Kai Yamamoto, outgoing Associate Co-Director of the Blaine Youth Group, shares his deepest thanks for the community that supported his spiritual growth.
Dear Blaine Congregation, BYG Leaders, and families,
It has been an honor and a privilege to serve as a Blaine Youth Group associate co-director alongside Kaylee Yokoyama and Lynne Onishi. I am so grateful for the opportunity to serve in this role, as BYG has done so much for me. I have been a part of BYG since 6th grade — about 10 years ago. Wow, it’s been a long time!
BYG had a White Elephant gift exchange at a BYG Christmas party overnighter. Everyone had a marvelous time!
BYG has been a place where I felt loved, supported, and cared for by fellow youth, leaders, and directors. These friendships that I’ve developed are very meaningful and will last for the rest of my life! Although it is sad for me to announce that I am resigning from my role, I know that God will take care of this community. As a youth, a leader, and now as an outgoing associate co-director of BYG, from experience, I know that the BYG will continue to provide the same love and support for others in need.
The BYG Youth and Leadership have a joyful time during game night!
To our BYG youth and families, thank you so much for supporting us. I am so grateful for you all offering your love, support, and time! BYG would not be the same without you all! To the Blaine Congregation, thank you so much for coming to our bake sales, buying Suno Dogs, and always supporting our fundraisers and youth! I appreciate all the support you all have shown to our Youth Group!
Revs. Mia MiKyung Park and Karen Yokota Love provide communion during a BYG event.
To Lynne, Kaylee, Rev. Karen, and Rev. Mia, thank you all so much for believing in me and for pushing me to be the best version of myself. You all have helped create an amazing environment for our youth. I couldn’t do my job without you all! Thank you!
And finally, to all my previous and current youth leaders, thank you so much for showing me what a loving and caring community looks like. Thank you for looking after me and helping me to develop into the person I am today! I am excited to see BYG grow and develop this coming year and see our amazing youth group flourish!
Sincerely,
Kai Yamamoto
Outgoing Associate Co-Director, Blaine Youth Group
Blaine Memorial class of 2024 grads along with friends and family celebrate together!
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 and neighbor. BYG has a space for any person who is interested. Associate Director of Youth Ministry: Kaylee Yokoyama.
Important dates for September and October 2024:
Our BYG campers enjoy a fun week of Asian Camp with plenty of outdoor games, worship, workshops, and the “messy day” experience.
September 8 • Rally Sunday
September 22 • Camping Ministries Sunday
October 5 • Bazaar
Bazaar 2024 is coming! Mark your calendars for this awesome event! More info to come!
Check out this year’s Scholarship Award Recipients for 2024!
Other Announcements
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.
Beacon Newsletter Announcement
During September, stories and content for Blaine Memorial UMC’s newsletter, the “Beacon” will be uploaded to our website blaineonline.org. It is a busy time for Rev. Karen as she continues to search for support staff to lead our youth and perform other tasks to continue maintaining Blaine Memorial’s vibrant ministry. We are also working to improve our printing services and our ministry online – which also need time to develop.
Stay connected through announcements in our Sunday Worship Bulletin and at blaineonline.org. You can also follow Blaine Memorial UMC on
Wednesday, August 28, 2024 Semi-continuous: Psalm 11; 1 Kings 6:15-38; John 15:16-25; Complementary: Psalm 119:97-104; Isaiah 33:10-16; John 15:16-25
Thursday, August 29, 2024 Semi-continuous: Psalm 45:1-2, 6-9; Song of Solomon 1:1-17; James 1:1-8; Complementary: Psalm 15; Exodus 32:1-14; James 1:1-8
Friday, August 30, 2024 Semi-continuous: Psalm 45:1-2, 6-9; Song of Solomon 2:1-7; James 1:9-16; Complementary: Psalm 15; Exodus 32:15-35; James 1:9-16
Saturday, August 31, 2024 Semi-continuous: Psalm 45:1-2, 6-9; Hosea 3:1-5; John 18:28-32; Complementary: Psalm 15; Exodus 34:8-28; John 18:28-32
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.
On August 30, 2024, the Japanese American Citizens League will debut its “Remembrance Gallery” at the Washington State Fairgrounds.
Remembrance Gallery to open soon! • August 30, 2024
Blaine Memorial UMC is invited to a private viewing of the Remembrance Gallery on Opening Day of the Washington State Fair! The Puyallup Valley Japanese American Citizens League is cordially inviting us to a special viewing at 10:30am to see the brand-new Remembrance Gallery at the Washington State Fairgrounds on Friday, August 30, 2024.
