Spiritual Formation

Spiritual Formation Center Comments Off on Spiritual Formation Center

Spiritual Formation Center

Posted by on Mar 26, 2024 in Church News & Events, Congregational Care, Lenten Season, Spiritual Formation, Weekly Calendar

Easter is Resurrection Day!

By Anne Arakaki-Lock

t was prophesied in the Old Testament:

“I know my Redeemer lives, and that in the end, he will stand on the earth. And after my skin has been destroyed, yet in my flesh, I will see God. “ Job 19:25-26.

God’s timing is always so perfect. As I am writing this article, at the same time I’m now getting text messages from my cousin about my aunty’s memorial service and inurnment in Hawaii. As I contact the pastor, think about the program, and select Scriptures, as I think about the eulogy, I am so at peace and joyful. 

You see, my Aunty became a Christian later in life, enjoying her newfound faith before her dementia set in. We went to church together when I was there caring for my mom. Aunty enjoyed going to the church at Kahala Mall. She often told me that she would pray. There was always something or someone to pray about. So as her memorial was being discussed last week, my uncle didn’t hesitate. He wanted a Christian service for her. I praise God for this. 

I know where Aunty is. In fact, as family will be flying in from Seattle and the Bay Area to join our Hawaii ohana, we will look forward to an Easter-like day in Hawaii at Diamond Head Cemetery. Yes, it will definitely be a celebration.

I love knowing that my mom and dad, Jesus, are with her now. It is comforting. There is no guessing where Aunty is and how she’s doing. 

Easter, Resurrection Sunday marks Jesus’ victory over death, showing us his power to conquer evil and to give us a pain free, loving, beautiful everlasting life with him. Aunty’s last few years with Alzheimer’s Disease were rough. But now, she will live a wonderful life in eternity with God. “Now the dwelling of God is with men, and he will live with them. They will be his people, and God himself will be with them and be their God. He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain” Revelation 21:3-4.

“Jesus said to her, ‘I am the resurrection and the life. The one who believes in me will live, even though they die; and whoever lives believing in me will never die. Do you believe this?’” John 11:25-26

Anne Arakaki-Lock is a member of Blaine Memorial UMC.

Announcements

Read the latest issue of the Beacon!

Our March-April issue of the Beacon newsletter is ready for view – with more of the great news and insights Blaine Memorial UMC has to offer!

You can access past issues in our archive.

.

Wednesday Meditation & Prayer • Every Wednesday

The Wednesday Prayer group continues to meet each week. Our time together consists of a check-in question centering around United Methodist Founder John Wesley’s famous question, “How is it with your soul?” Our time together continues with a few readings from The Upper Room Magazine. Finally, we end our time together with a pastoral prayer. Join us!

Educational Scholarships 2024, Apply Now! • Due May 15, 2024

The Blaine Memorial United Methodist Church Educational Scholarships are designed to support the mission of the church through supporting a multitude of educational opportunities. We are proud to have helped students in their pursuit of continuing education since 1968. We encourage all applicants; from those just entering their next phase of education to those returning to complete or pursue continued education.

We are blessed to offer the following scholarships:

  • Vera Ing Scholarship
  • Blaine Memorial United Methodist Church Scholarship
  • Yasuda Scholarship
  • William S. Yorozu Scholarship
  • Robert S. Sato Scholarship

Applications are available through emailing Blaine Scholarships or through the church office. All scholarships will consider, but are not limited to, elements such as grades (if applicable), personal essay, church participation and finances. Applications and two (2) letters of recommendation must be received no later than May 15, 2024 for consideration.

We are looking forward to applicants excited about pursuing their education.

View the March-April 2024 Calendar

Stay connected with Blaine Memorial on Facebook!

