at our upcoming Bazaar on October 5th or through the church office. They are $40 and we are happy to accept more; the additional dollars would be considered a donation.
Fall Book Study: “Context: Putting Scripture in Its Place”
You’re invited to join Rev. Dr. John Miyahara (UMC Navy Chaplain), Rev. Brian Lee (Simpson UMC in Arvada, CO), and congregation members of the Japanese American United Methodist Caucus in a 6-week book study. We will be reading Context: Putting Scripture in its Place. Please note that reading the book isn’t required!
Books are available in the Church Office for $17.00. The study will begin on Tuesday, October 1, 2024 from 6:30-8:00 PM. The Zoom link will be sent out closer to the beginning of the book study date. Please contact Rev. Karen will any questions.
The Rev. Karen Yokota Love speaks during a QA session with clergy during Asian Camp 2024.
Asian Camp 50th Anniversary Event (Southern California) • October 12
Calling all Asian Camp campers, counselors, directors, past and present! RSVP for this years AC 50th anniversary event on October 12! RSVPs & ticket purchasing is due by August 20th, 2024.
Ticket purchasing will be done through PayPal found at njaumccamps.org/50th OR checks made out to NJAUMC Camping Ministries, sent to our Camping Board Finance Chair Carol Tondo at 2313 Pacific Avenue, Manhattan Beach, CA 90266.
In addition, the Sunday following (10/13), we will be having a joint gathering/service at Centenary UMC at 2PM. Join us in continuing to fellowship together as we celebrate 50 years of camp! Please contact Rev. Karen if you have any questions.
Afghanistan and Ukrainian Refugee Donation Ministry
Items being collected: At this time, we have an abundance of some items and so we are NOT in need of clothing or children’s toys. Especially needed items include women’s products, toothpaste, personal care items, rice cookers, blenders, mixing bowls, microwave ovens, toasters, mixers, irons, dish sets, towels, and blankets.
Blaine Memorial UMC Collection Hours: Collection items can be dropped off at the Blaine Memorial Social Hall from Tuesday-Friday between 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM. Please call the Church Office at (206) 723-1536 prior to dropping off your items.
South King County Response Center Collection Volunteer Hours: The Donation Center is open on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays from 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM, same time as the Tukwila Pantry at 3118 S. 140th St. Seattle. Please text Kim Parks at (206) 683-1707 when you would like to help. Please wear a mask and bring a marking pen and measuring tape if possible. Other Questions? Please contact Donna Sekijima or Anne Arakaki-Lock.
Along with kitchen construction and dental care, the Mission Guatemala team held Vacation Bible School for about 30 children in the local Mayan community.
Mission Guatemala brings health, hope, and faith to impoverished community
By Donna Sekijima
From August 16 through August 24, our Blaine mission team (19 from Blaine Memorial and 3 from Mt. Vernon First UMC) traveled to Panajachel, Guatemala in Central America, working with a UMC related organization, Mission Guatemala. They are a faith-based non-profit organization that serves the indigenous Mayan people and currently provides a medical clinic, pharmacy, and on-site lab in the San Andres Semetebaj area.
Through Mission Guatemala, we learned about Guatemala’s history, the Mayan culture and some of the difficulties Guatemala still face. More than 50% of rural Guatemalan children suffer from chronic malnutrition, which ranks 6th in the world in child malnutrition. The Guatemalan government only provides education up to 6th grade, and the costs of and access to middle school (average $25/month) and high school (average $50/month) are out of reach for most rural indigenous families. Mission Guatemala is trying to combat this by running a scholarship program for middle and high school students, a nutritional support program for chronically malnourished children, and other community health and vocational training programs.
Volunteers from Blaine Memorial UMC help local Guatemalans with rebar.
Our construction project was to help build a second floor kitchen at a middle school in Godinez so they can prepare and serve nutritious snacks and meals to the students. Since we were just the second team working on this project, it was more of a deconstruction! Some of our team jack hammered and pickaxed a layer of defective cement from the rooftop (which will be the kitchen floor), some collected the concrete debris into buckets and sifted sand from it (to be used later), and some created holes in the outside walls and inserted steel floor support beams (to be re-cemented in later). Other team members wire tied rebar together, creating rectangular columns for supporting the walls. Although construction was physically hard work (with lots of water breaks), at the end it was very rewarding to see the progress we made in four working days.
How did Blaine Memorial’s mission team help Guatemalans? Read more about how Blaine Memorial worked on construction, dental care, and spiritual formation.
Our team dentists worked at the Mission Guatemala medical clinic on the scholarship students who needed dental care. Some of our team helped with instrument sterilization, assisting the dentists, administering fluoride treatments, interpreting in Spanish and giving patients oral hygiene instructions.
The majority of our construction team took two afternoons off to conduct a Vacation Bible School in Chuisajcap. Around 30 children sang, listened to Bible stories, colored pictures, took photos, folded origami, blew bubbles, played Frisbee, played soccer and ran around outside on the sport court that our 2019 Guatemala mission team helped build. Most of all, there were smiles, laughter and fun!
How can we do all the good we can? Donna Sekijima provides a comprehensive report of Blaine Memorial UMC’s contribution to the local Mayan community through Mission Guatemala!
Many of us on our Blaine mission team didn’t know each other well before the trip, but everyone worked together, supported each other, laughed, ate and sweated together and became more than just teammates – we became a family. We had a wonderful experience, knowing in our own small way, that we are loving our neighbor as Jesus taught us, and trying to “do all the good you can.”