We are currently organizing a carpool. We will leave Blaine at 9:00AM to arrive at the Washington State Fairgounds by 10:30AM. This opportunity comes with free admission and free parking at the fairgrounds. Please contact Yuki at blaineoffice@yahoo.com if you are interested in going to this much anticipated event. We need a solid head count by Wednesday, August 28. Thank you!
Tsuru for Solidarity Presents: Liberation Obon!
September 1, 2024, 1:00pm to Dusk
Outside the Northwest Detention Center (NWDC) 1623 E J Street, Tacoma, WA 98421
Shut down NWDC! Liberation Obon will celebrate ancestors and resilience to end immigrant detention! Join La Resistencia and Tsuru for Solidarity as we protest wrongful imprisonment.
Activities will include:
Traditional circle and street folk dancing
Children’s art making
Giant Daruma!
Community food trucks Healing ceremonies
Speakers from inside NWDC
Wear your heritage clothing! Blaine will organize a group to go to the obon after worship! Please contact Rev. Karen is you’re interested in participating!
Reflections on 120 Years of Grace Discussion Sessions • 9/15, 9/22, 10/13, 10/20
The Archives Committee is sponsoring a four-part 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 11:45 AM-12:45 PM after Sunday worship in the Webb Room. Light refreshments will be served.
The first session, titled “Go Forth in Hope,” will discuss the early church from 1904 to 1941. The second session, titled “Strong in Hope,” will discuss the incarcerated church in WW II and the postwar rebuilding of the church to 1964. The third 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.
The Archives Committee is organizing a “competition” organized by Shig Nishida. Submit your reflections on the history and future of Blaine Memorial UMC. Submit 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 at blaineoffice@yahoo.com 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.
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.
Saturday, August 24, 2024 Semi-continuous: Psalm 84; 1 Kings 5:1-12; Luke 11:5-13; Complementary: Psalm 34:15-22; Joshua 22:21-34; Luke 11:5-13
Announcements
Vacation Bible School 2024 Concludes!
Theme: Operation Restoration – Mending God’s World Time: 10am to 12pm, including lunch
Location: BMUMC Church School Classrooms
Registration: $20 per Sunday per child, Additional Campers from same family $15. We will register your kiddo on the day of VBS. If you have not registered it is still not too late. We will continue to accept new registrations all the way up to the last day of VBS Sunday! Visit blaineonline.org for registration!
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.
Reflections on 120 Years of Grace Discussion Sessions • 9/15, 9/22, 10/13, 10/20
The Archives Committee is sponsoring a four-part 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 11:45 AM-12:45 PM after Sunday worship in the Webb Room. Light refreshments will be served.
The first session, titled “Go Forth in Hope,” will discuss the early church from 1904 to 1941. The second session, titled “Strong in Hope,” will discuss the incarcerated church in WW II and the postwar rebuilding of the church to 1964. The third 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.
The Archives Committee is organizing a “competition” organized by Shig Nishida. Submit your reflections on the history and future of Blaine Memorial UMC. Submit 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 at blaineoffice@yahoo.com 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.
On August 30, 2024, the Japanese American Citizens League will debut its “Remembrance Gallery” at the Washington State Fairgrounds.
Remembrance Gallery to open soon! • August 30, 2024
Blaine Memorial UMC is invited to a private viewing of the Remembrance Gallery on Opening Day of the Washington State Fair! The Puyallup Valley Japanese American Citizens League is cordially inviting us to a special viewing at 10:30am to see the brand-new Remembrance Gallery at the Washington State Fairgrounds on Friday, August 30, 2024.
We are currently organizing a carpool. We will leave Blaine at 9:00AM to arrive at the Washington State Fairgounds by 10:30AM. This opportunity comes with free admission and free parking at the fairgrounds. Please contact Yuki at blaineoffice@yahoo.com if you are interested in going to this much anticipated event. We need a solid head count by Wednesday, August 28. Thank you!
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.
Tsuru for Solidarity Presents: Liberation Obon!
September 1, 2024, 1:00pm to Dusk
Outside the Northwest Detention Center (NWDC) 1623 E J Street, Tacoma, WA 98421
Shut down NWDC! Liberation Obon will celebrate ancestors and resilience to end immigrant detention! Join La Resistencia and Tsuru for Solidarity as we protest wrongful imprisonment.
