1. Art and Diseño

West L. A. Connections
Where
Nurturing Empowerment Welcoming Service
A Monthly Publication of the West Los Angeles United Methodist Church
West Los Angeles
United Methodist Church
Office Hours
Monday–Friday, 9 AM to 1 PM
While the attacks perpetrated by the terrorists are reprehensible and
indefensible, we must guard against unreason by laying the blame for the
recent events at the feet of Islam or religion.
Pastors' Office Hours
Rev. Gary: Tues-Fri, 9 AM to 1 PM
Rev. Janet: Tues-Fri, 9 AM to 1 PM
Rev. Becky: Sat, 10 AM to 12 PM
There are an estimated 1.6 billion Muslims around the world. Islam is
the world’s second largest religion after Christianity. The percentage of
persons claiming to be Muslim who are involved in terrorist acts is
miniscule by comparison.
Sunday Worship Services
 9:30 AM
English Language Worship
Child Care and Sunday School
 10:30 AM
Fellowship Time for both congregations
 11:00 AM
Japanese Language Worship
Islam is a religion of reason and peace. Islam literally means “peace.”
Its scriptures are replete with admonitions for peaceful and just interactions
with nations, neighbors, and the needy. Nature is seen as an integral part of
a holistic outlook on God, humanity, and the world.
Moderate Muslims have condemned terrorist acts done in the name of
Islam. Following the Paris shootings, the Arab League and Al-Azhar,
Sunni Islam’s premier center of learning, condemned the attacks saying,
“Islam denounces any violence.” In Berlin, thousands of Muslims gathered
at the Brandenburg Gate under a banner that read, “Terror: not in our
name!” The Council on American-Islamic Relations, the largest Muslim
civil rights organization in the U.S., wrote, “We strongly condemn this
brutal and cowardly attack and reiterate our repudiation of any such assault
on freedom of speech, even speech that mocks faiths and religious figures.”
Staff
Rev. Gary Oba, Senior Pastor
Email: [email protected]
Rev. Janet Cromwell, Associate Pastor
Email: [email protected]
Rev. Rebecca Hirata, Local Pastor
Japanese Language Ministry
Email: [email protected]
Let us not allow the acts of terrorists to discredit or undermine the
benefits that religion has bequeathed to the world. Instead, let the words of
the English actor David Suchet guide us: "I'm a Christian by faith. I like to
think it sees me through a great deal of my life. I very much believe in the
principles of Christianity and the principles of most religions, actually —
that one has to abandon oneself to a higher good.”¹
Lina Yamaguchi,
Secretary and Newsletter Coordinator
Email: [email protected]
Our Mission Statement
West L.A. Connections
February 2015
The recent events in Paris have added fuel to the fire of criticism
against Muslims in particular and religion in general. The author Sam
Harris has called Islam the “mother lode of bad ideas.” Comedian Bill
Maher said, “When there’s this many bad apples, there’s something wrong
with the orchard.” Author Salman Rushdie has described religion as a
“medieval form of unreason” and, like all other ideas, is deserving of
“criticism, satire, and, yes, our fearless disrespect.”
1913 Purdue Avenue
Los Angeles, CA 90025
Phone: 310-479-1379
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.wlaumc.com
Our Mission is to promote spiritual
growth - Building a community of
faith and making disciples of Christ
by reaching out with compassion,
forgiveness and love. At West LA
UMC, building a community of faith
is what we are about.
Happens!
Peace be with you,
Rev. Gary Oba
1
Suchet religious conversion. Strandmag.com.
Page 1
February 2015
Prayers
Connecting and Nurturing through Prayer
As a community of faith, we support one another
through prayer. To add or remove a prayer request,
please contact one of the pastors or the church office.
Narrative Lectionary Readings for
February
If you would like to receive a complete list of Prayer
Requests – Joys and Concerns – please contact the
Church Office.
These readings serve as the foundation
for the Wednesday morning Bible Study
and Sunday morning Worship Services. By
reading these scripture lessons during the
week, you can prepare your heart and mind
for Sunday worship.
