Weekly Calendar

Twenty-Sixth Sunday after Pentecost Comments Off on Twenty-Sixth Sunday after Pentecost

Twenty-Sixth Sunday after Pentecost

Posted by on Nov 25, 2023 in Blaine Youth Group, Congregational Care, Giving, Innovation Hub, Pastors' Columns, Prayer, Sermons, Service Opportunities, Small Groups, Spiritual Formation, Sunday Worship, Weekly Calendar

Welcome!

  • Sunday, Nov. 26, 2023, 10am
  • Twenty-Sixth Sunday after Pentecost
  • Hybrid Worship
  • Continue scrolling or view the print version of the bulletin

Order of Worship

Prelude
Kathy Onishi
Welcome of Grace and Greeting
Rev. Karen Yokota Love
*Call to Worship 
Based on Psalm 100
By Bruce Prewer
Rev. Karen Yokota Love
*Opening Hymn 
Gather Us In
TFWS #2236
Eugene and Kathy Onishi
Opening Prayer
Rev. Karen Yokota Love
First Scripture Reading 
Matthew 25:31-46 CEB, JLB
S. Sumida, Y. Sofronas 
Children’s Message
Sai Hanaoka
Stewardship Campaign 2024
Sharon Maeda
Second Scripture Reading 
Ephesians 1:15-23 CEB, JLB
S. Sumida and Y. Sofronas 
Sermon
Anchored in Christ
Rev. Mia MiKyung Park
Hymn of Reflection
Christ is Made the Sure Foundation
UMH #559
Eugene and Kathy Onishi
Introduction to the Offering
Stephen Sumida
*Doxology
Praise God, from Whom All Blessings Flow
UMH #94
Eugene and Kathy Onishi
*Prayer of Dedication,
Pledge Card Consecration
Rev. Karen Yokota Love
Announcements 
Rev. Karen Yokota Love
*Closing Hymn 
Lord of the Dance
UMH #261
Eugene and Kathy Onishi
*Benediction 
Rev. Mia MiKyung Park
Postlude
Eugene and Kathy Onishi
Passing of the Peace 
Rev. Mia MiKyung Park
Zoom Breakout Room
Rev. Dr. Jeney Park-Hearn

Sermon Questions

1. The Apostle Paul emphasizes Christ as the head of the church. How does this impact your understanding of the role of Christ? How can it guide your interactions within the Christian community? What is your perspective on the role of the church in the world?

2. Reflect on the reign of Christ in verses 20-23. What does this signify about Christ’s authority and in what areas of your life do you readily recognize and submit to His authority?

3. How does the unchanging nature of Christ’s reign influence your trust and confidence in Him, particularly during uncertain times?

Daily Lectionary Readings

Monday, Nov. 27, 2023:
Semi-continuous: Psalm 28; Numbers 27:15-23; 2 Timothy 2:8-13
Complementary: Psalm 7; Esther 2:1-18; 2 Timothy 2:8-13
Tuesday, Nov. 28, 2023:
Semi-continuous: Psalm 28;  Zechariah 11:4-17;  Revelation 19:1-9
Complementary: Psalm 7;  Esther 8:3-17; Revelation 19:1-9
Wednesday, Nov. 29, 2023:
Semi-continuous: Psalm 28; Jeremiah 31:10-14; John 5:19-40
Complementary: Psalm 7;  Ezekiel 33:7-20; John 5:19-40
Thursday, November 30, 2023: 
Psalm 80:1-7, 17-19; Zechariah 13:1-9; Revelation 14:6-13
Friday, Dec. 1, 2023: 
Psalm 80:1-7, 17-19; Zechariah 14:1-9; 1 Thessalonians 4:1-18
Saturday, Dec. 2, 2023: 
Psalm 80:1-7, 17-19; Micah 2:1-13;  Matthew 24:15-31


Announcements

Christmas Eve Worship Times

This year, Christmas Eve is on Sunday (12/24). Therefore, Blaine Memorial UMC will host our regular 10:00AM Sunday Worship service celebrating the Fourth Sunday in Advent and one Christmas Eve Service at 5:00PM. The 5:00PM Christmas Eve Service will be our much-anticipated Christmas Eve Lesson and Carols with Candlelight Service. We hope you can join us!

