Sunday Worship

Fourth Sunday after the Epiphany Comments Off on Fourth Sunday after the Epiphany

Fourth Sunday after the Epiphany

Posted by on Feb 2, 2025 in Blaine Youth Group, Church News & Events, Congregational Care, Giving, Miscellaneous, Prayer, Sermons, Service Opportunities, Small Groups, Spiritual Formation, Sunday Worship, Videos, Weekly Calendar

All are Welcome!

  • Fourth Sunday after Epiphany
  • February 2, 2025 • 10:00am
  • Hybrid Worship
  • View the PDF

Order of Worship

Prelude 
Gather Us In 
By Marty Haugen
Kathy Onishi 
Welcome of Grace and Greeting 
Rev. Karen Yokota Love
Blaine Memorial UMC Land Acknowledgment 
Call to Worship 
Written by Dr. Lisa Hancock, Discipleship Ministries, August 2024
Used with permission
Rev. Karen Yokota Love
Opening Hymn 
Draw Us in the Spirit’s Tether 
(UMH #632)
Kathy & Eugene Onishi
Opening Prayer
Kobe Yamamoto
Scripture Reading
Jeremiah 1:4-10 (JLB, CEB)
Tsutomu Nagoya, Kobe Yamamoto
Children’s Message 
Sai Hanaoka
Special Music
One Song
By Pepper Chopin 
Blaine Memorial UMC Choir
Second Scripture Reading
1 Corinthians 13:1-13 (JLB, NRSVUE)
Tsutomu Nagoya, Kobe Yamamoto
Third Scripture Reading
Luke 4:21-30 (JLB, NRSVUE)

Tsutomu Nagoya, Kobe Yamamoto
Sermon
Love Never Ends
Rev. Karen Yokota Love
Song of Reflection
Where Charity and Love Prevail
(UMH #549)
Kathy & Eugene Onishi
Holy Communion
Rev. Karen Yokota Love,
Rev. Dr. Jeney Park-Hearn
Introduction to the Offering
Kobe Yamamoto
Offertory Music
Kathy Onishi
Doxology
Praise God, from Whom All Blessings Flow
(UMH #94)
Kathy & Eugene Onishi
Prayer of Dedication
Kobe Yamamoto
Announcements
Rev. Karen Yokota Love
Closing Hymn
Compassion Hymn
By Keith Getty, Kristyn Getty, Stuart Townend
Kathy & Eugene Onishi
Benediction
Rev. Karen Yokota Love
Postlude
Make Me a Servant
By Kelly Willard
Kathy Onishi
Passing of the Peace 
Rev. Karen Yokota Love 
Zoom Breakout Room 
Rev. Dr. Jeney Park-Hearn
Today’s Flowers
Carol Kastrup

Sermon Questions

  • Which characteristics of love resonate most with you?
  • How can you apply these qualities to your relationships?
  • What areas of your life need to grow in love?
  • How does understanding God as love impact your daily actions?

Daily Lectionary Readings

Sunday, February 2, 2025: 
Jeremiah 1:4-10; Psalm 71:1-61; Corinthians 13:1-13; Luke 4:21-30
Malachi 3:1-4; Psalm 84; Psalm 24:7-10; Hebrews 2:14-18; Luke 2:22-40
Monday, February 3, 2025: 
Psalm 56; 1 Kings 17:8-16; 1 Corinthians 2:6-16
Tuesday, February 4, 2025: 
Psalm 56; 2 Kings 5:1-14; 1 Corinthians 14:13-25
Wednesday, February 5, 2025: 
Psalm 56; Jeremiah 1:11-19; Luke 19:41-44
Thursday, February 6, 2025: 
Psalm 138; Numbers 20:22-29; Acts 9:19b-25
Friday, February 7, 2025: 
Psalm 138; Numbers 27:12-23; Acts 9:26-31
Saturday, February 8, 2025: 
Psalm 138; Judges 3:7-11; Luke 4:42-44

Announcements

Prayer and Coffee • Wednesday, February 5, 2025 

Join Rev. Karen for prayer and community on Wednesday (2/5/25) at 9:00AM on Zoom. This is a great way to start your morning, clear and center your mind, all while connecting with God and your prayer community. Hope to see you on Wednesday.