Activities will include:
Traditional circle and street folk dancing
Children’s art making
Giant Daruma!
Community food trucks Healing ceremonies
Speakers from inside NWDC
Wear your heritage clothing! Blaine will organize a group to go to the obon after worship! Please contact Rev. Karen is you’re interested in participating!
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.
The Blaine Youth Group got together for a quick photo at Asian Camp 2024 at Camp Gilmore in California.
BYG Update Camping Edition: Asian Camp 2024
Why Asian Camp is Important for the Future
By Edwin Santos, additional photos by the Rev. Karen Yokota Love
This year’s Asian Camp in California prepares youth for their faith journeys, “Yesterday, Today, and Forever”.
The 2024 Asian Camp was held at Camp Gilmore in Calabasas, CA from July 14-19, 2024. Asian Camp had youth from various states such as Washington, Colorado, and the majority being from California. As a first-time attendee, it was great to be part of the Asian American community, especially when observing the Blaine Youth Group (BYG) as part of worship, outdoor activities, and faith moments.
The theme of Asian Camp “Yesterday, Today, and Forever” focuses on the growth of our identities. Fellow campers were each part of a “Growth Group” that included a counselor throughout the duration of the camp. The program tied very well with current life and identity themes with Christ in an ever changing world. As we recognize where God showed up in our past, we can anticipate his presence today, and plan for it in our tomorrow.
Compared to other youth camps that I have attended, the food at Asian Camp was delicious and nutritious! Youth camp meals tend to be bland, but Asian Camp checked all the boxes in flavor, nutritional value, and variety!
Having an excellent experience for youth is important because of their dwindling numbers in the church. If the youth do not have a welcoming experience in a camp, then they won’t return for future events. Not only are youth the future, they are the present and they need to be provided a space for all youth in order for them to grow in Christ for the future.
Emma and Katelyn pop balloons over their fellow competitors after a victorious win during the water balloon toss!
Parents are also important in the camp experience. They can help keep the lessons learned from Asian camp relevant by making sure that their children attend future camps so that they can stay up to date with what’s going on in their community. It’s crucial to have camps based on affinity/culture so that the youth can stay connected to their history and culture. I also believe that it is very important that people of color be part of other camps because in the eyes of God we are one family; we are God’s family.
Lastly, the theme of faith is part of daily life for our youth. Growing up, many of them are experiencing the hardships of being part of the world but not fully responsible or in control of it. Being reminded of the importance of faith in life is vital for youth in their walk as a believers of Christ.
Edwin Santos attends Blaine Memorial UMC in Seattle, Washington.
Asian Camp 2024 Reactions
This year’s AC provided great experiences for our young people. Let’s hear what they had to say about camp!
“I really enjoyed Asian Camp. I attended Junior High Camp for the past two years so going to Asian Camp was really “reconciling-ish.” My favorite moment was being part of the (community with the) same faith and similar background. The theme of the camp was “Yesterday, Today, and Forever”. It was very centered on the future and how you can still change it and let God lead the way. It’s not set in stone yet.”
-Mia I.
“It was a fun and welcoming experience. We had a lot of fun activities like water day and a banquet. I’ll remember those moments.”
-Annabelle A.
BYG will not meet on Sunday mornings throughout the summer. We encourage youth and families to attend worship together at 10:00am in-person and via live stream!
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 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.
Theme: Operation Restoration – Mending God’s World Time: 10am to 12pm, including lunch
Location: BMUMC Church School Classrooms
Registration: $20 per Sunday per child, Additional Campers from same family $15. We will register your kiddo on the day of VBS. If you have not registered it is still not too late. We will continue to accept new registrations all the way up to the last day of VBS Sunday! Visit blaineonline.org for registration!
From August 16 through August 24, a Blaine mission team (20 from Blaine Memorial and 3 from Mt. Vernon First UMC) will be going on a trip to Guatemala in Central America. We will be working mostly with the indigenous Mayan people near the town of Panajachel by Lake Atitlan with a UMC related organization, Mission Guatemala (www.missionguatemala.com). Mission Guatemala is “a faith-based 501(c)3 non-profit organization with a mission to help meet the basic needs and improve the quality of life of under-served and impoverished Guatemalan peoples through health, education and nutrition initiatives and missionary service”. We will have a Vacation Bible School with crafts, games, lots of laughter and fun.