February 1
Matthew 6:7-21
Psalm 20:7
February 8
Matthew 14:13-33
Psalm 95:1-5
February 15
Matthew 16:24 –
17:8
Psalm 41:7-10
February 18
Matthew 18:1-9
Psalm 146:7c10 or 51:1-3
February 22
Matthew 18:15-35
Psalm 32:1-2
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
West LA UMC Prayer Ministry
Join us on Thursday mornings at 9:30
AM in the Sanctuary to pray for persons on
the church’s prayer list. The Prayer Ministry
provides a calm and peaceful time to sit,
pray, and listen for God’s guidance in life. To
receive an updated copy of the Prayer List, contact
Lina Yamaguchi at the church office at 310-479-1379.
West L.A. Connections
Page 2
February 2015
Worship & Studies
Growing in Faith through Worship and Study
Sunday School and Bible Studies
February 9:30 AM Worship Services
Children’s Sunday School
February 1 – 4th Sunday after the Epiphany and
Holy Communion
Rev. Gary Oba preaching. Text: Matthew 6:7-21.
Theme: Practice righteousness where only God can
see.
Rev. Janet Cromwell giving children’s message.
Sunday School helps children learn about God, the
life of Jesus, and important lessons from the Bible.
Children and youth are encouraged to attend worship
and Sunday School each week!
Infants & Toddlers Nursery (next to the sanctuary)
Age 3 to Pre-K Cool Kids Room 1
K to Grade 3 Explorer Room 3
Grades 4-8 Trekker Room 2
Grades 9-12 Youth Room 8 (located upstairs)
February 8 – 5th Sunday after the Epiphany and
Boy Scout Sunday
Rev. Gary Oba preaching. Text: Matthew 14:13-33.
Theme: God's kingdom upends the world's
expectations.
Rev. Janet Cromwell giving children's message.
Women’s Bible Study Group
2nd and 4th Mondays, 1:00-2:30 PM
The two lessons for February are "Glory to God in
the Highest" using story of the nativity from Luke 2:120 and "In Awe of Christ's Power" using Matthew
14:22-36. The women take turns facilitating the class
discussion using the Adult Bible Study series. New
members are welcome.
February 15 – Last Sunday after the Epiphany
Transfiguration of the Lord
Pastor Jack Ong preaching.
Guest speaker for the children's message.
February 18 – Ash Wednesday Evening Service
7:30 PM, Sanctuary
The Lenten season begins with Ash Wednesday.
Join us for the worship service that will include
scripture, hymns, and the imposition of ashes.
Men’s Bible Study Group
February 22 – 1st Sunday in Lent
Worship with Praise Band
Rev. Gary Oba preaching. Text: Matthew 18:15-35.
Theme: We forgive others because we have been
forgiven.
Rev. Janet Cromwell giving children's message.
“Alive Now” Study Group
Periodic Tuesdays, 7:15-8:15 PM in Room 2.
The Men’s Study Group meets on periodic
Tuesday evenings. Contact Fred Hifumi for dates and
times.
Wednesdays, 9:15-10:15 AM in Room 2.
This study focuses on scripture lessons that will be
the basis for Sunday morning’s sermon. (See page 2 of
for scripture lessons.) Rev. Gary leads the discussion.
Thursday Bible Study
Thursdays, 7:30-9:00 PM in the Learning Center.
The group will complete its discussion of the book,
Zealot: The Life and Times of Jesus of Nazareth, by
Reza Aslan on February 5. There will be no study on
February 12. The group will begin a new study of the
book, Christ Actually: The Son of God for the Secular
Age by James Carroll on February 19. To order Christ
Actually, please call the church office. New members
are welcome to join this study group.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
New! Lenten Study
Tuesdays 9:30 AM or Wednesdays 7:30 PM, Room 2.
On February 24, a six-week Lenten Study will
begin on the book Parables and Passion: Jesus’
Stories for the Days of Lent by John Indermark. This
book offers daily reflections on Jesus’ parables in light
of his passion. The study will be led by Rev. Janet
Cromwell and is open to everyone who wishes to
participate. To order a copy of the book for $11.00,
please call the church office by February 10.
Valentine Making & Souper Bowl Sunday
On Sunday, February 1, children, youth and adults
are invited to enjoy a warm bowl of soup and then
move to the Valentine Making tables. We will create
Valentines for persons on our church’s Prayer List.
Supplies will be provided, so please plan to join us and
share your creative talents on this important outreach
project.