NJAUMC Book Study During Epiphanytide

A new book study sponsored by the National Japanese American United Methodist Caucus continues next Tuesday (2/11). Rev. Brian Lee (Simpson UMC in Arvada, CO) and Rev. John Miyahara (UMC Navy Chaplain in San Diego, CA) will facilitate “Secret Harvests: A Hidden Story of Separation and the Resilience of a Family Farm” by David Mas Masumoto. We will gather virtually on Tuesday evenings from 6:30 PM – 8:00 PM. (PST). Below is our reading schedule:

Tuesday (2/11)
Parts 5 and 6
Tuesday (2/25)
Parts 7 and 8

Click here to join the Zoom link.

Books are on sale in the Church Office for $15.00 or you are free to purchase online at Amazon.com.

At the 2023 Day of Remembrance, a “Never Again is Now” banner adorned by colorful tsuru (origami cranes) reminds event attendees that the history of Executive Order 9066 and Japanese American incarceration still matter today.

Day of Remembrance Film Screening at Blaine Memorial UMC • February 19, 2025


Blaine Memorial UMC is partnering with the Seattle JACL and Puyallup Valley JACL to show the film, Removed by Force: The Eviction of Hawaii’s Japanese Americans During World II at 6:00pm in the Sanctuary. The film sheds light on the relatively unknown experiences of the 1,500 Americans of Japanese ancestry from 23 geographic areas in Hawai‘i who were evicted, but not interned, during World War II. 

Tsuru for Solidarity Press Conference • February 19, 2025

Did you know that before February 19, 1941, at least two-thirds of the produce vendors at Pike Place Market were Japanese American? With Executive Order 9066, all were gone by April. This February 19 at 10am, Tsuru will be holding a press conference at the Market to call attention to the fact that the Trump Administration is now threatening immigrants working at the Market today, with incarceration and deportation. We say “Stop Repeating History!”

At the press conference, Tsuru members will re-enact our 1941 forced removal by walking the Market in wearing period dress, and carrying old suitcases (just what they could carry). We will use our actions and words to stand up for immigrants and their families. We need your help.

Do you have clothing (men or women’s coats, suits, hats and especially suitcases we can borrow? We promise to take good care of these precious belongings as we protest. If you have any of these things, and/or would like to walk with us, please contact Margie Sekijima. Thank you Blaine Community for your ongoing support.

Click the image to visit our Sukiyaki 2025 page for updates on this year’s event!

Annual Sukiyaki Dinner • March 1, 2025

Blaine Memorial’s Sukiyaki Benefit Fundraiser is on Saturday, March 12025 from 1:00pm-6:00pm! Sukiyaki will be $20.00 per serving. We will have cooked and uncooked Sukiyaki. We will provide take out and have limited dine-in.  Visit the Sukiyaki 2025 page for updates!

Afghanistan and Ukrainian Refugee Donation Ministry at Riverton Park UMC!


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 to the Blaine Memorial Social Hall from Tuesday-Friday between 10:00AM-4:00PM. 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 10:00AM-2:00PM, same time as the Tukwila Pantry at 3118 S. 140th St. Seattle. Please text Kim Parks at (206) 683-1707 when you would like to help. Please wear a mask and bring a marking pen and measuring tape if possible. Other Questions? Please contact Donna Sekijima at: donnasek@outlook.com and/or Anne Arakaki-Lock at: salock@comcast.net.

A Season of Stewardship: Blaine Memorial UMC Supports Kimball Elementary (Video)

Beacon newsletter will return in February!

Our bi-monthly newsletter, the Beacon, will return in February! Check out our past issues here.

Learn More
Blaine Memorial UMC’s 120th and 121st Anniversary Sunday Comments Off on Blaine Memorial UMC’s 120th and 121st Anniversary Sunday

Blaine Memorial UMC’s 120th and 121st Anniversary Sunday

Posted by on Jan 26, 2025 in Archives, Blaine Youth Group, Church News & Events, Congregational Care, Episcopal News, Giving, Prayer, Sermons, Service Opportunities, Small Groups, Spiritual Formation, Sunday Worship, Videos

Reflecting on 120 (and 121) Years of Grace!