Free hearing tests in the Library • Today

Do you have trouble understanding conversation in noisy places? Do you ask people to repeat themselves? Have people told you to get your hearing checked? If you are experiencing any of these concerns, there will be an opportunity immediately after worship to have your hearing checked. Offerings include a free screening of your hearing, and a free cleaning of your ears. If you use hearing aids, you can have those checked, as well. Please go to the Blaine Library to have your hearing checked!

Terri Adolfo hangs Giving Tree gift tags for the Blaine Memorial community.

Thanksgiving and Giving Tree Ministries 2023

Terri Adolfo and the Rev. Mia MiKyung Park have some important info regarding service opportunities that support Kimball Elementary. If you’re interested in helping with prep for Apple Crisp and the Giving Tree, read more.

Greening of Blaine 2023

All are welcome to participate in the Greening of Blaine 2023. There will be two work parties, this year: 

  • Tuesday, Nov. 28 (10a-12p) – Worship Committee & Pam Ikegami will focus on the Sanctuary.
  • Saturday, Dec. 2 (9a-12p) – Volunteers will mount the wreaths, garlands, and swags to decorate the outside of the church and to install the year’s Christmas tree. Lunch will be provided.

Please come take part! No prior experience necessary. Bring a tool to trim greenery for the wreaths! Welcome!

Wednesday Meditation & Prayer • November 29 at 9am

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!

Gender and Faith Workshop • November 29 at 7pm

Join the Reconciling Ministries Task Force Team for a Gender and Faith Workshop, Wednesday November 29 at 7:00 PM on Zoom. We’ll build upon our learning from last session as we explore gender expression, pronouns, and gender expansiveness in the Bible. We’ll continue to follow the video and discussion-based curriculum called Theology, Identity, and Me. Join us by contacting the church office for Zoom info.

Paper Roll Collection

Do you have extra toilet paper rolls or paper towel rolls? If so, the Worship Committee is collecting them for an art project to decorate the sanctuary for the Advent and Christmas season. Please drop off your extra toilet paper rolls and/or paper towel rolls in the black treasure chest in the Narthex. Thank you!

Holiday Card Signing • Now to December 3

You’re invited to sign Christmas cards for our church members who are sick or in a skilled facility home. The cards are on multiple tables in the Social Hall waiting for your signature until Sunday (12/3). The Social Hall will be open during Church Office Hours (Tuesday-Friday, 10am-4pm). Please contact the Church Office at (206) 723-1536 if you’d like to sign the cards during the week.

Poinsettias on the Altar • Order now through December 17, 2023

Advent season is here and it is time to sign up for poinsettias for the altar. You may dedicate a poinsettia in celebration of a person or an event, in memory of a loved one or to honor God’s glory. Poinsettias may be taken home after our Christmas Eve services. Each plant is $12.00. The deadline for Poinsettia Orders will be Sunday, December 17, 2023.

Download the order form here.


November 2023 Calendar

Click on calendar to view the PDF.

Learn More
Twenty-Fifth Sunday after Pentecost Comments Off on Twenty-Fifth Sunday after Pentecost

Twenty-Fifth Sunday after Pentecost

Posted by on Nov 19, 2023 in Blaine Youth Group, Church News & Events, Congregational Care, Episcopal News, Giving, Innovation Hub, Pastors' Columns, Prayer, Sermons, Service Opportunities, Small Groups, Spiritual Formation, Sunday Worship, Videos, Weekly Calendar

Welcome!

