Meet our Staff

Rev. Mary Elyn Bahlert, Pastor Welcome to the website of Lake Merritt United Methodist Church! We are happy that you've stopped by. If you are looking for a place to connect to God and to other good people, then you've come to the right place! The people of Lake Merritt UMC are diverse, reflecting the people of Oakland. We gather together to learn and grow together, going into our lives as people of justice and peace. I think you'll find us truly "open and welcoming." Join us in worship some Sunday soon. We might be just the place you've been looking for! Click Here to read sermons from Rev. Mary Elyn Bahlert. pastor@lakemerrittumc.org Katie Chaidez, Music Director At Lake Merritt UMC, we are dedicated to providing a place of worship and meditation for people of all ages and ethnicities. Through our music, we strive to reflect the diversity of our congregation and our community by performing a variety of traditional choral works and contemporary music from around the world. If you are interested in singing with us, please contact me. No experience is necessary - just a love of singing, an openness to many kinds of people and music, and a desire to praise God and uplift others is all that is required! music@lakemerrittumc.org B Avalon, Church Administrator If you are looking for the perfect location for your event, whether it is a wedding or holy union, a meeting or a banquet, I hope you will consider Lake Merritt Church. As an open and welcoming congregation, our facilities are available to everyone and I will work with you to make your special event memorable. I and my event staff are ready to serve you. Be sure to check out the Facility Rental page on this website. We are pleased to be the Oakland home of several Bay Area music groups, including Kitka, The World Harmony Chorus, Harmony Bay Sweet Adelines, Women's Antique Vocal Ensemble and VOCI. Additionally, a variety groups regularly gather here, including recovery groups, new mothers' support groups, and music classes; yoga, qi gong and other movement classes, as well as a satsung. We are delighted that many Bay Area non-profits find a home here for their events, meetings and trainings. I will glady show you around our beautiful facility and help you envision what is possible. So that I can give you my undivided attention, please call ahead and make an appointment with me. I look forward to hearing from you! info@lakemerrittumc.org

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An open and welcoming Christian congregation
serving God in downtown Oakland.