  • Blaine Memorial UMC’s 120th and 121st Anniversary Sunday
  • January 26, 2025 • 10:00am
  • Hybrid Worship
  • View the PDF

Order of Worship

Prelude
Holy, Holy, Holy
By John B. Dykes
Kathy Onishi
Welcome of Grace and Greeting
Rev. Karen Yokota Love
Call to Worship
Rev. David Nieda
Opening Hymn
You Are the Vine
Words and Music by Danny Daniels and Randy Rigbey
Blaine Praise Band
Opening Prayer
Rev. Shalom Agtarap
Special Music
Goodness of God
Written by Ed Cash, Ben Fielding, Jason Ingram, Brian Johnson and Jenn Johnson
Rev. Dr. Mark C. Hearn,
Rev. Dione Corsilles
First Scripture Reading
1 Corinthians 12:12-31 (JLB, CEB) 
Tsutomu Nagoya, Gail Nomura, Aidan Lew, Kaylee Yokoyama, 
Shigeru Nishida
Children’s Message
Sai Hanaoka
Church School Superintendent
Special Music
Be Thou My Vision
Arr. by Alice Parker
Blaine Memorial UMC Choir
Second Scripture Reading 
Ephesians 3:16-19 (JLB, NRSV) 
Tsutomu Nagoya, Lynne Onishi
Sermon
Rooted and Grounded…In Love!
Bishop Robert T. Hoshibata
Hymn of Reflection
What Gift Can We Bring
(UMH #87)
Eugene and Kathy Onishi
Special Music
Amazing Grace
By John Newton
(English and Japanese)
Blaine Ukulele Group of Seattle
Video Presentation
The Archives Committee
The Great Thanksgiving
Bishop Robert T. Hoshibata,
Bishop Cedrick D. Bridgeforth,
Rev. Cruz Edwin Santos,
Rev. Karen Yokota Love
Holy Communion Music
At This Table
By Idina Menzel
Marina Kozu 
Introduction to the Offering
Rev. Alann Hamada
Doxology
Praise God,
from Whom All Blessings Flow
Kathy Onishi
Prayer of Dedication
Rev. Alann Hamada
Announcements
Rev. Karen Yokota Love
Closing Hymn
Forever

Words by Chris Tomlin
Blaine Praise Band
Benediction
Rev. Karen Yokota Love
Postlude
One God and Father of Us All
Words and Music by
Pete Carlson and Kyle Matthews,
Arr. by Jerry Carraway
Kathy Onishi

Announcements

Congregational Photo • Immediately after worship in the Sanctuary


Immediately after worship, we’ll gather to take a congregational photo in the Sanctuary. This photo will include all of our dignitaries. Since we will be taking a group photo, we are canceling the Zoom Break Out Room. It will provide the opportunity for our facilitators to participate in the congregational photo. We’ll resume the Zoom Break Out Room on Sunday, February 2, 2025. 

Blaine Memorial’s 120th Anniversary Sunday Celebration and Potluck Information


Blaine Memorial UMC will have a 120th anniversary Sunday service with special guests and dignitaries from our past to celebrate and reflect on its 120-year history and look forward to its further growth and development into the next 120 years of service in love.  After the service there will be a potluck gathering and program with exhibits, entertainment, reunions with friends and family, and an honoring of church members who are 88+ years old by the end of January.  Please join us for the culminating celebration of our 120th anniversary and start of our 121st year!  We look forward to celebrating with all our members new and old and our many community friends to remember and renew our connections into the future. Please bring a potluck dish to share. All are welcome.

For the potluck we are asking folks to contribute some dishes to share with others.  (If you are single, please feel free to bring just one of the items.  If you are 88+ years old, you do not need to bring a dish.  This celebration is for you!).  

We hope you can join us for this special culmination celebration of our church’s 120th Anniversary.

NJAUMC Book Study During Epiphanytide

There’s a new book study sponsored by the National Japanese American United Methodist Caucus that will begin next Tuesday (1/21). Rev. Brian Lee (Simpson UMC in Arvada, CO) and Rev. John Miyahara (UMC Navy Chaplain in San Diego, CA) will facilitate “Secret Harvests: A Hidden Story of Separation and the Resilience of a Family Farm” by David Mas Masumoto. We will gather virtually on Tuesday evenings from 6:30 PM – 8:00 PM. (PST). Below is our reading schedule:

Tuesday (1/28)
Parts 3 and 4
Tuesday (2/11)
Parts 5 and 6
Tuesday (2/25)
Parts 7 and 8

Click here to join the Zoom link.

Books are on sale in the Church Office for $15.00 or you are free to purchase online at Amazon.com.

At the 2023 Day of Remembrance, a “Never Again is Now” banner adorned by colorful tsuru (origami cranes) reminds event attendees that the history of Executive Order 9066 and Japanese American incarceration still matter today.

Day of Remembrance Film Screening at Blaine Memorial UMC • February 19, 2025


Blaine Memorial UMC is partnering with the Seattle JACL and Puyallup Valley JACL to show the film, Removed by Force: The Eviction of Hawai?i’s Japanese Americans During World II at 6:00PM in the Sanctuary. The film sheds light on the relatively unknown experiences of the 1,500 Americans of Japanese ancestry from 23 geographic areas in Hawai‘i who were evicted, but not interned, during World War II. 