Order of Worship

PreludeWe Are Called 
Miriam Tong
Welcome of Grace and Greeting 
Rev. Mia MiKyung Park 
*Call to Worship 
Rev. Mia MiKyung Park 
*Opening HymnHow Great Thou Art (UMH #77) 
Miriam Tong, Michelle Vaughan, and Neal Komedal 
Opening Prayer 
Rev. Mia MiKyung Park 
First Scripture ReadingMatthew 25:14-30 (CEB, JLB) 
Jamie Yates and Tsutomu Nagoya 
Children’s Message 
Rev. Mia MiKyung Park
Second Scripture ReadingPsalm 98 (NRSVUE, JLB)  
Shig Nishida and Tsutomu Nagoya
Sermon • Gratitude of Joy 
Rev. Karen Yokota Love
Hymn of ReflectionWhat Gift Can We Bring (UMH #87) 
Miriam Tong, Michelle Vaughan, and Neal Komedal

Introduction to the Offering 
Shig Nishida 
Offertory Music“Seek Ye First” by Karen Lafferty 
Miriam Tong
*DoxologyPraise God, from Whom All Blessings Flow (UMH #94) 
Miriam Tong, Michelle Vaughan, and Neal Komedal 
*Prayer of Dedication and Consecration of Pledge Cards
Rev. Karen Yokota Love 
Announcements 
Rev. Karen Yokota Love
*Closing HymnI Come with Joy (UMH #617) 
Miriam Tong, Michelle Vaughan, and Neal Komedal 
*Benediction 
Rev. Karen Yokota Love 
Postlude  “Lord I Lift Your Name on High” by Rick Founds 
Miriam Tong
Passing of the Peace 
Rev. Karen Yokota Love
Zoom Breakout Room 
Rev. Dr. Jeney Park-Hearn

Sermon Questions

1. Do you ever find it difficult to joyfully praise God? 

2. Is it difficult to trust that God will bring forth justice? 

3. What are a few of the simple (or small) things in life you have been grateful for this week? 

4. How have you seen God at work this week? 

Daily Lectionary Readings

Monday, November 20, 2023:
Semi-continuous: Psalm 83:1-4, 9-10, 17-18; Judges 4:8-24; Romans 2:1-11
Complementary: Psalm 9:1-14; Zechariah 1:7-17; Romans 2:1-11
Tuesday, November 21, 2023:
Semi-continuous: Psalm 83:1-4, 9-10, 17-18; Exodus 2:1-10; 1 Thessalonians 5:12-18
Complementary: Psalm 9:1-14; Zechariah 2:1-5; 5:1-4; 1 Thessalonians 5:12-18
Wednesday, November 22, 2023:
Semi-continuous: Psalm 83:1-4, 9-10, 17-18; Esther 7:1-10; Matthew 24:45-51
Complementary: Psalm 9:1-14; Job 16:1-21; Matthew 24:45-51
Thursday, November 23, 2023: Thanksgiving Day, USA
Semi-continuous: Psalm 100; Genesis 48:15-22; Revelation 14:1-11
Complementary: Psalm 95:1-7a; 1 Kings 22:13-23; Revelation 14:1-11
Friday, November 24, 2023:
Semi-continuous: Psalm 100; Isaiah 40:1-11; Revelation 22:1-9
Complementary: Psalm 95:1-7a; 1 Chronicles 17:1-15; Revelation 22:1-9
Saturday, November 25, 2023:
Semi-continuous: Psalm 100; Ezekiel 34:25-31; Matthew 12:46-50
Complementary: Psalm 95:1-7a; Isaiah 44:21-28; Matthew 12:46-50

Announcements

https://www.youtube.com/live/iFe_vyAriXY?si=0Gq8u7YbfftEW7p8

Video: All-Church Conference Meeting

This year’s All-Church Conference took place on Tuesday, November 14 at 7pm. This gathering held great significance for our faith community as we come together to celebrate our ministries in 2023. Our District Superintendent, Rev. Derek Nakano will presided over the meeting. View the video.