Learn More
Associate Pastor’s Spiritual Reflection Comments Off on Associate Pastor’s Spiritual Reflection

Associate Pastor’s Spiritual Reflection

Posted by on Mar 26, 2024 in Church News & Events, Lenten Season, Pastors' Columns, Prayer, Sermons, Spiritual Formation, Weekly Calendar

John Lim and Harry Tong prepare delicious bag lunches for residents of Tent City 3. The children of Blaine Memorial UMC made 80 lunches to serve community.

Lent & Easter: What does God want you to replace?

By the Rev. Mia MiKyung Park

How is your Lent going? I am curious and excited to know how your Lent has been going this year. Lent brings me such a deep sense of self-examination and reflection, which draws me into repentance, renewal, and hope. I like to choose a theme for Lent and Easter each year, and this year, I’ve decided the theme is “Replacing.” As I reflect on the theme, I recognize many aspects of myself that need to be replaced with something else.

I desire to replace disappointment with hope, knowing that God’s plans are greater than my own. Isaiah 55:8-9 tells us, “My plans aren’t your plans, nor are your ways my ways,” says the Lord. “Just as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways, and my plans than your plans.” In moments of disappointment, I seek to replace it with hope, reminding myself that there is a reason to be hopeful in Jesus, who conquers death to prove God’s unfailing and steadfast love.

I desire to replace anxiety with trust, believing that God is in control, and I am a witness to God’s mysterious works. The Apostle Paul advises us in Philippians 4:6-7, “Don’t be anxious about anything; rather, bring up all of your requests to God in your prayers and petitions, along with giving thanks. Then the peace of God that exceeds all understanding will keep your hearts and minds safe in Christ Jesus.” Though challenges may overwhelm me, I remind myself to surrender my anxiety to God, who listens and answers in God’s time.

I desire to replace resentment with peace, finding solace in the words of our Lord Jesus who gives us true peace, saying, “Peace I leave with you. My peace I give you. I give to you not as the world gives. Don’t be troubled or afraid” (John 14:27). In times of turmoil, I find peace in knowing that God’s love surrounds me, calming my troubled heart.

Because of God’s grace, I am hopeful that I can lay down my disappointment, anxiety, resentment, etc., before God and ask them to be replaced with hope, trust, peace, etc.

I want to ask you: what do you think that God wants you to replace?

Our Church School children made 80 lunch bags for the residents at Tent City 3 on Sunday, February 4. Thanks to all the children, teachers, and dads who joyfully made the lunch bags to donate to Tent City 3. Also, I express my gratitude to those who provided individually packed snacks. I am thankful for this wonderful teamwork at Blaine! As a community, we continue to be the hands and feet of our Lord Jesus, embodying Christ’s love and compassion for those in need. The Church School’s March memorization verse is Revelation 3:20, where we are reminded, “Listen! I am standing at the door, knocking; if you hear my voice and open the door, I will come in and eat with you, and you with me.” Let us open our hearts to God’s presence and allow God to guide us on our Lenten journey of replacing old habits and attitudes with God’s love and grace.

God resurrected Jesus from the death which replaces human finitude to God’s eternity. I invite all of us to continue replacing what we don’t need with what we must have. May this Lenten season be a time of reflection, renewal, and transformation for us all, and may our Easter be a time of hope and rejoicing!

The Rev. Mia MiKyung Park is the Associate Pastor of Blaine Memorial UMC.

Announcements

Read the latest issue of the Beacon!

Our March-April issue of the Beacon newsletter is ready for view – with more of the great news and insights Blaine Memorial UMC has to offer!

You can access past issues in our archive.

.

Wednesday Meditation & Prayer • Every Wednesday

The Wednesday Prayer group continues to meet each week. Our time together consists of a check-in question centering around United Methodist Founder John Wesley’s famous question, “How is it with your soul?” Our time together continues with a few readings from The Upper Room Magazine. Finally, we end our time together with a pastoral prayer. Join us!

Educational Scholarships 2024, Apply Now! • Due May 15, 2024

The Blaine Memorial United Methodist Church Educational Scholarships are designed to support the mission of the church through supporting a multitude of educational opportunities. We are proud to have helped students in their pursuit of continuing education since 1968. We encourage all applicants; from those just entering their next phase of education to those returning to complete or pursue continued education.