Annual Sukiyaki Dinner • March 1, 2025

Blaine Memorial’s Sukiyaki Benefit Fundraiser is for SATURDAY, MARCH 12025 from 1:00PM-6:00PM! Sukiyaki will be $20.00 each. We will have cooked and uncooked Sukiyaki. We will provide take out and have limited dine in. More information will be announced soon – stay tuned! 

Afghanistan and Ukrainian Refugee Donation Ministry at Riverton Park UMC!


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 to the Blaine Memorial Social Hall from Tuesday-Friday between 10:00AM-4:00PM. 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 10:00AM-2:00PM, same time as the Tukwila Pantry at 3118 S. 140th St. Seattle. Please text Kim Parks at (206) 683-1707 when you would like to help. Please wear a mask and bring a marking pen and measuring tape if possible. Other Questions? Please contact Donna Sekijima at: donnasek@outlook.com and/or Anne Arakaki-Lock at: salock@comcast.net.

A Season of Stewardship: Blaine Memorial UMC Supports Kimball Elementary (Video)

Beacon newsletter will return in February!

Our bi-monthly newsletter, the Beacon, will return in February! Check out our past issues here.

Learn More
Second Sunday after Epiphany Comments Off on Second Sunday after Epiphany

Second Sunday after Epiphany

Posted by on Jan 19, 2025 in Archives, Blaine Youth Group, Church News & Events, Congregational Care, Giving, Miscellaneous, Prayer, Sermons, Service Opportunities, Small Groups, Spiritual Formation, Sunday Worship, Videos, Weekly Calendar

Happy New Year!

  • Second Sunday after Epiphany
  • January 19, 2025 • 10:00am
  • Hybrid Worship
  • View the PDF

Order of Worship

Prelude
Taste and See

By James Moore
Kathy Onishi
Welcome of Grace and Greeting
Rev. Karen Yokota Love
Blaine Memorial UMC Land Acknowledgment
Call to Worship
Brad Miyake
Opening Hymn
Come My Way, My Truth, My Life
(UMH #164)
Kathy Onishi & Eugene Onishi
Opening Prayer
Brad Miyake
Scripture Reading
John 2:1-11 (JLB) 
Yuki Sofronas, Brad Miyake
Children’s Message
Sai Hanaoka
Special Announcement
Rev. Karen Yokota Love
Special Music
Here I Am, Send Me
Blaine Memorial UMC Choir
Sermon
Water to Wine
Rev. Karen Yokota Love
Song of Reflection
Jesus, Joy of Our Desiring
(UMH #644)
Kathy & Eugene Onishi
Introduction to the Offering
Brad Miyake
Offertory Music
Kathy Onishi
Doxology
Praise God, from Whom All Blessings Flow
(UMH #94)
Kathy & Eugene Onishi
Prayer of Dedication
Brad Miyake
Announcements
Rev. Karen Yokota Love
Closing Hymn
Become to Us the Living Bread
(UMH #630)
Kathy & Eugene Onishi
Benediction
Rev. Karen Yokota Love
Postlude
Soon and Very Soon
By Andrae Crouch
Kathy Onishi
Passing of the Peace
Rev. Karen Yokota Love
Zoom Breakout Room
Rev. Dr. Jeney Park-Hearn
Today’s Flowers
Miriam Tong

Sermon Questions

  • How did God speak to you through the scripture/sermon this week? 
  • What details from this story stand out to you? (Where is he, how much wine does he create, what does his mom ask of him, how does the master of the feast respond?) 
  • How does Jesus respond to his mom’s request? What does this show us about his mission?
  • What are some reasons Jesus begins his ministry with turning water into wine?
  • How do the seven signs help bolster our understanding of who Jesus is so that we may have eternal life?
  • Jesus was socially engaged in celebratory events in the lives of others. What does this tell us about how we should engage in the mission of God?