Video: BYG Suno Dogs Support Maui Relief!

Associate Director of the Blaine Youth Group, Kaylee Yokoyama, presents the team’s efforts to support Maui through it’s contributions of Suno Dog sales at this year’s Bazaar. Learn how the youth worked together to prep delicious Suno Dogs, as well as train youth in managing their booth.

Special thanks to Revs. Mia and Karen as well as our photographers and videographers, Kai Yamamoto, Kobe Yamamoto, and Joshua Santos.

View the Original Video page for more!

Poinsettias on the Altar • Order now through December 17, 2023

Advent season is here and it is time to sign up for poinsettias for the altar. You may dedicate a poinsettia in celebration of a person or an event, in memory of a loved one or to honor God’s glory. Poinsettias may be taken home after our Christmas Eve services. Each plant is $12.00. The deadline for Poinsettia Orders will be Sunday, December 17, 2023.

Download the order form here.

Choir openings are available! Contact Eugene Onishi for more info!

Choir members needed! • Tues. at 7pm, Sun. at 9am, 11:45am

Join us as we bring musical messages to the Blaine family each week. If you sing, or if you would like to learn to sing, please come join! Whether you sing in public or just in the shower or are available “full-time” or “part-time,” all are welcome! Contact Eugene Onishi.

Thanksgiving Meal Work Party • Sunday, Nov. 19 & Monday, Nov. 20

BYG is once again partnering with Kimball Elementary School to provide Thanksgiving meals for food-insecure families. We’ll gather on Sunday, November 19, after worship to prepare apple crisps together in the LAC kitchen. Additionally, on Monday evening at 6pm in the LAC kitchen, we’ll make mashed potatoes and bake apple crisps (a light dinner will be provided). We plan to deliver the meals to Kimball Elementary School on Tuesday, the 21st, in the morning. Please contact BYG Directors or Terri Adolfo for more details.

Wednesday Meditation & Prayer • Nov. 22 at 9am

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 September/October edition. Finally, we end our time together with a pastoral prayer. We hope you can join us!

For more information, contact the church office for details!

Greening of Blaine 2023

All are welcome to participate in the Greening of Blaine 2023. There will be two work parties, this year: 

  • Tuesday, Nov. 28 (10a-12p) – Worship Committee & Pam Ikegami will focus on the Sanctuary.
  • Saturday, Dec. 2 (9a-12p) – Volunteers will mount the wreaths, garlands, and swags to decorate the outside of the church and to install the year’s Christmas tree. Lunch will be provided.

Please come take part! No prior experience necessary. Bring a tool to trim greenery for the wreaths! Welcome!

Gender and Faith Workshop • Wednesday, Nov. 29, 7pm

Join the Reconciling Ministries Task Force Team for a Gender and Faith Workshop, Wednesday November 29 at 7:00 PM on Zoom. We’ll build upon our learning from last session as we explore gender expression, pronouns, and gender expansiveness in the Bible. We’ll continue to follow the video and discussion-based curriculum called Theology, Identity, and Me. We hope you’ll join us!


View the Beacon News Page!

Read the latest issue of The Beacon newsletter, here or check out past issues.


November 2023 Calendar

Click on calendar to view the PDF.

Learn More
Twenty-Fourth Sunday after Pentecost Comments Off on Twenty-Fourth Sunday after Pentecost

Twenty-Fourth Sunday after Pentecost

Posted by on Nov 11, 2023 in Blaine Youth Group, Church News & Events, Giving, Innovation Hub, Sermons, Spiritual Formation, Sunday Worship, Weekly Calendar

Welcome

  • Sunday Nov. 12, 2023, 10am
  • Twenty-Fourth Sunday after Pentecost
  • Hybrid Worship
  • Continue to scrolling or view the print version of the bulletin