Our construction crew will help build a kitchen at the junior high school in Godinez. Our dental team will be serving Mission Guatemala’s scholarship children at the medical clinic in San Andres, Semetabaj. Most of all, we will be building friendships with the missionaries and staff at Mission Guatemala, with the local families living in the area, and with our team members. We are excited about the opportunity to share and receive God’s love with people of a different culture.
We ask Blaine church members to please pray for safe travels, building relationships with those we meet and showing Christ’s love through our actions and words. Thank you for 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, Rev. Karen Yokota Love
Tsuru for Solidarity Presents: Liberation Obon!
September 1, 2024, 1:00pm to Dusk
Outside the Northwest Detention Center (NWDC) 1623 E J Street, Tacoma, WA 98421
Shut down NWDC! Liberation Obon will celebrate ancestors and resilience to end immigrant detention! Join La Resistencia and Tsuru for Solidarity as we protest wrongful imprisonment.
Activities will include:
Traditional circle and street folk dancing
Children’s art making
Giant Daruma!
Community food trucks Healing ceremonies
Speakers from inside NWDC
Wear your heritage clothing! Blaine will organize a group to go to the obon after worship! Please contact Rev. Karen is you’re interested in participating!
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.
Junior High Camp (incoming 6th-9th grade) was held on June 23-28, 2024 at Camp Lodestar in Wilseyville, California.
BYG Update Camping Edition: Junior High Camp 2024
Finding Your True Self
By Kai Yamamoto
Those with sound thoughts you will keep in peace, in peace because they trust in you. Trust in the Lord forever, for the Lord is a rock for all ages.
–Isaiah 26: 3-4
The theme for Junior High Camp this year was “Trust”. We followed Isaiah 26: 3-4, a song about Trusting in God. But what does it look like to trust in God?
During camp, the Rev. Keith Inouye presented his sermon on how Peter trusted the Lord – when he stepped off the boat and walked on water. The water was turbulent, and he had many fears, yet he trusted in the Lord and the Lord took care of him. After listening to his sermon, I reflected on the journey that took me back to JHC this year.
I had not attended Junior High Camp or Asian Camp for several years prior, and this was my first year back. As a camper, JHC was not for me. I did not enjoy attending JHC; it was hard to make friends at camp. But like Peter, I stepped off the boat. I decided that I would make the trip alongside Aidan Lew, who also had not attended JHC or Asian Camp for a few years. Aidan decided that this year he would counsel JHC, even though he had not seen many of his fellow counselors in a while. But we trusted that the Lord would take care of us for the week and allow us to have a great time –and we did!
Tyler and Jordan alongside Counselor Aidan dressed up and ready for etiquette dinner.
“Counseling JHC was honestly one of the best experiences of my life! I felt my connection with God grew through experiences that both my campers and fellow counselors taught me. Being able to spend time with and learn from my campers in my growth group was an incredible experience. JHC has been so important in how I’ve developed as a Christian for years. Even though camp is transitioning into a new era, the same values and traditions that have made it special for people of so many generations are still very strong. I got to witness camp magic firsthand…I encourage everyone to keep supporting camping ministries as a whole so we can grow our camp community even more. I look forward to counseling and creating more memories in the future!”
-Aiden Lew
Jordan enjoying the night on the dance floor.
Although there were many familiar faces, there were also many new ones, too, and I had a great time. Connecting with the fellow adult staff, campers, counselors, and directors was a great experience! I was able to feel the camp magic for the first time, although from a different perspective. I saw our youth, Jordan and Tyler, connect with friends they had not seen since last year and have so much fun! I was also able to see a bond between Aidan and the other counselors, and how tight knit the entire group was! It was hard for everyone to say goodbye at the end of the week. But in trusting God, I know They will bring us all back together next year!
Leadership from this year’s Junior High Camp gather for a photo including adult staff, JHC directors, and our own BYG co-associate director Kai Yamamoto.
Now going back to the question, what does it look like to trust in God? Pastor Yoshi Kuramoto discussed how we must know that “God wants goodness for you and to find your truest self—not just for you, but for the person next to you, and the person next to that”.
To Trust in God is to find ourselves and to be ourselves. We are going to be loved and cared for, no matter who we are and our past experiences.
Kai Yamamoto serves as a co-director of the Blaine Youth Group.
Upcoming Events
August 24, 2024: Asian Camp 50th Anniversary Basketball Tournament
BYG will not meet on Sunday mornings throughout the summer. We encourage youth and families to attend worship together at 10:00am in-person and via live stream!