We are blessed to offer the following scholarships:

  • Vera Ing Scholarship
  • Blaine Memorial United Methodist Church Scholarship
  • Yasuda Scholarship
  • William S. Yorozu Scholarship
  • Robert S. Sato Scholarship

Applications are available through emailing Blaine Scholarships or through the church office. All scholarships will consider, but are not limited to, elements such as grades (if applicable), personal essay, church participation and finances. Applications and two (2) letters of recommendation must be received no later than May 15, 2024 for consideration.

We are looking forward to applicants excited about pursuing their education.

View the March-April 2024 Calendar

Stay connected with Blaine Memorial on Facebook!

Learn More
Innovation Hub Update Comments Off on Innovation Hub Update

Innovation Hub Update

Posted by on Mar 25, 2024 in Church News & Events, Congregational Care, Innovation Hub, Lenten Season, Service Opportunities, Spiritual Formation, Weekly Calendar

Lynne Onishi recently visited the Farminary at Princeton Theological Seminary where students learn about both theology and ecology.

Fueling new growth, change for future

By Lynne Onishi

Hello! As we journey through Lent and the Easter season, I wonder what kind of reflections you’re having about God, your spiritual life, and what it means to be a neighbor. I’m reminded of my time at the Farminary at Princeton Theological Seminary this past Fall. The seminary has its own farm, where students learn about ecology and theology. Our cohort toured the farm and listened as the director, Nathan Stucky, explained the origins of the Farminary and offered words of wonder and intrigue about what God might be communicating through the land.

Fresh carrots from the Farminary at Princeton Theological Seminary.

Through storytelling, quiet reflection, finding peace in the beautiful natural surroundings, and the act of working the land (I was selected to harvest carrots!), I found myself surprised by all that God was telling me about life and death. What does the compost pile of my own life look like? What is dying or dead in my own life? And how might God take that very same material and transform it into fertilizer for new growth?

The Resurrection is a reminder that God springs forth renewal and new life from what we once thought was dead. But in a world full of so much death and destruction, I struggle to believe that message of hope at times. How can I have hope when Palestinian families are dying underneath rubble, and the world just watches? How will God bring justice, hope, and healing to people living under occupation or to people who have been trafficked and remain unsafe or to people living behind bars and separated from their families because they seek a better life in a new country? Lord, in your mercy… Hear our prayer.

It’s not hard to see why people of my generation maintain such a cynical view of our world. Death and despair are all around us. And we’ve simply never seen a world that tells a different story. But what if we could imagine a world that truly reflects the Kin-dom of God? What kind of waste from our world do we need to compost in order to fuel new growth and actual change for our present and our future? May this Easter be a reminder that God is not done transforming death into life.

Spring Reconciling Ministries Book Study

The Reconciling team will begin hosting a new book study this Spring. We’ll read and discuss the book Outside the Lines by author and pastor Mihee Kim-Kort. 

Kim-Kort’s book explores the relationship between queerness and spirituality. Queerness is not only an identity that many of us hold but a lens through which we can begin to understand God’s love for us. 

Books can be purchased at the Church office for $16. 

This book study is open to anyone who would like to participate! The Book Study Group will meet every Thursday evening at 7:00 PM on Zoom. We will read and discuss one chapter per week and open up space for questions, reflections, and sharing with one another.

The Innovation Hub and Reconciling Ministries Teams are always looking for new folks to join us. If you feel called to lend your voice to these important ministries, we invite you to join us at our next team zoom meeting. Please contact Lynne or any of the other team members for more information. Questions? Send an email.

Announcements

Read the latest issue of the Beacon!

Our March-April issue of the Beacon newsletter is ready for view – with more of the great news and insights Blaine Memorial UMC has to offer!

You can access past issues in our archive.