Order of Worship

Prelude 
“Would I Have Answered When You Called”
Ralph Williams 
Kathy Onishi
Welcome of Grace and Greeting 
Rev. Karen Yokota Love
Reconciling Ministries Announcement 
The Reconciling Ministries Team
*Call to Worship 
Rev. Karen Yokota Love
*Opening Hymn 
Leaning on the Everlasting Arms
(UMH #133) 
Eugene and Kathy Onishi 
Opening Prayer 
Rev. Karen Yokota Love
Honoring Our Veterans 
Tom Kometani
First Scripture Reading
Matthew 25:1-13 (CEB, JLB) 
Ron Nobuyama and Tsutomu Nagoya
Children’s Message 
Sai Hanaoka
The Baptism of Janet Kometani 
Rev. Karen Yokota Love, Rev. Mia MiKyung Park, and Rev. Dr. Jeney Park-Hearn
Special Music 
“Now We Thank You, Lord” by J.P. Williams, D. Nolan 
Blaine Memorial Choir
Stewardship Campaign 2024 
Rev. Karen Yokota Love
Second Scripture 
Reading Psalm 98: 1-3 (CEB, JLB) 
Ron Nobuyama and Tsutomu Nagoya
Sermon 
Together for Joy: New Song 
Rev. Mia MiKyung Park
Hymn of Reflection
They’ll Know We Are Christians by Our Love
(TFWS #2223)
Eugene and Kathy Onishi
Offering 
Ron Nobuyama
*Doxology 
Praise God, from Whom All Blessings Flow
(UMH #94)
Eugene and Kathy Onishi
*Prayer of Dedication 
Ron Nobuyama 
Announcements 
Rev. Karen Yokota Love
*Closing Hymn 
Together We Serve
(TFWS #2175)
Eugene and Kathy Onishi 
*Benediction 
Rev. Mia MiKyung Park
Postlude 
“May You Run and Not Be Weary“
by P. Murakami, H. Hanson
Kathy Onishi
Passing of the Peace 
Rev. Karen Yokota Love
Zoom Breakout Room 
Rev. Dr. Jeney Park-Hearn

Sermon Questions

1. What does Psalm 98:1-3 teach us about the joy and praise that should be associated with stewardship? 

2. How can we interpret the “new song” mentioned in the passage in the context of stewardship?

3. How does joyful stewardship differ from mere duty or obligation?

4. How can this passage inspire us to be more mindful and intentional stewards of the gifts and resources that God has entrusted to us?*

Daily Lectionary Readings

Monday, November 13, 2023:
Semi-continuous: Psalm 78; Joshua 24:25-33;  1 Corinthians 14:20-25
Complementary: Psalm 63; Amos 8:7-14;  1 Corinthians 14:20-25
Tuesday, November 14, 2023:
Semi-continuous: Psalm 78; Nehemiah 8:1-12;  1 Thessalonians 3:6-13
Complementary: Psalm 63; Joel 1:1-14;  1 Thessalonians 3:6-13
Wednesday, November 15, 2023:
Semi-continuous: Psalm 78; Jeremiah 31:31-34;  Matthew 24:29-35
Complementary: Psalm 63; Joel 3:9-21; Matthew 24:29-35
Thursday, November 16, 2023:
Semi-continuous: Psalm 123; Judges 2:6-15; Revelation 16:1-7
Complementary: Psalm 90:1-8, 12; Ezekiel 6:1-14; Revelation 16:1-7
Friday, November 17, 2023:
Semi-continuous: Psalm 123; Judges 2:16-23;  Revelation 16:8-21
Complementary: Psalm 90:1-8, 12; Ezekiel 7:1-9; Revelation 16:8-21
Saturday, November 18, 2023:
Semi-continuous: Psalm 123; Judges 5:1-12;  Matthew 12:43-45
Complementary: Psalm 90:1-8, 12; Ezekiel 7:10-27; Matthew 12:43-45

Announcements

Poinsettias on the Altar • Order now through December 17, 2023

Advent season is here and it is time to sign up for poinsettias for the altar. You may dedicate a poinsettia in celebration of a person or an event, in memory of a loved one or to honor God’s glory. Poinsettias may be taken home after our Christmas Eve services. Each plant is $12.00. The deadline for Poinsettia Orders will be Sunday, December 17, 2023.