West L.A. Connections
Page 3
February 2015
Children, Youth, and Family Ministries
Supporting Families in Spiritual Growth and Discipleship
Confirmation Class for 7-12th Graders
February 28, 8:30 AM – 2:30 PM, Learning Center
The church is hosting a Confirmation Class for
students in Grades 7-12. Confirmation provides the
opportunity for young people to learn about the history
of The United Methodist Church and the meaning of
church membership. More importantly, it is a time for
students to discover and articulate what they believe
about God, Jesus, and their role as followers of Christ.
The Confirmation Class will begin with a Retreat on
Saturday, February 28, in the Learning Center.
Students will gather for breakfast at 8:30, participate in
four active learning sessions, enjoy lunch, and start
developing their personal Statement of Faith. Students
will continue to deepen their faith through worship and
Sunday School throughout the Spring.
The Confirmation Retreat will be led by Sharon
Kinoshita Gill, Lenny Gill, Stan Shimotsu, and Rev.
Janet Cromwell. There is no cost, but registration is
required by February 18 so that food and supplies may
be purchased.
The Confirmation Class will meet again on Friday
evening, April 24, at 6:00 PM for dinner, discussion
and finalizing the students’ Statements of Faith.
Confirmation will take place during worship on
Pentacost Sunday, May 24, for those students who
choose to be confirmed and join the church.
A parent guide book will be provided for each
family. Parents and students are welcome to contact
Sharon Kinoshita Gill or Rev. Janet Cromwell for more
information. We look forward to this exciting faith
development opportunity for our 7-12th Graders.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
The youth visit Fumi Tsuruda at her home.
th
4-8 Grade Overnight Retreat
On January 18-19, our 4-8th Graders gathered for a
fun and inspiring Overnight Retreat. The afternoon
began with bowling in Santa Monica followed by
cooking a delicious dinner at the Parsonage. Upon
returning to the church, the students created an
“instant party” to celebrate Jared Matsubayashi’s
birthday! Each student had a task to do to make his
day extra special, including hanging decorations, icing
a cake, and creating a handmade birthday card.
This year’s movie was “The Prince of Egypt” that
described the life of Moses and his calling to lead
God’s people from slavery in Egypt to the Promised
Land. Following the movie, the students reflected on
how they see themselves vs how God sees them.
During the late-night worship, students considered
what God might be calling them to do.
On Monday morning, the students created colorful
bouquets of tissue paper flowers and handmade cards
to deliver to two senior members of our church, Fumi
Tsuruda and Nancy Shimotsu. During short visits to
each of the women’s homes, they introduced
themselves and presented their gifts.
West LA UMC is blessed to have such talented,
fun, and thoughtful youth. Many thanks to the Retreat
Leaders Sharon Kinoshita Gill, Lenny Gill, Mike Dote,
and Rev. Janet Cromwell.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Ohana 2.0: Families with Young Children
Saturday, March 7, 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM
The Ohana 2.0 gathering on February 14 has
been canceled so please mark your calendars for the
next gathering on March 7 at 10:00 AM. We will
discuss discipline for all ages (setting boundaries and
limits) based on the Bill Hybel’s book "Parenting: How
to Raise Spiritually Health Kids.” Looking forward to
seeing you then!
Vacation Bible School
July 13-17, 2015
Yes, it is only February, and we are already
planning for this year’s Vacation Bible School! VBS
Director Jeri Okamoto Floyd has set the dates of July
13-17 for this year’s program. More information will be
available in future Newsletters but, in the meantime,
please mark your calendar and plan to be a part of this
fun and inspiring summer event!
Please RSVP to Jane Shimotsu so that
preparations can be made for childcare during the
discussion time for adults and the potluck lunch.
West L.A. Connections
Page 4
February 2015
Outreach & Social Service
Serving Our Community and World
GRACIAS!
Dear West Los Angeles United Methodist Church,
The Kroger Family of Stores is
committed to bringing hope and help
to local communities. We do this
through a variety of activities, including charitable
giving, sponsorships and the unique Community
Contributions Program of Ralphs. As your
neighborhood food retailer, we deeply value our ability
to support local organizations like yours.
Your supporters (31 households) who shopped at
Ralphs between 09/01/2014 and 11/30/2014 have
contributed to your $200.61 total donation. The more
your supporters shop with us, the more money your
organization will earn!
Thank you,
Ralphs Community Program Staff
Please Note: Church members can still register
their Ralphs cards on the Internet at www.Ralphs.com
or by taking the following "bar code" to your Ralph's
cashier and having them scan it. Thank you for
supporting this fundraising effort!