.

Wednesday Meditation & Prayer • Every Wednesday

The Wednesday Prayer group continues to meet each week. Our time together consists of a check-in question centering around United Methodist Founder John Wesley’s famous question, “How is it with your soul?” Our time together continues with a few readings from The Upper Room Magazine. Finally, we end our time together with a pastoral prayer. Join us!

Educational Scholarships 2024, Apply Now! • Due May 15, 2024

The Blaine Memorial United Methodist Church Educational Scholarships are designed to support the mission of the church through supporting a multitude of educational opportunities. We are proud to have helped students in their pursuit of continuing education since 1968. We encourage all applicants; from those just entering their next phase of education to those returning to complete or pursue continued education.

We are blessed to offer the following scholarships:

  • Vera Ing Scholarship
  • Blaine Memorial United Methodist Church Scholarship
  • Yasuda Scholarship
  • William S. Yorozu Scholarship
  • Robert S. Sato Scholarship

Applications are available through emailing Blaine Scholarships or through the church office. All scholarships will consider, but are not limited to, elements such as grades (if applicable), personal essay, church participation and finances. Applications and two (2) letters of recommendation must be received no later than May 15, 2024 for consideration.

We are looking forward to applicants excited about pursuing their education.

View the March-April 2024 Calendar

Stay connected with Blaine Memorial on Facebook!

Learn More
BYG Update Comments Off on BYG Update

BYG Update

Posted by on Mar 25, 2024 in Blaine Youth Group, Church News & Events, Prayer, Service Opportunities, Small Groups, Spiritual Formation, Weekly Calendar

The Blaine Youth Group worked extra hard to help support Sukiyaki 2024 preparing delicious food for the community.

The Meaning of Lent

By Kaylee Yokoyama, photos by Kai Yamamoto

Upcoming Events
Saturday, March 30
• Easter Breakfast Prep
Sunday, March 31
• Easter Breakfast

As we journey through Lent, we continually remind ourselves of what we give up for Lent this year. When I reflect on Lent, I find that it is a time for me to challenge myself to grow in my relationship with God, through acknowledging the blessings in my life. During this Lent season, we encourage the youth to reflect on the meaning of Lent and how they may practice it through prayer, fasting, and almsgiving. In February, we had a lesson plan dedicated to Lent in which the youth set their Lent goals through brainstorming ways in which they can practice Lent through the three pillars. Through this season of Lent in BYG we aim to encourage the youth to meet their Lent goals by providing support and guidance through our check-ins and holding one another accountable.

Blaine recently celebrated our annual Sukiyaki event! Sukiyaki is a fan favorite at Blaine where the youth are able to gather and practice service. Through the dedication of the youth’s time and spirits, the youth held a successful youth booth where they sold waters and sodas. Additionally, the youth also helped out at other stations around Sukiyaki.

Thank you, Blaine Congregation, for continuing to support youth throughout various Blaine events! Please make sure to keep a look out for upcoming BYG events, news, and announcements.

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.

Announcements

Read the latest issue of the Beacon!

Our March-April issue of the Beacon newsletter is ready for view – with more of the great news and insights Blaine Memorial UMC has to offer!

You can access past issues in our archive.

.

Wednesday Meditation & Prayer • Every Wednesday

The Wednesday Prayer group continues to meet each week. Our time together consists of a check-in question centering around United Methodist Founder John Wesley’s famous question, “How is it with your soul?” Our time together continues with a few readings from The Upper Room Magazine. Finally, we end our time together with a pastoral prayer. Join us!

Educational Scholarships 2024, Apply Now! • Due May 15, 2024

The Blaine Memorial United Methodist Church Educational Scholarships are designed to support the mission of the church through supporting a multitude of educational opportunities. We are proud to have helped students in their pursuit of continuing education since 1968. We encourage all applicants; from those just entering their next phase of education to those returning to complete or pursue continued education.