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 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.
Theme: Operation Restoration – Mending God’s World Time: 10am to 12pm, including lunch
Location: BMUMC Church School Classrooms
Registration: $20 per Sunday per child, Additional Campers from same family $15. We will register your kiddo on the day of VBS. If you have not registered it is still not too late. We will continue to accept new registrations all the way up to the last day of VBS Sunday! Visit blaineonline.org for registration!
From August 16 through August 24, a Blaine mission team (20 from Blaine Memorial and 3 from Mt. Vernon First UMC) will be going on a trip to Guatemala in Central America. We will be working mostly with the indigenous Mayan people near the town of Panajachel by Lake Atitlan with a UMC related organization, Mission Guatemala (www.missionguatemala.com). Mission Guatemala is “a faith-based 501(c)3 non-profit organization with a mission to help meet the basic needs and improve the quality of life of under-served and impoverished Guatemalan peoples through health, education and nutrition initiatives and missionary service”. We will have a Vacation Bible School with crafts, games, lots of laughter and fun.
Our construction crew will help build a kitchen at the junior high school in Godinez. Our dental team will be serving Mission Guatemala’s scholarship children at the medical clinic in San Andres, Semetabaj. Most of all, we will be building friendships with the missionaries and staff at Mission Guatemala, with the local families living in the area, and with our team members. We are excited about the opportunity to share and receive God’s love with people of a different culture.
We ask Blaine church members to please pray for safe travels, building relationships with those we meet and showing Christ’s love through our actions and words. Thank you for 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, Rev. Karen Yokota Love
Tsuru for Solidarity Presents: Liberation Obon!
September 1, 2024, 1:00pm to Dusk
Outside the Northwest Detention Center (NWDC) 1623 E J Street, Tacoma, WA 98421
Shut down NWDC! Liberation Obon will celebrate ancestors and resilience to end immigrant detention! Join La Resistencia and Tsuru for Solidarity as we protest wrongful imprisonment.
Activities will include:
Traditional circle and street folk dancing
Children’s art making
Giant Daruma!
Community food trucks Healing ceremonies
Speakers from inside NWDC
Wear your heritage clothing! Blaine will organize a group to go to the obon after worship! Please contact Rev. Karen is you’re interested in participating!
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.
During February 2023, Lynne Onishi and Blaine Memorial participated in part II of the Day of Remembrance at the Northwest Detention Center in Tacoma, WA to protest worsening conditions inside NWDC.
Lynne to attend Claremont Seminary!
By Lynne Onishi, photos by Ryan Kozu, Kai Yamamoto, et. al.
Outgoing Blaine Youth Group Director and Innovation Hub Convener, Lynne Onishi, shares some memories and thank-yous for those she has served during her years of leadership at Blaine Memorial UMC. Thank you, Lynne for being a vibrant part of Blaine Memorial’s church history! Blessings to you as you embark on new adventures!
At the end of the summer, I’ll be moving to Los Angeles to begin a three-year Master of Divinity program at the Claremont School of Theology. It will be a big change in my life, and I ask for your continued prayers. I couldn’t take this next step without the care and support of my community at home!
Lynne Onishi supports Seattle First UMC during last year’s Pride Weekend.
This has not been an easy decision to make. I’ve been discerning this call to ministry for many years now and I feel like it’s finally time for me to take this next step forward. I’m excited for seminary and for all the new changes ahead, but this is truly a bittersweet moment for me. It’s hard to say goodbye to everything and everyone I’ve known.
It’s been seven years since I first began directing the youth ministry at Blaine Memorial in the fall of 2017. What I thought was just going to be a one-year college gig turned into a formative experience leading ministry. It has changed the trajectory of my life! Throughout this time, I have had the privilege of watching several young people grow up and become more fully themselves! We led ministry virtually for over a year! And in 2021, I embarked on a new project here leading the Blaine Innovation Hub and starting new ministries with young adults. My role has expanded to include leadership and ministry support in several areas since. I’ve been lucky to see the Spirit moving in so many ways!
Lynne Onishi and Blaine’s young adults hiked up to Lake 22 near Granite Falls, September 2023. Onishi served as a leader for both youth and young adults!