During the first week of
January, three members of La
Plaza United Methodist
Church drove to San Ysidro
area were they met with Rev
Saul Montiel (a United
Methodist clergy person in
San Diego area) and teachers
from two schools in Mexico.
During their time together, the teachers received the
toys that West LA UMC donated (around 150), plus
school supplies, socks, beanie hats, t-shirts, and
scarves that other congregations helped us to put
together. For that we are deeply grateful!
Once again, THANK YOU to you and your
congregation for being a blessing for these lives.
Paz,
Pastor VJ Cruz Baez
La Plaza United Methodist Church
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
An Opening Conversation for Everyone on
“Reconciling Congregation”
An opening conversation regarding
our congregation possibly becoming a
Reconciling Congregation will be held
during the Social Hour on Sunday,
February 22 at 11:00 AM. A “Reconciling
Congregation” is a UMC congregation
that expresses its openness to all worshipers
regardless of sexual orientation.
Jeri Okamoto Floyd will moderate a panel
consisting of Rev. Gary Oba, Stan Shimotsu, and
special guest Jason Takagi, the Reconciling Ministry
Network Convener for the Cal-Pac Annual Conference.
At this first conversation, each of the participants
will explain their perspective on becoming a
Reconciling Congregation. Following their brief
presentations, members of the congregation will be
invited to ask questions. Due to the nature of the
subject, it is unlikely that all questions will be fully
answered in this initial session. However, these
questions will help to shape future conversations, study
sessions, and programs that will be held throughout
this coming year.
Our church Administrative Council voted to support
having conversations and other means of exchange
this year to see if we would like to vote to become a
Reconciling Congregation.
All are wholeheartedly invited to participate in this
opening conversation on February 22 immediately after
the English worship service.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Thankfulness. Being thankful is a choice…
Jean and I are frequently out of town usually over
the weekends where we share time with and care for
my folks who make their home out of state. Sadly,
during those times, we miss attending Sunday morning
worship services where we take delight in listening to
Rev. Janet’s scripture messages and stories to the
children at church. I also appreciate and take pleasure
in hearing and learning from Rev. Gary’s sermons.
Which is why I take this opportunity to share with
church members and friends about the church website
www.wlaumc.com. Please know, if you didn’t, that we
have access over the internet to listen to prerecorded
audio tracks of WLAUMC ministry sermons and
scripture readings, special events, messages, and
guest speakers from past Sunday morning services.
I see the application of this website as a valuable
resources of new electronic age, if you will, church
information technology. This blessing is available for
everyone to share and use and I am hopeful that it
catches on.
Thank you WLAUMC for making this thoughtful,
efficient and utilitarian media information service
available to all of us. Yours truly and in thankfulness.
Gregory Shikata
West L.A. Connections
Page 5
February 2015
Tanoshimi-kai Outing
Thank You for Prayers
Tanoshimi-kai will begin its 2015 outings on
Tuesday, February 17 as we explore more of
Downtown Los Angeles.
A docent led visit of the historic, but presently very
viable Union Station, will be our first stop. Union
Station opened in May of 1939 and celebrated its 75th
anniversary this past year. This Mission-style building
with its large patio areas and towering ceiling waiting
room with circular chandeliers was the last grand
railroad station built in the United States.
You will have the opportunity to select what you
would like to eat for lunch as we browse the Grand
Central Market that is a part of the Los Angeles
Historic Core District. Grand Central, which dates back
to 1917, is located on the ground floor of the historic
Homer Laughlin Building and has many different food
vendors and restaurants. You may also want to walk
across the street to step inside the lobby of the famed
Bradbury Building.
Our last stop will be a tour of the Wells Fargo Bank
Museum that highlights their history in Southern
California. Among their exhibits are the Concord
Stagecoach and a 27-ounce gold nugget.
On February 17, we plan to depart church at 8:45
and return around 4:30. The cost of $45.00 per person
includes transportation, driver's gratuity, tours, and
donation. Lunch will be on your own. Contact Eleanor
Nakano for more information and to sign up.
Dear Rev. Gary, Rev. Janet and WLAUMC,
What a surprise to receive a box on Christmas Eve
filled with cards from my church family. Beautiful cards
and meaningful messages. Rick and I feel uplifted by
your prayerful support.