Daily Lectionary Readings

Sunday, January 19, 2025: Second Sunday after the Epiphany
Isaiah 62:1-5; Psalm 36:5-10; 1 Corinthians 12:1-11; John 2:1-11
Monday, January 20, 2025: 
Psalm 145; Isaiah 54:1-8; Romans 12:9-21;
Tuesday, January 21, 2025: 
Psalm 145; Song of Solomon 4:1-8; 1 Corinthians 1:3-17;
Wednesday, January 22, 2025: 
Psalm 145; Song of Solomon 4:9-5:1; Luke 5:33-39;
Thursday, January 23, 2025: 
Psalm 19; Isaiah 61:1-7; Romans 7:1-6;
Friday, January 24, 2025: 
Psalm 19; Nehemiah 2:1-10; Romans 12:1-8;
Saturday, January 25, 2025: 
Psalm 19; Nehemiah 5:1-13; Luke 2:39-52;

Announcements

A Celebration of Life Service for Sumi YoshiokaToday at 1pm

You’re invited to the public Celebration of Life Service for Sumiko “Sumi” Yoshioka for this Sunday, January 19, 2025 at 1:00 PM. There will be a reception to follow in the Lee Activity Center. A lifelong church member, she faithfully served as organist, pianist, choir and handbell choir director. She was known for her kindness, grace, and was an island girl at heart. Sumi’s Celebration of Life service will be live-streamed.

1967 Easter —Congregation

120th/121st Anniversary Sunday Service and Potluck • Sunday, January 26, 2025

(See more photos)

On January 26, 2025, Blaine Memorial UMC will have a 120th anniversary Sunday service with special guests from our past to celebrate and reflect on its 120-year history and look forward to its further growth and development into the next 120 years of service in love. After the service there will be a potluck gathering and program with exhibits, entertainment, reunions with friends and family, and an honoring of church members who are 88+ years old by the end of January. Please join us for the culminating celebration of our 120th anniversary and start of our 121st year! We look forward to celebrating with all our members new and old and our many community friends to remember and renew our connections into the future. Please bring a potluck dish to share. All are welcome.

For the potluck we are asking folks to contribute some dishes to share with others. (If you are single, please feel free to bring just one of the items. If you are 88+ years old, you do not need to bring a dish. This celebration is for you!). Potluck assignment recommendations are listed below by last name:

A-H:
Main dish/Salad
I-S:
Main dish/Rice
T-Z:
Main dish/ Dessert

NJAUMC Book Study During Epiphanytide

There’s a new book study sponsored by the National Japanese American United Methodist Caucus that will begin next Tuesday (1/21). Rev. Brian Lee (Simpson UMC in Arvada, CO) and Rev. John Miyahara (UMC Navy Chaplain in San Diego, CA) will facilitate “Secret Harvests: A Hidden Story of Separation and the Resilience of a Family Farm” by David Mas Masumoto. We will gather virtually on Tuesday evenings from 6:30 PM – 8:00 PM. (PST). Below is our reading schedule:

Tuesday (1/21)
Parts 1 and 2
Tuesday (1/28)
Parts 3 and 4
Tuesday (2/11)
Parts 5 and 6
Tuesday (2/25)
Parts 7 and 8

Click here to join the Zoom link.

Books are on sale in the Church Office for $15.00 or you are free to purchase online at Amazon.com.

Volunteers finish packing baked goods.

Blaine’s Benefit Sukiyaki NominationsDue Weds. Jan. 22, 2025

Blaine Memorial UMC’s Annual Sukiyaki will be on Saturday, March 1, 2025. Currently, the Sukiyaki Committee is seeking nominations for a beneficiary for the upcoming Sukiyaki event. Please submit a brief description of your recommended beneficiary recipient to the Church Office by Wednesday, January 22, 2025 (for review and approval by Ad Board). Beneficiary Nominations Forms are available in the Church Office.

If you have any questions, please contact Yuki Sofronas at our Church Office.

Prayer and Coffee • Wednesday, January 22, 2025 

Join Rev. Karen for prayer and community on Wednesday (1/22/25) at 9:00AM on Zoom. This is a great way to start your morning, clear and center your mind, all while connecting with God and your prayer community. Hope to see you on Wednesday.

Video: “A Season of Stewardship: Blaine Memorial UMC Supports Kimball Elementary”

With challenges such as food insecurity, a harsh economy, and homelessness, Blaine Memorial UMC has teamed with Kimball Elementary School to provide dinners through Thanksgiving Meals and presents through the Giving Tree.

Several members of the Blaine Memorial UMC Community, including its Blaine Youth Group (BYG), share what makes this lay-led ministry vital to the families in the neighborhood.

Visit our Original Videos page to view this story and more!