I wanted to take a moment to express some big thank-yous to this Blaine Memorial community who has walked alongside me. I want to extend my gratitude to the Innovation Hub team who has continually dreamed of new ideas and ways to engage young adults. I want to thank the reconciling team who has put so much thought and care into becoming a reconciling church. I will forever be grateful to the Blaine Youth Group leaders who show up each week and bring the energy with them. I want to thank the Blaine Memorial pastoral leadership past and present for your guidance in all things ministry, grad school, leadership, spiritual formation and life! I want to thank all the youth and their families who have been so supportive and receptive over the years.
The Innovation Hub held Zoom Bible Studies that covered various topics such as justice and inclusion. Lynne Onishi helped convened events that brought issues of LGBTQI+ inclusion to the forefront of Blaine Memorial’s ministry.
And I’d like to make a few shout-outs to the individuals who have been in the depths of this work with me over the years – my co-directors and co-conveners. You’ve made this work meaningful and transformative not only for the congregation but for me.
Firstly, I want to thank Kai Yamamoto and Kaylee Yokoyama for the ways you’ve stepped up to lead BYG alongside me for the last year and a half. You’ve put so much time and care into ministry with our leaders, youth, and families. It has been an honor to see you both grow into the leaders you are today!
Next, I need to make a big shoutout to Lawrence Paltep, who co-directed the youth ministry with me for over four years, including those uncertain and chaotic pandemic years! We accomplished so much thanks to your passion, creativity, and desire to try wild and wacky things!
Lastly, I want to thank Yoshi Kuramoto, who began this journey with me as my BYG co-director all the way back in 2017 and went on to lead the Innovation Hub and young adult ministry! I’m so proud of the work we’ve done together, and I am forever grateful for your encouragement to keep asking the questions and responding faithfully.
In 2023, the Innovation Hub hosted a family movie night in September! IH events like this provided opportunities for people of all ages to gather and enjoy meaningful, inspirational fellowship with friends of all ages.
As I transition to new places and new experiences, I hope the Blaine Memorial community will continue trying new ways to do ministry and dream about new possibilities for what this church can look like. I hope you may embrace the neighborhood and wider community that you’re part of. And may you continue to listen for God’s calling in all of this!
Lynne Onishi is the outgoing Youth Director for BYG, Innovation Hub Convener for Blaine Memorial UMC. Thank you for your service, Lynne and blessing on your journey at Claremont School of Theology!
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.
Theme: Operation Restoration – Mending God’s World Time: 10am to 12pm, including lunch
Location: BMUMC Church School Classrooms
Registration: $20 per Sunday per child, Additional Campers from same family $15. We will register your kiddo on the day of VBS. If you have not registered it is still not too late. We will continue to accept new registrations all the way up to the last day of VBS Sunday! Visit blaineonline.org for registration!
From August 16 through August 24, a Blaine mission team (20 from Blaine Memorial and 3 from Mt. Vernon First UMC) will be going on a trip to Guatemala in Central America. We will be working mostly with the indigenous Mayan people near the town of Panajachel by Lake Atitlan with a UMC related organization, Mission Guatemala (www.missionguatemala.com). Mission Guatemala is “a faith-based 501(c)3 non-profit organization with a mission to help meet the basic needs and improve the quality of life of under-served and impoverished Guatemalan peoples through health, education and nutrition initiatives and missionary service”. We will have a Vacation Bible School with crafts, games, lots of laughter and fun.
Our construction crew will help build a kitchen at the junior high school in Godinez. Our dental team will be serving Mission Guatemala’s scholarship children at the medical clinic in San Andres, Semetabaj. Most of all, we will be building friendships with the missionaries and staff at Mission Guatemala, with the local families living in the area, and with our team members. We are excited about the opportunity to share and receive God’s love with people of a different culture.
We ask Blaine church members to please pray for safe travels, building relationships with those we meet and showing Christ’s love through our actions and words. Thank you for 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, Rev. Karen Yokota Love
Tsuru for Solidarity Presents: Liberation Obon!
September 1, 2024, 1:00pm to Dusk
Outside the Northwest Detention Center (NWDC) 1623 E J Street, Tacoma, WA 98421
Shut down NWDC! Liberation Obon will celebrate ancestors and resilience to end immigrant detention! Join La Resistencia and Tsuru for Solidarity as we protest wrongful imprisonment.
Activities will include:
Traditional circle and street folk dancing
Children’s art making
Giant Daruma!
Community food trucks Healing ceremonies
Speakers from inside NWDC
Wear your heritage clothing! Blaine will organize a group to go to the obon after worship! Please contact Rev. Karen is you’re interested in participating!
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.