I have another week of radiation treatment and
infusion until September. My oncologist is considering
other therapies as well.
We continue to pray for your ministry sharing
God’s Love. Blessings,
Gail & Rick Messner
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Note from Kale Langley & Brooke Smars
Former West LA UMC worshippers Kale Langley
and Brooke Smars sent Christmas greetings to the
church. They may be reached at 5045 Morgan Avenue
South, Minneapolis, MN 55419.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Japanese University Students to Visit
On Sunday, February 22, fourteen university
students along with two professors from Kyushu
Sangyo University (KSU) will visit our church. At their
request, after attending the English worship service,
the students would like to speak informally with church
members in the Social Hall. They also will be bringing
cake for everyone to enjoy. The group plans to remain
in the Orange County area for three weeks as they
attend an English Study program. Mariye Takahashi
from our congregation is coordinating the visit.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Japanese Film Night
Friday, February 27,
7:30 PM, Sanctuary
Japanese Film Night
on Friday, February 27
will feature “The King of
Masks” / “Bian Lian.” This
91 minute long 1996
color film was directed by
Ma Da-Yuan.
Set against a back story of Chinese street
pageantry, fireworks, magic, acrobatics and a special
pet monkey named General, the film tells the story of
an aging street performer who is a master of the
traditional and secret art of Face Changing.
Gregory Shikata, Japanese Film Night Coordinator,
will provide an introduction to the film, including
information on the director and actors.
Looking ahead, the March 27 film will be
“Sayonara.” That evening, actress Miiko Taka will
speak about her staring role in the film and answer
questions. Don’t miss this very special event at 7:00!
These films are free and open to the public. Bring
your friends and join us.
West L.A. Connections
Gluten-free Bread for Communion
In The United Methodist Church, the Lord’s Table
is open to all persons who wish to participate. Church
membership or belief in a particular creed or doctrine
are not required. However, some persons may feel
excluded from participating in communion because of
dietary restrictions. If this is true for you or a loved one,
please notify Rev. Janet Cromwell so that gluten-free
bread may be provided for you during communion. At
West LA UMC, we want all of God’s children to be able
to feast at the Lord’s Table.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Bell Choir Rehearsals
February 8, 11:00 AM
The Bell Choir will begin
rehearsals in preparation for
Easter Sunday. New
members are welcome to
join the Bell Choir at the first
rehearsal on Sunday,
February 8 at 11:00 AM. Please see Music Director
Ashley Ramsey for more information.
Page 6
February 2015
United Methodist Women
Women Learning, Growing, and Serving Others
UMW Membership
UMW Steering Committee
Good news! Treasurer, Lois Tateishi,
reports that UMW membership now stands
at 56 with many more pledges received
from Velcey Abracosa, Sonia Dixon,
Fusako Hamamoto, Valerie Harada, Aiko
Inouye, Eiko Iwata, Keiko Kikuta, Nanayo
Kuno, Yae Miyahata, Takako Nomi, Kathy
Orebaugh, Marge Sakamoto, Marlene Sakamoto, Kim
Sase, Nancy Shimotsu, Michi Shono, Jane Shimotsu,
Hisako Terasaki, June Ushiyama, Grace Yamada and
Diane Yamagata. Thanks for your commitment!
In order for us to continue as a vibrant and viable
organization, we depend on all our members to fulfill
our mission as United Methodist Women. We know
when asked to help, you will respond, "YES, GLADLY!"
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Welcome to new Steering Committee member,
Stacey Hirose, another valued addition! She, along
with Sharon Kinoshita-Gill, will bring a "younger"
perspective to planning future programs for UMW.
As mentioned in the previous month's newsletter,
the Steering Committee is comprised of nine UMW
members who will aid Chairperson, Rose Honda, in
fostering relationships among the membership,
scheduling events and making important decisions.
The next meeting of the Steering Committee will be
on Sunday, February 8 at 11:00 AM in Room 2.
Please let Rose know if you will be able to attend.
New Year Off To A Good Start!
Saturday-Sunday, March 14-15
Are you looking for time away
from the busyness of life—time to
“stop and smell the roses,” as you
relax with friends, share laughter and
stories, and spend time with God?
Join us at our Garden Getaway retreat to experience
all this and more!
Garden Getaway is a relaxing garden-themed
retreat for the women of our church. It includes
worship, singing, Bible study, and time for laughter as
well as time for quiet reflection. This is a time to walk
with God, the Master Gardener.