Download the order form here.

Choir openings are available! Contact Eugene Onishi for more info!

Choir members needed! • Tues. at 7pm, Sun. at 9am, 11:45am

Join us as we bring musical messages to the Blaine family each week. If you sing, or if you would like to learn to sing, please come join! Whether you sing in public or just in the shower or are available “full-time” or “part-time,” all are welcome! Contact Eugene Onishi.

Wednesday Meditation & Prayer • Nov. 15 at 9am

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 September/October edition. Finally, we end our time together with a pastoral prayer. We hope you can join us!

For more information, contact the church office for details!

All-Church Conference Meeting • Tuesday, Nov. 14, 7pm

This year’s All-Church Conference will be on Tuesday, November 14 at 7pm. This gathering holds great significance for our faith community as we come together to celebrate our ministries in 2023. Our District Superintendent, Rev. Derek Nakano will preside over the meeting. All are invited to hear about the state of our church and other important updates. More details to come!

Thanksgiving Meal Work Party • Sunday, Nov. 19 & Monday, Nov. 20

BYG is once again partnering with Kimball Elementary School to provide Thanksgiving meals for food-insecure families. We’ll gather on Sunday, November 19, after worship to prepare apple crisps together in the LAC kitchen. Additionally, on Monday evening at 6pm in the LAC kitchen, we’ll make mashed potatoes and bake apple crisps (a light dinner will be provided). We plan to deliver the meals to Kimball Elementary School on Tuesday, the 21st, in the morning. Please contact BYG Directors or Terri Adolfo for more details.

Greening of Blaine 2023

All are welcome to participate in the Greening of Blaine 2023. There will be two work parties, this year: 

  • Tuesday, Nov. 28 (10a-12p) – Worship Committee & Pam Ikegami will focus on the Sanctuary.
  • Saturday, Dec. 2 (9a-12p) – Volunteers will mount the wreaths, garlands, and swags to decorate the outside of the church and to install the year’s Christmas tree. Lunch will be provided.

Please come take part! No prior experience necessary. Bring a tool to trim greenery for the wreaths! Welcome!


Visit the Poinsettia page!

Orders are now open for Poinsettias on the Altar. Read more.


The Beacon is Now Available!

Read the latest issue of The Beacon newsletter, here!


November 2023 Calendar

Click on calendar to view the PDF.

Learn More
Spiritual Formation Center Comments Off on Spiritual Formation Center

Spiritual Formation Center

Posted by on Nov 7, 2023 in Church News & Events, Congregational Care, Giving, Prayer, Spiritual Formation, Weekly Calendar

Steve Sofronas prepares charcoal in preparation for grilling.

The hands and feet of Blaine

By Anne Arakaki-Lock

Whether it’s rinsing out the coffee pot after Social Hour, folding newsletters for mail out, boiling noodles for Bazaar, trimming the overgrown trees in the parking area, working on the soundboard at worship, ushering, or counting the offering, God really likes it when we do things for Him and celebrate our blessings at the same time. Contrarily, the Spirit grieves when we complain and do things begrudgingly, reluctantly, critically. Even we enjoy it when someone does something for us with a happy attitude. 

Volunteers shred chicken for udon.

Most recently, we all worked together on the Bazaar to help our Maui family. We did it willingly and had fun serving together. Sure, it was strenuous at times, and we learned what we want to do next year, but we kept our eye on the ball. Most importantly we knew our mission — that God needed us to be his “hands and feet” to sincerely greet and serve the community from which the pandemic had kept us apart for several years. God wanted us to acknowledge the person working on our sides. In fact, many people just came and said, “We are so glad Bazaar is back.” Then there were folks who said, “Here I am. I’d like to volunteer.” I have no doubt God was pleased. 