Learn More
First Sunday after Epiphany, Baptism of the Lord Sunday Comments Off on First Sunday after Epiphany, Baptism of the Lord Sunday

First Sunday after Epiphany, Baptism of the Lord Sunday

Posted by on Jan 12, 2025 in Blaine Youth Group, Church News & Events, Congregational Care, Giving, Miscellaneous, Prayer, Sermons, Service Opportunities, Small Groups, Spiritual Formation, Sunday Worship, Videos

All are Welcome!

  • First Sunday after Epiphany, Baptism of the Lord Sunday
  • January 12, 2025 • 10:00am
  • Hybrid Worship
  • View the PDF

Order of Worship

Prelude
Awesome God
By Rich Mullins
Kathy Onishi
Welcome of Grace and Greeting
Blaine Memorial UMC Land Acknowledgment
Rev. Karen Yokota Love
Call to Worship
Written by Dr. Lisa Hancock, Discipleship Ministries, July 2024
Used with permission
George Yates
Invocation (Unison)
George Yates 
Opening Hymn 
Come, Holy Spirit
(TFWS #2125)
Kathy Onishi & Eugene Onishi
First Scripture Reading
Luke 3:15-17, 21-22 (JLB, CEB) 
Children’s Message
Sai Hanaoka
Prayers of the People
Rev. Karen Yokota Love
Special Music
Washed Anew
By Thomas Keesecker
Blaine Memorial UMC Choir 
Second Scripture Reading
Isaiah 43:1-7 (JLB, CEB)
Yuki Sofronas, George Yates
Sermon
God With Us
Rev. Karen Yokota Love
Song of Reflection
Spirit Song
(UMH #347)
Kathy Onishi
Introduction to the Offering
George Yates
Offertory Music
Kathy Onishi
Doxology
Praise God, from Whom All Blessings Flow
(UMH #94)
Kathy Onishi & Eugene Onishi
Prayer of Dedication
George Yates
Announcements
Rev. Karen Yokota Love
Closing Hymn
Blessed Be the God is Israel
(UMH #209)
Kathy Onishi & Eugene Onishi
Benediction
Rev. Karen Yokota Love 
Postlude
All I Need is You
By Dan Adler
Kathy Onishi
Passing of the Peace
Rev. Karen Yokota Love 
Zoom Breakout Room
Rev. Dr. Jeney Park-Hearn
Today’s Flowers
Sharon Maeda

Sermon Questions

  • What does your baptism mean to you? 
  • What trials in your life have felt like passing through the waters or the fires?
  • How has God become more real to you through those experiences? 
  • What might have been your spiritual / emotional set-backs or struggles in times where you felt tested? 
  • What scripture verses did you apply to your situation? Did you reach out to a friend for help? 

Daily Lectionary Readings

Sunday, January 12, 2025:
Baptism of the Lord:
Isaiah 43:1-7
Psalm 29
Acts 8:14-17
Luke 3:15-17, 21-22
Monday, January 13, 2025: 
Psalm 106:1-12 
Judges 4:1-16 
Ephesians 6:10-17
Tuesday, January 14, 2025: 
Psalm 106:1-12 
Judges 5:12-21 
1 John 5:13-21
Wednesday, January 15, 2025: 
Psalm 106:1-12 
Numbers 27:1-11 
Luke 11:33-36
Thursday, January 16, 2025: 
Psalm 36:5-10 
Jeremiah 3:1-5 
Acts 8:18-24
Friday, January 17, 2025: 
Psalm 36:5-10 
Jeremiah 3:19-25 
1 Corinthians 7:1-7
Saturday, January 18, 2025: 
Psalm 36:5-10 
Jeremiah 4:1-4 
Luke 11:14-23

Announcements

Last year, the Blaine Youth Group got together for a quick photo at Asian Camp at Camp Gilmore in California. Support our youth by purchasing a delicious Curry Bento today!

BYG Curry Bento Fundraiser for Asian Camp • Today after Worship

Immediately after worship, our BYG will serve Curry Bento Boxes as a fundraiser for Asian Camp Youth Camp. Each Bento comes with chicken curry, sesame ginger salad and an oatmeal raisin cookie for $15.00 each. There is also an option to purchase the  chicken curry and sesame ginger salad for $13.00. Each summer many of our youth attend Asian Camp. Throughout the year, our youth have fundraisers, and each fundraiser helps offset the cost of air transportation, van transportation, lodging and meals before and after Asian Camp. This year, Asian Camp will be in Southern California.

Volunteers finish packing baked goods.