We are blessed to offer the following scholarships:

  • Vera Ing Scholarship
  • Blaine Memorial United Methodist Church Scholarship
  • Yasuda Scholarship
  • William S. Yorozu Scholarship
  • Robert S. Sato Scholarship

Applications are available through emailing Blaine Scholarships or through the church office. All scholarships will consider, but are not limited to, elements such as grades (if applicable), personal essay, church participation and finances. Applications and two (2) letters of recommendation must be received no later than May 15, 2024 for consideration.

We are looking forward to applicants excited about pursuing their education.

View the March-April 2024 Calendar

Stay connected with Blaine Memorial on Facebook!

Learn More
Passion and Palm Sunday Comments Off on Passion and Palm Sunday

Passion and Palm Sunday

Posted by on Mar 24, 2024 in Blaine Youth Group, Church News & Events, Congregational Care, Giving, Lenten Season, Prayer, Sermons, Service Opportunities, Small Groups, Spiritual Formation, Sunday Worship, Weekly Calendar

All are Welcome

Order of Worship

*Processional Prelude
Hosanna, Laud Hosanna
By Hofkapelle
Kathy Onishi
*Welcome of Grace and Greeting
Rev. Karen Yokota Love
*Call to Worship
By Shuman
Rev. Karen Yokota Love
*Opening Hymn
Hosanna, Laud Hosanna
UMH #278
Kathy & Eugene Onishi
Opening Prayer
Rev. Karen Yokota Love
First Scripture Reading
Mark 11:1-11 (JLB, CEB)
Yuki Sofronas & Jill Fluvog
Children’s Message
Rev. Karen Yokota Love
Special Music
Triumphal Entry
By Drennan/Williams
Blaine Memorial Choir
Pastoral Prayer
Rev. Karen Yokota Love
Second Scripture Reading
Philippians 2:5-11 (JLB, NRSVUE)
Yuki Sofronas & Jill Fluvog
Sermon
The Power of Humility, Servanthood, and Obedience
Rev. Mia MiKyung Park
Hymn of Reflection
More Like You
TFWS #2167
Kathy and Eugene Onishi
Introduction to the Offering
Rev. Mia MiKyung Park
Offertory Music
The Walk to Calvary
By N. Anderson
Blaine Memorial Choir
*Doxology
Praise God, from Whom All Blessings Flow
UMH #94
*Prayer of Dedication
Rev. Mia MiKyung Park
Announcements
Rev. Karen and Friends
*Closing Hymn
The Old Rugged Cross
UMH #504
Kathy & Eugene Onishi
*Benediction
Rev. Mia MiKyung Park
Postlude
Lamb of God
By T. Paris
Kathy Onishi
*Passing of the Peace
Rev. Mia MiKyung Park
Zoom Breakout Room
Rev. Dr. Jeney Park-Hearn

Lectionary Questions

  • How does the humility of Christ, as described in this passage, challenge our modern understanding of power and authority and our cultural values of individualism and self-promotion?
  • Reflect on the implications of Jesus’ obedience unto death on a cross. What does this reveal about the nature of God’s love and redemption?
  • Reflect on the significance of Jesus taking on the form of a servant. How does this impact our understanding of leadership within the Christian community?
  • How can we practically apply the principles found in this passage to our relationships, workplaces, and communities?