Volunteers grill delicious chicken teriyaki during Bazaar.

So now I say, let’s carry this wonderful giving spirit into our Stewardship Campaign, Together for Joy. After all, not only are time and abilities gifts from God, but everything we have is really from Him — the cookies and blueberry pies, the plants, the air we breathe, our homes, the church, our jobs. Yep, even “our” money is really God’s. You may want to pause for a moment and quietly pray about this means. When you hear His voice and think about all that God has asked you to steward on this earth, you will know what you should give back to Him as a follower of Christ to help build His Kingdom. My prayer for you is that you return much of what you have with a cheerful heart. Amen?

 “Each of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver. And God is able to bless you abundantly, so that in all things at all times, having all that you need, you will abound in every good work.” – 2 Corinthians 9:7-8

Anne Arakaki-Lock is a member of Blaine UMC’s Congregational Care Ministries team.


Visit the Poinsettia page!

Orders are now open for Poinsettias on the Altar. Read more.


The Beacon is Now Available!

Read the latest issue of The Beacon newsletter, here!


November 2023 Calendar

Click on calendar to view the PDF.

Learn More
BYG Update Comments Off on BYG Update

BYG Update

Posted by on Nov 7, 2023 in Blaine Youth Group, Church News & Events, Service Opportunities, Small Groups, Spiritual Formation, Weekly Calendar

Blaine Memorial Youth peel and chop apples to make apple crisps. Their work will help support families at Kimball Elementary School.

BYG focuses on gratitude and service

By Kaylee Yokoyama, photos by Kai Yamamoto

Upcoming Events

Thanksgiving Meal
Nov. 19
Apple Crisp Making
Nov. 19
Mashed Potato Making
Nov. 20
Kimball Delivery
• Nov. 21

As autumn leaves are falling down, we are putting the pieces into place and focusing towards acts of service. As the Blaine Youth Group has been known to do in the past, we’ve begun honoring Thanksgiving as a time of gratitude and service. During mid-November, BYG will prepare and serve Thanksgiving meals for families at Kimball Elementary. We encourage the youth to extend grace to our community through acts of service.

This time of the year is a busy time for lots of families. As we approach the season of giving, Thanksgiving is a time for our youth to remember what they are most thankful for and how they can use their gifts to serve others. 

With our youth balancing school and extracurriculars, it can be difficult to manage our priorities and maintain our faith. BYG intends to continually remind the youth to give grace to others, whether at church, school, or home. We should always give thanks. BYG wants to emphasize the fact that stewardship should not only be highlighted in our faith during the month of November, but year round. We plan to continually remind and offer opportunities to be stewards through various projects throughout the year. 

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.

Contact Information:

Director of Youth Ministry: Lynne Onishi

Associate Directors of Youth Ministry: Kai Yamamoto and Kaylee Yokoyama


Visit the Poinsettia page!

Orders are now open for Poinsettias on the Altar. Read more.


The Beacon is Now Available!

Read the latest issue of The Beacon newsletter, here!


November 2023 Calendar

Click on calendar to view the PDF.


Learn More
Gratitude for our Blaine’s Benefit Bazaar! Comments Off on Gratitude for our Blaine’s Benefit Bazaar!

Gratitude for our Blaine’s Benefit Bazaar!

Posted by on Nov 6, 2023 in Blaine Youth Group, Church News & Events, Congregational Care, Giving, Prayer, Service Opportunities, Small Groups, Weekly Calendar

Pam Ikegami and Donna Sekijima learn how to make manju.

Gratitude for our Blaine’s Benefit Bazaar!

By Lesley Okura, photos by Kai Yamamoto, et. al.