Blaine’s Benefit Sukiyaki NominationsDue Weds. Jan. 22, 2025

Blaine Memorial UMC’s Annual Sukiyaki will be on Saturday, March 1, 2025. Currently, the Sukiyaki Committee is seeking nominations for a beneficiary for the upcoming Sukiyaki event. Please submit a brief description of your recommended beneficiary recipient to the Church Office by Wednesday, January 22, 2025 (for review and approval by Ad Board). Beneficiary Nominations Forms are available in the Church Office.

If you have any questions, please contact Yuki Sofronas at our Church Office.

Prayer and Coffee • Wednesday, January 15, 2025 

Join Rev. Karen for prayer and community on Wednesday (1/15/25) at 9:00AM on Zoom. This is a great way to start your morning, clear and center your mind, all while connecting with God and your prayer community. Hope to see you on Wednesday.

120th/121st Anniversary Sunday Service and Potluck • Sunday, January 26, 2025

(See more photos)

On Sunday, January 26, 2025, Blaine Memorial UMC will have a 120th Anniversary Sunday service with special guests to celebrate and reflect on its 120-year history and look forward to its further growth and development into the next 120 years of service in love.

We’ll honor our church members and friends who have or will have reached by the end of January, the glorious age of 88 and older by reading their names aloud during worship. In addition, we will remember our saints who have passed away in the last year who were 88 and older by the reading of their names.

1967 Easter —Congregation

There will be a potluck gathering and program following the service. There will also be ministry table exhibits of past and present ministries of the church such as music ministry, Sunday School ministry, Youth ministry, mission ministry, sports ministry, etc.

Please join us for the culminating celebration of our 120th anniversary and start of our 121st year! We look forward to celebrating with all our members new and old and our many community friends. All are welcome. We will also have a lunch celebration honoring our 88+ and our 120 years! Stay tuned for more information to come.

Video: “A Season of Stewardship: Blaine Memorial UMC Supports Kimball Elementary”

With challenges such as food insecurity, a harsh economy, and homelessness, Blaine Memorial UMC has teamed with Kimball Elementary School to provide dinners through Thanksgiving Meals and presents through the Giving Tree.

Several members of the Blaine Memorial UMC Community, including its Blaine Youth Group (BYG), share what makes this lay-led ministry vital to the families in the neighborhood.

Visit our Original Videos page to view this story and more!

Learn More
Second Sunday after Christmas Day Comments Off on Second Sunday after Christmas Day

Second Sunday after Christmas Day

Posted by on Jan 5, 2025 in Blaine Youth Group, Church News & Events, Giving, Prayer, Sermons, Service Opportunities, Small Groups, Spiritual Formation, Sunday Worship, Videos

Happy New Year!

  • Second Sunday After Christmas Day
  • January 5, 2025 • 10:00am
  • Hybrid Worship
  • View the PDF

Order of Worship

Prelude
Selective Christmas Music
Arranged by Leann Onishi
Leann Onishi
Welcome of Grace and Greeting
Ron Nobuyama
Call to Worship
Written by Dr. Lisa Hancock
From Discipleship Ministries
Used with permission
Ron Nobuyama
Opening Prayer
David Yorozu 
Children’s Message
Sai Hanaoka
Scripture Reading
Matthew 2:1-12 (JLB, CEB)
Tsutomu Nagoya, David Yorozu
Reflection Questions
Discussion with Neighbor
Ron Nobuyama
Prayers of the People
Holden Evening Prayer Service
God of Mercy, Hold Us in Love
Leann Onishi Mako Willett
Holy Communion
Rev. Dr. Jeney Park Hearn
Holy Communion Music
Traditional Okinawan Music
Mako Willett
Introduction to the Offering
David Yorozu
Offertory Music
Amazing Grace (v 1,2,4,6)
Leann Onishi and Mako Willett
Doxology
Praise God, from Whom All Blessings Flow
UMH #94
Kathy Onishi
Prayer of Dedication 
David Yorozu
Announcements
Rev. Karen and Friends
*Benediction
Rev. Karen Yokota Love 
*Postlude
Go Now in Peace
Leann Onishi and Mako Willett 
Zoom Breakout Room
Rev. Dr. Jeney Park-Hearn
Today’s Flowers
Carol Kastrup

Sermon Questions

  • Reflect on an experience from your past when faith in God was hard for you, one where you were able to overcome and push through.
  • What are the barriers to faith and following Jesus that you must contend with in your life right now? (doubt, negative church experiences, etc.) What are some the current faith struggles that you are dealing with?
  • How is the Christian life exemplified in the magi? (Seeking Jesus, worshiping Jesus, offering our gifts to Jesus.)
  • How might you better live as a Christian this coming year? How can this group help?