We will begin on Saturday at 10:00 AM and will
finish by noon on Sunday. The retreat will be held at
Aldersgate Retreat Center and the cost is only $99 per
person before February 8! This covers three delicious
meals, fun and refreshing activities, all materials, and
comfortable lodging. Carpooling is available.
For more information, please see Cindy Morimoto,
or Rev. Janet Cromwell, or stop by the Retreat table at
the church on Sunday to learn more and register. You
can also find information on www.wlaumc.com.
Take time to relax, make new friends, worship,
and draw closer to God. We hope you will join us at
this Garden Getaway.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Garden Getaway Women's Retreat
On Saturday, January 24, over forty members of
the UMW gathered for a special New Year lunch at
Sushi Ichiriki in Torrance. Chef/Owner, Peter
Tachikawa, prepared special omakase fare for the
appreciative attendees. It was a wonder opportunity
not only to enjoy delicious food, but to spend time with
fellow members in a convivial atmosphere. Our thanks
to Kathi Yamazaki for making all the arrangements.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Mission Meeting February 21
On Saturday, February 21, UMW members will
meet from 10:00 AM to pack layettes for newborn
babies in Alaska, toiletries and food for UCLA Wesley
Foundation, and articles on a wish list for Step Up On
Second. Grace Seto coordinates the Layettes Project
and Eleanor Nakano has been the liaison for the
Wesley Foundation.
We are accepting donations of toothbrushes,
toothpaste, soap, etc. and toiletry kits as well as
individual food packets such as mac 'n cheese, ramen,
tuna, snacks, etc. for homeless UCLA students. If you
wish to donate fresh fruits, apples, oranges and green
bananas will be accepted on February 21. Step Up on
Second, a home for individuals with mental health
issues, has requested cold, wet weather gear including
coats, rain ponchos, umbrellas, socks, hats, gloves,
back packs, blankets, sleeping bags, towels, small
note pads and pens, travel thermos, etc. If you wish to
donate any of these articles, please let us know or
bring them to church before February 21. Thank you.
Lunch will be prepared for the workers by Toshie
Setoguchi, Lois Tateishi and Sadie Hifumi. PLEASE
RSVP TO TOSHIE BY FEBRUARY 15 if you plan to
attend and wish to eat lunch.
West L.A. Connections
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Café Aloha
On Saturday, February 7, our senior members are
invited to Café Aloha. Rev. Becky leads a brief
program and a Japanese lunch is served. Join us for
fellowship at 11:00 AM in the Social Hall.
Page 7
February 2015
Special Offerings
Giving to God through our Tithes and Offerings
for your generous gifts!
Memorial Offerings
Special Offerings
If you would like a list of the Memorial Offerings,
please contact the Church Office.
If you would like a list of the Special Offerings,
please contact the Church Office.
Remember the Church in Your Will or Trust
Many of the good things the church has been
able to do has been the result of bequests, for which
the church is very grateful. When including the
church in your will or trust, please list the legal name
and address, West Los Angeles United Methodist
Church, 1913 Purdue Avenue, Los Angeles, CA.
You may call the office for further information.
West L.A. Connections
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Altar Flowers dedicated in January
If you would like a list of the Altar Flower donations,
please contact the Church Office.
Page 8
February 2015
Giving Beyond the Local Church 2014
Christmas 2014 Offerings
The following donations were given by members of
the congregation for mission work beyond the doors of
our church. Through your generosity, West LA UMC is
touching lives around the world!
If you would like a list of the Christmas Offerings,
please contact the Church Office.
Designated Giving
Missionary Support & Travel expenses, $3,520
Peace With Justice Offering, $200
Human Relations Offering, $315
Native American Ministries Offering, $200
One Great Hour Offering, $446
World Communion Offering, $774
UM Student Day Offering, $350
Imagine No Malaria, $3,000
Wesley Foundation UCLA, $5,000
Loaves & Fishes Food Collaborative
(UMM West District), $2,200
National JA UM Caucus, $250
Stop Hunger Now!, $4,426
Habitat for Humanity Missions Project, $2,500
Asian Americans Advancing Justice, $250
Donations by Tanoshimi Kai group, $1,575
PATH Project (meals): Unknown
Thanksgiving Baskets, $268
Thanksgiving Baskets-groceries/turkeys: Unknown
48 Habitat family Welcome cleaning caddies –
Vacation Bible School: Unknown
Food Pantries - canned goods: Unknown
Social Action Toy Drive: Unknown
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Please Wear Your Name Tag
What a blessing it is to greet one another by name!