Daily Lectionary Readings

Sunday, March 24, 2024: Liturgy of the Palms
Psalm 118:1-2, 19-29 • Mark 11:1-11 or John 12:12-16
Sunday, March 24, 2024: Liturgy of the Passion
Isaiah 50:4-9a • Psalm 31:9-16 • Philippians 2:5-11 • Mark 14:1-15:47 or Mark 15:1-39, (40-47)
Monday, March 25, 2024: Annunciation of the Lord
Isaiah 7:10-14 • Psalm 45 or Psalm 40:5-10 • Hebrews 10:4-10 • Luke 1:26-38
Monday, March 25, 2024: Monday of Holy Week
Isaiah 42:1-9 • Psalm 36:5-11 • Hebrews 9:11-15 • John 12:1-11
Tuesday, March 26, 2024: Tuesday of Holy Week
Isaiah 49:1-7 • Psalm 71:1-14 • 1 Corinthians 1:18-31 • John 12:20-36
Wednesday, March 27, 2024: Wednesday of Holy Week
Isaiah 50:4-9a • Psalm 70 • Hebrews 12:1-3 • John 13:21-32
Thursday, March 28, 2024: Maundy Thursday
Exodus 12:1-4, (5-10), 11-14 • Psalm 116:1-2, 12-19 • 1 Corinthians 11:23-26 • John 13:1-17, 31b-35
Friday, March 29, 2024: Good Friday
Isaiah 52:13-53:12 • Psalm 22 • Hebrews 10:16-25 or Hebrews 4:14-16; 5:7-9 • John 18:1-19:42
Saturday, March 30, 2024: Holy Saturday
Job 14:1-14 or Lamentations 3:1-9, 19-24 • Psalm 31:1-4, 15-16 • 1 Peter 4:1-8 • Matthew 27:57-66 or John 19:38-42

Announcements

Order Easter Lillies Today!

Download the PDF form and print at home. Forms are needed by today!

Read the latest issue of the Beacon!

Our March-April issue of the Beacon newsletter is ready for view – with more of the great news and insights Blaine Memorial UMC has to offer!

You can access past issues in our archive.

Lent Book Study

FINAL NIGHT! NJAUMC Lenten Book Study ends on Monday, March 25!

You’re invited to join Rev. John Miyahara, Rev. Brian Lee, and members of the National Japanese American United Methodist Caucus (NJAUMC) congregations for the final night of the 6-week Lenten Zoom book study.

Author and Theologian Magrey DeVega will be present to converse with the students and answer any questions! The group has been reading Savior: What the Bible Says about the Cross by Magrey DeVega. Please note that reading the book isn’t required and you can come as you are to meet new people. Join us for our final meeting tomorrow, Monday, March 25 from 4:30-6:00 PM (Hawaii), 6:30-8:00 PM (Pacific) and 7:30-9:00 PM (Mountain).

Wednesday Meditation & Prayer • Every Wednesday

The Wednesday Prayer group continues to meet each week. Our time together consists of a check-in question centering around United Methodist Founder John Wesley’s famous question, “How is it with your soul?” Our time together continues with a few readings from The Upper Room Magazine. Finally, we end our time together with a pastoral prayer. Join us!

Collaborative Good Friday Worship with Japanese Baptist Church • Friday, March 29

This year, Blaine Memorial UMC is invited to the annual collaborative Good Friday Service with Japanese Baptist Church (JBC) at 7:00PM. 

JBC is hosting Blaine Memorial UMC with the annual tradition of worshiping together on Good Friday beginning with a simple soup supper meal at 6:00PM, followed with worship at 7:00PM. 

Join us as we remember Jesus’ final words and actions before being crucified. We’ll remember Jesus’ love for us. JBC is located at 160 Broadway, Seattle, WA 98122.

We are organizing a carpool from Blaine Memorial UMC to JBC due to limited parking. Please email the Church Office at blaineoffice@yahoo.com by Thursday (3/28), if you would like a ride. We will meet on Friday (3/29) at 5:00PM in the Blaine parking lot. 

Sunday, March 31: Easter Sunday Schedule

Join us on Sunday, March 31 to celebrate the Risen Christ!

Easter Breakfast: Join us for Easter Breakfast in the LAC at 8:30AM as the Blaine Youth Group (BYG) will prepare, cook, and serve the breakfast. There will be two opportunities to eat: 8:30AM and after worship!

Flowering of the Cross: One of the most meaningful traditions that we celebrate on Easter Sunday is the Flowering of the Cross. It symbolizes new life in Christ. We invite all who are attending Easter Sunday worship (in person) to bring flowers from your garden (trimmed to a short stem). These flowers will be placed on the cross as you enter the Sanctuary for Easter worship.