On October 7, 2023 Blaine Memorial UMC resurrected the Benefit Bazaar after a three-year hiatus due to the Covid-19 pandemic! This year’s beneficiary was Maui Recovery and Relief through United Methodist Committee on Relief (UMCOR).

With the help of those who donated time, talent, and hard-work, we were able to receive donations of plants, get good deals on meat and chicken for curry (as well as rice). Also, because of our volunteers, delicious menu items such as udon, ohagi and other delights were available. It’s these wonderful volunteers who really made this year’s Bazaar a success I hoped it would be.

Rev. Karen Yokota Love catches up with Judy and Bruce Yasutake and Wendall Watanabe.

Thank you, Rev. Karen, for making your first Blaine apple and blueberry pies, and for bringing your pastoral leadership and wisdom to us. Thank you, Rev. Mia, for shepherding our young people (which was kind of like wrangling kittens). Thank you, Yuki Sofronas, for taking care of the many inquiries, the posters, and for facility support. 

Stephanie Nishida, Roberta Yoshioka and Julie Shioshita make pie dough.

Last but not least, I would like to give a big “Thank You” to our Blaine Family, specifically to our the list of volunteers. Listing all of our helpers would take six pages, so I will feature our “headliners” here and when possible, throw out hugs and pats on the backs for jobs well done in every committee. Your time and dedication are always welcome. You are absolutely necessary for success and your hard work is a heartfelt gesture toward UMCOR’s Maui Relief effort.

Leslie Okura and the gang prepare berries for pie-making!

God answered my prayers. Thank you all for a wonderful community-based event that we have welcomed back at Blaine Memorial UMC!

Lesley Okura and Ron Nobuyama served as Co-Chairs for this year’s Benefit Bazaar at Blaine Memorial UMC.


Bazaar 2023 Supporters

Tsukemono 

  • Jim Okura
  • Dave Hayasaka

Grill Pit Masters

  • Joe Adolfo
  • Jason Lew
  • Tim Ikegami
  • Howard Nakase
  • Steve Sofronas 

BBQ Marinade

  • Steve Sakahara 

Rice

  • John Hodge

Poster Design Team

  • Allyson and Steve

Farmers Market

  • Wendy Yates 

Produce Donation Support

  • SK Produce 

Plant Donations

  • Dave Yorozu, T. Yorozu Gardening

Curry Meat & Chicken

  • Red Apple Market

Curry Prep

  • Tina Fujii

Rice & Food Storage

  • Uwajimaya 

Bakery Sales

  • Julie Lock 

Pie and Ohagi Sales

  • Terri Adolfo

Ohagi Makers

  • Donna Sekijima and friends

Pie Masters

  • Ruth Watanabe
  • Tom and Roberta Yoshioka

Set-Up

  • Lynne Onishi and the youth leaders and helpers

Signage

  • Kim Furugori

IT Support

  • Susan Lee

Paper Goods Shoppers

  • Ron Nobuyama
  • Barbara Nagaoka

Cashiering

  • Barbara Nagaoka 
  • George Yates

Take-Out Support

  • Dale Watanabe
  • Eugene and Kathy Onishi

Udon Bowl Support

  • Lisa Mar 

Bazaar Committee

  • Lesley Okura
  • Ron Nobuyama
  • Barbara Nagaoka
  • Sally Sekijima
  • Anne Arakaki-Lock

Procurement, Etc.

  • Brian Okura

Dishwashing

  • Joel Ing and his dishwashing crew

Pastoral & Staff Support

  • Rev. Karen Yokota Love
  • Rev. Mia MiKyung Park
  • Yuki Sofronas


Visit the Poinsettia page!

Orders are now open for Poinsettias on the Altar. Read more.


The Beacon is Now Available!

Read the latest issue of The Beacon newsletter, here!


November 2023 Calendar

Click on calendar to view the PDF.


Learn More