Please wear your name tag during worship and
fellowship time so that we may learn each other’s
names. This simple gesture opens communication and
makes everyone feel more welcome at church.
Apportionments and Conference Benevolences
Retired Pastors Pensions & Health Care, $13,931
World Service & Conference Benevolence, $45,702
Bishops and District Superintendents, $21,865
Annual Conference Administration, $13,188
Ministerial Education Fund /
World Service General Church Mission, $2,915
Black College Fund & Africa University Fund, $1,216
Ethnic Minority Local Churches / Christian
Education Sunday, $153
Cal-Pac Hunger Appeal & AIDS Ministry, $158
Youth Service Fund / Youth Ministry Sunday /
Campus Ministry, $816
Congregation Total $105,218
Donations by United Methodist Women
UMW Missions, $570
Alaska Layettes Project, $354
Toiletry bags for UCLA Food Pantry: Unknown
Mephibosheth Training Centre, Ghana, $1,000
PATH Project (meals), $202
UMW Total $1,924
GRAND TOTAL, $107,142
West L.A. Connections
Page 9
February 2015
Japanese Ministry
Praising and Serving God Together
「塩らしいクリスチャン」
“Dame-yo, dame, dame”(no, no, no)
2014 年の流行語大賞に輝いたのが「ダメよ
～、ダメダメ」である。お笑いコンビ「日本
エレキテル連合」のコントである。
「ダメ！」ときつく言わない、優しい「ダメ
よ～」が日本文化を象徴していると言われて
いる。
やはり、優しい言葉は、人の心を打つのであ
る。
In 2014, this phrase received the most popular phrase
award in Japan.
Even the little children learn to say “dame-yo” instead
of “dame!” last year. “Dame!” is a strong “no.” But,
“dame-yo” is a kind and gentle “no.” Many critics said
that this phrase represented the gentle Japanese
culture and was well received by young and old.
今年の年間聖句は「地の塩」（マタイ 5:13）
である。信仰者は、地の塩だとイエス様は教
えている。塩は大事である。役にたつ。塩の
ない世界はありえない。料理の時に塩がない
とは、考えられない。
クリスチャンのいない世界もありえない。イ
エス様を信じる人は、塩らしいクリスチャン
で、世のために役にたつからである。職場で
も、学校でも、家でも、教会でも、私たちは
塩らしいクリスチャンであろうか。
塩はこの世で、腐ることを防ぐ。そして、美
味しい味を提供する。そして、溶けて和合し
暮らすのである。
和の暮らしを考えるとは、素敵である。調和
された塩らしいクリスチャンは、目では見え
ないかもしれないが、いて欲しい存在である。
2015 年は、和を考え、悪を抑え、美味しい
味を引き出す、塩らしいクリスチャンになる
目標をもって歩みたいと思う。
平田
Jesus said “we are the salt of the earth.”(Matthew 5:13)
Christians are “shio-rashii” (salt-like) people.
(“shiorashii” translation is modest & meek)
“Shio-rashii” people are needed at work, school, home,
& church. “Shio” not only stops the food from spoiling,
but gives a good taste in cooking. Any oishii food,
“shio” is used and harmonizes well to bring a good
taste.
This year, we want to be like the salt, to think about
harmony, to stop the wrongdoings, and to add
goodness.
May Jesus, our Lord, is glorified through us.