Easter Egg Hunt: The Church School invites children to participate in an Easter Egg Hunt in the Courtyard (weather permitting). Please remind children to bring their own baskets, and feel free to invite your grandchildren, friends, and neighbors to join us for the hunt! 

Educational Scholarships 2024, Apply Now! • Due May 15, 2024

The Blaine Memorial United Methodist Church Educational Scholarships are designed to support the mission of the church through supporting a multitude of educational opportunities. We are proud to have helped students in their pursuit of continuing education since 1968. We encourage all applicants; from those just entering their next phase of education to those returning to complete or pursue continued education.

We are blessed to offer the following scholarships:

  • Vera Ing Scholarship
  • Blaine Memorial United Methodist Church Scholarship
  • Yasuda Scholarship
  • William S. Yorozu Scholarship
  • Robert S. Sato Scholarship

Applications are available through emailing Blaine Scholarships or through the church office. All scholarships will consider, but are not limited to, elements such as grades (if applicable), personal essay, church participation and finances. Applications and two (2) letters of recommendation must be received no later than May 15, 2024 for consideration.

We are looking forward to applicants excited about pursuing their education.

View the March-April 2024 Calendar

Stay connected with Blaine Memorial on Facebook!

Learn More
Fifth Sunday in Lent Comments Off on Fifth Sunday in Lent

Fifth Sunday in Lent

Posted by on Mar 17, 2024 in Blaine Youth Group, Church News & Events, Congregational Care, Giving, Innovation Hub, Lenten Season, Prayer, Sermons, Service Opportunities, Small Groups, Spiritual Formation, Sunday Worship

All are Welcome!

Order of Worship

Prelude
Love the Lord Your God
By Jean and Jim Strathdee
Kathy Onishi
Welcome of Grace and Greeting
Rev. Mia MiKyung Park
*Call to Worship
Rev. Mia MiKyung Park
*Opening Hymn
Come, Thou Fount of Every Blessing
UMH #400
Kathy & Eugene Onishi
Opening Prayer
Rev. Mia MiKyung Park
First Scripture Reading
John 12:20-33 (JLB, CEB)
Yuki Sofronas & Dale Watanabe
Children’s Message
Rev. Mia MiKyung Park
Blessing of the Blankets
Rev. Karen Yokota Love & Rev. Mia MiKyung Park
Special Music
Lord, Sanctify Me Wholly
By Thomas Ken and Jean Pasquet
Blaine Memorial Choir
Second Scripture Reading
Matthew 18:15-22 (JLB, CEB)
Yuki Sofronas & Dale Watanabe
Sermon
How Many Times Should We Forgive?
Rev. Karen Yokota Love
Affirmation of Faith
Rev. Karen Yokota Love
Hymn of Reflection
My Hope Is Built UMH #368
(Verses 1-2, 4)
Kathy & Eugene Onishi
Introduction to the Offering
Dale Watanabe
*Doxology
Praise God, from Whom All Blessings Flow
UMH #94
*Prayer of Dedication
Dale Watanabe
Announcements
Rev. Karen and Friends
*Closing Hymn
Seek the Lord UMH #124
Kathy & Eugene Onishi
*Benediction
Rev. Karen Yokota Love
Postlude 
It Is Well with My Soul
By Bliss/Carter
Kathy Onishi
Zoom Breakout Room 
Rev. Dr. Jeney Park-Hearn

Sermon Questions

  • Some translate Jesus’ response to Peter’s question in Matthew 18:22 as “seventy-seven times” and others translate it as “seventy times seven.” What is the significance of this? How do you calculate the math of grace?
  • What would this look like if applied on a larger scale, such as in our criminal justice system? Are there any specific situations or circumstances where you would choose not to follow this advice?
  • What do you think of Jesus’ step-by-step advice for dealing with conflict? Have you ever followed this when someone hurt you? How did that go?
  • Do we need to forgive a person if they haven’t asked for forgiveness yet?