We are so thankful for Mission Guatemala’s great care of our team with amazing staff, comfortable and beautifully landscaped accommodations and deliciously prepared meals and coffee!
Thank you, Blaine community, for all your prayers and support!
Team Members: Anne Arakaki-Lock, Joshua Akiyama, Milo Choe, Nina Choe, Judy Kuo, Laura Gilbert, Kenji Guess, Alice Ikeda, Howard Nakase, Jill Nishi, Katelyn Nakase, Zachary Nakase, Janet Sekijima, Margaret Sekijima, Bob Sekijima, Donna Sekijima, Lourdes Tifre, Pastor Zulma Tifre, Stacy Lopez, Martin Yagi, Teresa Yagi, Pearl Yamamoto
Announcements
Prayers and Coffee on Zoom • Wednesdays at 9am
Join Rev. Karen for prayer and community on Wednesdays at 9:00 AM on Zoom. Our time together consists of brief check-ins, devotionals, and prayers. This is a great way to start your morning, clear and center your mind, all while connecting with God and your prayer community. Feel free to bring a cup of coffee, tea, and a bite to eat. Hope to see you on Wednesday.
Read about Mission Guatemala in the latest Beacon!
Bazaar 2024 is coming! Mark your calendars for this awesome event! Pre-order your favorite foods by clicking on the image above!
Blaine Memorial Bazaar and Mission Guatemala
A portion of the proceeds will benefit Mission Guatemala. Mission Guatemala helps meet the basic needs and improve the quality of life of underserved Guatemalan people through health, education, and nutrition initiatives and meaningful missionary service. Together, we can make a difference!
Bazaar: Volunteers Needed!
We cannot do this without our trusted volunteers to help out at Bazaar! We need help grilling, cooking, making ohagi, selling baked goods, etc. Please sign up in the Social Hall.
Please contact Lesley Okura (okura5@aol.com) if you have any questions.
Volunteer Pie-Makers Needed!
We are in GREAT need for many volunteers, at least 30 people for Pie Making, on October 3 at 10:00AM! We will be working in the LAC to make and bake pies for the Bazaar!
Baked Goods Also Needed!
Do you love to bake? We need baked goods donations for our Bake Goods booth at the Bazaar! We’re seeking donations of baked mochi, manju, brownies and cookies. Please bring them in on Saturday, October 5 before 10:00AM!
Blaine’s special 120th Anniversary Aprons are created from cotton rice bags
Purchase Anniversary Aprons, October 5!
Wow, we are so grateful and excited to see the many rice bags that were generously donated to us recently by Jean Okazaki! Jean’s daughter, Kathleen, read of Blaine’s need for more rice bags and responded! Now our capable and hard working sewers are busy making more of our special 120th Anniversary Aprons.
They will be available for sale at our upcoming Bazaar on October 5th or through the church office. They are $40 and we are happy to accept more; the additional dollars would be considered a donation.
Fall Book Study: “Context: Putting Scripture in Its Place”
You’re invited to join Rev. Dr. John Miyahara (UMC Navy Chaplain), Rev. Brian Lee (Simpson UMC in Arvada, CO), and congregation members of the Japanese American United Methodist Caucus in a 6-week book study. We will be reading Context: Putting Scripture in its Place. Please note that reading the book isn’t required!
Books are available in the Church Office for $17.00. The study will begin on Tuesday, October 1, 2024 from 6:30-8:00 PM. The Zoom link will be sent out closer to the beginning of the book study date. Please contact Rev. Karen will any questions.
The Rev. Karen Yokota Love speaks during a QA session with clergy during Asian Camp 2024.
Asian Camp 50th Anniversary Event (Southern California) • October 12
Calling all Asian Camp campers, counselors, directors, past and present! RSVP for this years AC 50th anniversary event on October 12! RSVPs & ticket purchasing is due by August 20th, 2024.
Ticket purchasing will be done through PayPal found at njaumccamps.org/50th OR checks made out to NJAUMC Camping Ministries, sent to our Camping Board Finance Chair Carol Tondo at 2313 Pacific Avenue, Manhattan Beach, CA 90266.
In addition, the Sunday following (10/13), we will be having a joint gathering/service at Centenary UMC at 2PM. Join us in continuing to fellowship together as we celebrate 50 years of camp! Please contact Rev. Karen if you have any questions.
Afghanistan and Ukrainian Refugee Donation Ministry
Items being collected: At this time, we have an abundance of some items and so we are NOT in need of clothing or children’s toys. Especially needed items include women’s products, toothpaste, personal care items, rice cookers, blenders, mixing bowls, microwave ovens, toasters, mixers, irons, dish sets, towels, and blankets.
Blaine Memorial UMC Collection Hours: Collection items can be dropped off at the Blaine Memorial Social Hall from Tuesday-Friday between 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM. Please call the Church Office at (206) 723-1536 prior to dropping off your items.
South King County Response Center Collection Volunteer Hours: The Donation Center is open on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays from 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM, same time as the Tukwila Pantry at 3118 S. 140th St. Seattle. Please text Kim Parks at (206) 683-1707 when you would like to help. Please wear a mask and bring a marking pen and measuring tape if possible. Other Questions? Please contact Donna Sekijima or Anne Arakaki-Lock.