Pastor Becky Hirata 平田
~~~ ~~~~~~~~~~
Nichigo’s February Calendar
Feb. 1
Feb. 7
Feb. 8
~~~ ~~~~~~~~~~
Feb. 15
Feb. 17
Feb. 18
Feb. 22
Feb. 27
West L.A. Connections
Page 10
11:00 AM
12:00 PM
11:00 AM
11:00 AM
12:00 PM
11:00 AM
12:00 PM
8:45 AM
7:30 PM
11:00 AM
12:00 PM
7:30 PM
Nichiigo Worship Service
Nichigo Bible Study
Café Aloha Senior Lunch
Nichigo Worship Service
Lunch Fellowship
Nichigo Worship Service
Bible Study
Tanoshimi-Kai Outing
Ash Wednesday Service
Nichigo Worship Service
Prayer Group
Japanese Film Night
February 2015
February 2015
Sunday
Monday
1 Valentine’s Day Card Making /
Souper Bowl Sunday
2
Tuesday
3
9:30am English Worship
9:45am Sunday School
10:30am Valentine’s Day Card Making
11:00am Japanese Worship
6:30-9:00pm Kelton AA Mtg
7:00pm Choir Rehearsal
8
9
10
9:30am English Worship
9:45am Sunday School
11:00am Japanese Worship
11:00am Library Opens
11:00am UMW Steering Com. Mtg
11:00am Bell Choir Rehearsal
12:00pm Nichigo Potluck Luncheon
15
9:30am
9:45am
11:00am
11:00am
11:15am
English Worship
Sunday School
Japanese Worship
Bell Choir Rehearsal
Social Action Mtg.
22 Visitors from Japan
9:30am English Worship
9:45am Sunday School
11:00am Japanese Worship
11:00am Social Action Presentation/
Reconciliation Ministry Panel
Discussion
1:00am Women’s Bible Study
6:00pm PATH Meal Service
6:30-9:00pm Kelton AA Mtg
7:00pm Choir Rehearsal
16 Church Office Closed
17
8:45 – 4:30 Tanoshimi Kai
Outing
6:30-9:00pm Kelton AA Mtg
7:00pm Praise Band
Rehearsal
7:00pm Choir Rehearsal
23
24
1:00am Women’s Bible Study
9:30am Lenten Study
morning session begins
6:30-9:00pm Kelton AA Mtg
7:00pm Choir Rehearsal
West L.A. Connections
Wednesday
4
9:15am “Alive Now” Study
10:30am Tai-Chi Class
Thursday
5
9:30am Prayer Meeting
10:30am Tai-Chi Class
11:00am Staff Meeting
Friday
6
Saturday
7
8:00am West District Training
Conference at Holman UMC
11:00am Café Aloha Senior
Luncheon
7:30pm Bible Study
11
12
13
14 Valentine’s Day
18
19
20
21
9:15am “Alive Now” Study
10:30am Tai-Chi Class
8:30am Fat Tuesday Men’s
Breakfast at church
9:15am “Alive Now” Study
10:30am Tai-Chi Class
7:30pm Ash Wednesday
Service
25
9:15am “Alive Now” Study
10:30am Tai-Chi Class
7:30pm Lenten Study evening
session begins
Page 11
9:30am Prayer Meeting
10:30am Tai-Chi Class
9:30am Prayer Meeting
10:30am Tai-Chi Class
10:00am UMW Workshop
4:00pm Praise Band Rehearsal
7:30pm Bible Study
26
9:30am Prayer Meeting
10:30am Tai-Chi Class
7:30pm Bible Study
27
28
8:30-2:00pm Youth
Confirmation Class
7:30pm Japanese Film Night-
February 2015
The Season of Lent
The Lenten Season is a time for prayer, self-reflection, and re-dedication to following
Christ in this world. To prepare one’s heart and mind during Lent, a number of special worship
services and study groups are provided at the church. Please plan to participate in a
meaningful Lenten Season.
Ash Wednesday Worship Service
Wednesday, February 18, 7:30 PM
We begin the season in self-reflection.
Lenten Devotional Study Groups
Tuesdays, beginning February 24, 9:30 AM
Wednesdays, beginning February 25, 7:30 PM
Reading Parables and Passion: Jesus’ Stories for
the Days of Lent by John Indermark.
Thursday Night Bible Study
Thursdays, beginning February 19, 7:30 PM
Reading Christ Actually: The Son of God for the
Secular Age by James Carroll.
Youth Confirmation Retreat
Saturday, February 28, 8:30 AM-2:30 PM
Palm Sunday Worship
Sunday, March 29, 9:30 AM and 11:00 AM
We recall Jesus’ triumphal entry into Jerusalem
Good Friday Worship Services
Friday, April 3, 12:00 Noon and 7:30 PM
We remember Jesus’ death on the cross.
Easter Sunday Worship
Sunday, April 5, 9:30 AM and 11:00 AM
Christ is risen! We rejoice and praise God!
West LA United Methodist Church
1913 Purdue Avenue, Los Angeles, CA 90025
wlaumc.com
310-479-1379