Announcements

A beautiful landscape view of green plants on hills and Volcan de Fuego mountains on the horizon in Antigua, Guatemala

Guatemala Mission Meeting • Today

Our second Guatemala mission meeting will be Sunday, March 17 at 11:45 a.m. in the Webb Room. We hope to get a rough count on who is going so we can start looking into airfare. The trip date is August 16-24, 2024, only about 5 months away. If you can’t make the meeting but still are interested in going, please let us know.

Order Easter Lillies Today!

Download the PDF form and print at home. Forms are needed by Sunday, March 24.

Read the latest issue of the Beacon!

Our February-March issue of the Beacon newsletter is ready for view. The March 2024 issue will be available very soon with more of the great news and insights Blaine Memorial UMC has to offer!

You can access past issues in our archive.

Wednesday Meditation & Prayer • Every Wednesday

The Wednesday Prayer group continues to meet each week. Our time together consists of a check-in question centering around United Methodist Founder John Wesley’s famous question, “How is it with your soul?” Our time together continues with a few readings from The Upper Room Magazine. Finally, we end our time together with a pastoral prayer. Join us!

Lent Book Studies

The Third Day: Living the Resurrection Lenten Book Study

This year’s All Church Lenten study is The Third Day: Living the Resurrection by Tom Berlin and Mark A. Miller. Join us in this Zoom study on Tuesdays at 7:00PM, which is being facilitated by Rev. Mia MiKyung Park and Rev. Karen Yokota Love. The link will be emailed prior to the meeting date. Our last meeting will be March 19.

The Office is selling The Third Day: Living the Resurrection books for $14.00 and the Leader Guide is $12.00. You are welcome to buy the book in the Office and read with your small groups. 

In The Third Day: Living the Resurrection, Tom Berlin uses his storytelling gifts and scriptural understanding to connect readers to the experiences of individuals around Jesus in his final days. The focus is on new life and redemption rather than loss.

Come and journey with characters like Peter, Mary Magdalene, and Thomas as they experience the despair of losing Jesus and the surprise and joy that awaits them in the resurrection. This study will explore events around these characters, along with Paul and the disciples at Emmaus, and how the resurrection transforms their lives.

NJAUMC Lenten Book Study continues until March 25!

Join Rev. John Miyahara (UMC/US Navy Chaplain), Rev. Brian Lee (Simpson UMC), and members of the Japanese American United Methodist Caucus congregations in a 6-week Lenten book study. We are reading Savior: What the Bible Says about the Cross by Magrey DeVega. Books are $17.00 in the Church Office. Please note that reading the book isn’t required! Join us tomorrow, Monday, March 18 from 4:30-6:00 PM (Hawaii), 6:30-8:00 PM (Pacific) and 7:30-9:00 PM (Mountain). The study will conclude on Mon., March 25.

Educational Scholarships 2024, Apply Now! • Due May 15, 2024

The Blaine Memorial United Methodist Church Educational Scholarships are designed to support the mission of the church through supporting a multitude of educational opportunities. We are proud to have helped students in their pursuit of continuing education since 1968. We encourage all applicants; from those just entering their next phase of education to those returning to complete or pursue continued education.

We are blessed to offer the following scholarships:

  • Vera Ing Scholarship
  • Blaine Memorial United Methodist Church Scholarship
  • Yasuda Scholarship
  • William S. Yorozu Scholarship
  • Robert S. Sato Scholarship

Applications are available through emailing Blaine Scholarships or through the church office. All scholarships will consider, but are not limited to, elements such as grades (if applicable), personal essay, church participation and finances. Applications and two (2) letters of recommendation must be received no later than May 15, 2024 for consideration.

We are looking forward to applicants excited about pursuing their education.

Stay connected with Blaine Memorial on Facebook!

Learn More