Daily Lectionary Readings

Sunday, January 5, 2025: Second Sunday after Christmas Day
Jeremiah 31:7-14 or Sirach 24:1-12
Psalm 147:12-20 or Wisdom of Solomon 10:15-21
Ephesians 1:3-14
John 1:(1-9), 10-18
Monday, January 6, 2025: Epiphany of the Lord
Isaiah 60:1-6
Psalm 72:1-7, 10-14
Ephesians 3:1-12
Matthew 2:1-12
Tuesday, January 7, 2025:
Psalm 72
Daniel 2:1-19
Ephesians 4:17-5:1
Wednesday, January 8, 2025: 
Psalm 72
Daniel 2:24-49
Ephesians 5:15-20
Thursday, January 9, 2025: 
Psalm 29 
Ecclesiastes 1:1-11
1 Corinthians 1:18-31
Friday, January 10, 2025: 
Psalm 29 
Ecclesiastes 2:1-11
1 Corinthians 2:1-10
Saturday, January 11, 2025: 
Psalm 29 
Ecclesiastes 3:1-15 
1 Corinthians 2:11-16

Announcements

New Year’s Ozoni Soup Meal • Today after Worship

Ozoni mochi soup will be celebrated and served after church worship. The Blaine Memorial Choir will host us in the customary making and serving of the New Year’s rice-cake ozoni. The Choir is happy to serve you best wishes for the new year of 2025 in every bowl of ozoni!

Prayer and Coffee Canceled • Wednesday, January 8, 2025 

Wednesday Coffee and Prayer will be canceled (1/8/25) but will resume Wednesday (1/15/25). See you next week. Blessings on your evening!

120th/121st Anniversary Sunday Service and Potluck • Sunday, January 26, 2025

On Sunday, January 26, 2025, Blaine Memorial UMC will have a 120th Anniversary Sunday service with special guests to celebrate and reflect on its 120-year history and look forward to its further growth and development into the next 120 years of service in love.

We’ll honor our church members and friends who have or will have reached by the end of January, the glorious age of 88 and older by reading their names aloud during worship. In addition, we will remember our saints who have passed away in the last year who were 88 and older by the reading of their names.

There will be a potluck gathering and program following the service. There will also be ministry table exhibits of past and present ministries of the church such as music ministry, Sunday School ministry, Youth ministry, mission ministry, sports ministry, etc.

Please join us for the culminating celebration of our 120th anniversary and start of our 121st year! We look forward to celebrating with all our members new and old and our many community friends. All are welcome. We will also have a lunch celebration honoring our 88+ and our 120 years! Stay tuned for more information to come.

Video: “A Season of Stewardship: Blaine Memorial UMC Supports Kimball Elementary”

With challenges such as food insecurity, a harsh economy, and homelessness, Blaine Memorial UMC has teamed with Kimball Elementary School to provide dinners through Thanksgiving Meals and presents through the Giving Tree.

Several members of the Blaine Memorial UMC Community, including its Blaine Youth Group (BYG), share what makes this lay-led ministry vital to the families in the neighborhood.

Visit our Original Videos page to view this story and more!

Learn More
Jan. 26: 120th and 121st Anniversary Sunday Service and Potluck! Comments Off on Jan. 26: 120th and 121st Anniversary Sunday Service and Potluck!

Jan. 26: 120th and 121st Anniversary Sunday Service and Potluck!

Posted by on Jan 3, 2025 in Archives, Blaine Youth Group, Church News & Events, Prayer, Sunday Worship

120th and 121st Anniversary Sunday Service and Potluck

On January 26, 2025, Blaine Memorial UMC will have a 120th anniversary Sunday service with special guests from our past to celebrate and reflect on its 120-year history and look forward to its further growth and development into the next 120 years of service in love.  

After the service there will be a potluck gathering and program with exhibits, entertainment, reunions with friends and family, and an honoring of church members who are 88+ years old.  

Please join us for the culminating celebration of our 120th anniversary and start of our 121st year!  We look forward to celebrating with all our members new and old and our many community friends to remember and renew our connections into the future. Please bring a potluck dish to share. All are welcome.

Worship begins at 10am in the Sanctuary.

1905 Seattle Japanese Methodist Episcopal Church

1918 Sunday School

1925 Junior Church

Circa 1930 Sunday School

1941 Congregation

1967 Easter — Congregation

2024 Congregation. Photo by Kai Yamamoto with Aiden Lew.

Contact the Church Office for more information.

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