The Church Council is scheduled to meet for a Special Charge Conference to adjust Pastor Sunae’s adjusted compensation regarding housing on April 21 at 12:45 pm. Rev. Meina Ko from Oakland Chinese Community UMC will be presiding.
9th Annual LIFT Concert
3-5pm May 11th
Are you wondering how you can help out with the upcoming LIFT Concert? Let’s fill the sanctuary for the musicians and the community we serve! Reserve your ticket today. Spread the word! Invite your friends and families. It’s less than a month away!
Email liftconcertoakland@gmail.com or talk to your Connectional Ministries team for more info: Tom, Galia, Kathleen, and Rose Lynn
Lake Park & Lake Merritt UMC Merger Celebration
Pentecost Sunday May 19th
Join us as we celebrate this historic merger of our two significant churches and consecrate our ministry and mission before God with the blessing of our annual conference, churches, friends and families near and far. You will hear the stories of our two churches as we become one. Our own Bishop Minerva G. Carcaño will preach the sermon and bless our merger. Bay District Superintendent Rev. Sun Hee Kim will join and lead us. Immediately after the service, you are invited to take a church photo in front of the church on Lakeshore Ave. Share this invitation with your family and friends!
The Pentecost Merger Celebration Worship service is on May 19th at 10:15 followed by a BBQ lunch gathering. The main BBQ will be provided by the church. We invite our church family to bring the sides, salads, and desserts for our fellowship lunch. Judi Fabrizio is helping organize the sign-ups for the potluck dishes. Please see Judi to sign up and also if you have any questions.
UMC General Conference
April 23-May 3
The General Conference of the United Methodist Church is convening April 23-May 3 in Charlotte, North Carolina. UM News reporter Heather Hahn has created a video summarizing recent events in the denomination leading up to this conference, including the matters of LGBTQ inclusion, the COVID pandemic, and church departures. If you would like to find information, news, and resources, click on the following link with Resource UMC.
Clergy Retreat
Pastor Sunae and Deacon Stephanie are attending the Called to Wholeness retreat by the Board of Ordained Ministry. It is an invitation for a time of renewal and growth for clergies. They will be at the Jesuit Retreat Center of Los Altos from April 23 – 25. Would you keep them in your prayers?
Create Your Own Celebration of Life
noon Sunday, May 5th
Deacon Rev. Stephanie is a singing chaplain serving at San Leandro Kaiser. She will be preaching on May 5th Sunday and share her call as a Deacon serving in the world at a hospital. The title of her sermon is “Threshold Moments: Healing at the End of Life?” After the worship service, you are invited to reflect on the celebration of your life after death on earth. Yes, you heard me right. You are invited to write your own Funeral or Memorial service from 12 noon to 1:30pm after a brief fellowship time in the Stark Fellowship hall. Please join us.
String Quartet Concert
3pm Saturday, April 27th
You are warmly invited to the first-ever concert by the Musical Chairs Quartet, an Oakland-based string quartet composed of musicians in the Bay Area Rainbow Symphony: George Han, Mark Hodgson, Laurence Lewis, and Ken Schoon. We’re excited to perform a wide-ranging program of string quartets not commonly heard, including works by two African American composers, Florence Price and William Grant Still, and a rarely played string quartet by Felix Mendelssohn.
Saturday, April 27, 3-4pm. Doors open at 2:45, with a reception following the concert. Lake Merritt United Methodist Church, 1330 Lakeshore Ave, Oakland (use lakeside entrance)
Buena Vista UMC Bazaar
noon-5pm Sunday, May 5th
Join BVUMC’s annual bazaar and fundraiser featuring taiko drumming, music, food, and a panel discussion. This year’s theme, “Building Bridges – Bringing Hope,” will bring together panelists from two organizations: Tsuru for Solidarity (a nonviolent, direct action project of Japanese American social justice advocates) and T’ruah (a collective of progressive rabbis, rabbinical students, and Jewish cantors) — two organizations committed to the critical and grace-filled work of healing in our world, for greater human dignity for all.
The Oakland Civic Orchestra presents its concert “Luminosity” on Sunday, May 5, at 4:00 pm, at Lake Merritt United Methodist Church. Note: Our sanctuary will be set up facing the lake for worship on May 5th in preparation for the concert.
The program features the radiant young flutist and composer Cadence Liu performing her new Concerto for Flute and Orchestra, bookended by Vaughan Williams’ beloved Fantasia on a Theme by Thomas Tallis and the brilliant Divertimento from Le Baiser de la fée (The Fairy’s Kiss) by Igor Stravinsky. Also on the program is the seldom heard and charming Music for Symphony Orchestra by Yasushi Akutagawa. Read more and purchase tickets here.
Voci Concert
4pm Sunday, May 5th
Voci is proud to present a concert of madrigals and related musical forms from the Renaissance, early Baroque, and 20th century. Small ensembles, soloists, and the full choir will perform a rich variety of settings of beautiful and thought-provoking poetry in English, French, Italian and even Macedonian. We’ll sing about love and lovers, loss, internal struggle, and celebration. Please join Voci and Guest Director, Susan Swerdlow, for this End of Season Concert and celebratory gathering of refreshments and community.
After a month off in March, SoundBath returns on Friday, April 12th. What better way to end your week than by slowing down and relaxing, surrounded by meditative vibrations and melodies? Be immersed in flowing sounds as you sit in a chair or lie on the floor with your own mat, blanket, and/or pillow.
Admittance for the church community is donation based; $20 is suggested via cash, check, or Venmo. No RSVP needed. Doors open at 6:30 pm; please arrive by 6:45. Program begins promptly at 7:00pm. Download our flyer and share to invite family and friends!
Special Charge Conference
12:45pm Sunday, April 21
The Church Council is scheduled to meet for a Special Charge Conference to adjust Pastor Sunae’s adjusted compensation regarding housing on April 21 at 12:45 pm. Rev. Meina Ko from Oakland Chinese Community UMC will be presiding.
LIFT Concert
Join the team!
Save the date for our annual LIFT concert on May 11, 2024 from 3-5 pm. This is both our big fundraiser and community gathering hosted by us and to benefit the food programs: Lake Lunches and Food Pantry and more!
We need a team of folks to make this happen. It is only a monthly away! Please consider this seriously! Email liftconcertoakland@gmail.com or talk to your Connectional Ministries team for how to plug in: Tom, Galia, Kathleen and Rose Lynn
Gentle Yoga
Thursdays at noon
Gentle Yoga for body and soul is an excellent way to stretch and breathe tranquility into our mind, body, and soul. Resuming April 11th, Kathleen Bell will lead weekly classes, Thursdays at noon at Lake Merritt UMC. All are welcome.
Lake Merritt Conservancy Coalition
Friday, April 12th
The Lake Merritt Conservancy Coalition is meeting on Friday, April 12th, 7-9pm in the Laney College Auditorium. Join them as they announce a major milestone and invite other organizations to celebrate and plan next steps to protect and support Lake Merritt.
String Quartet Concert
3pm Saturday, April 27th
You are warmly invited to the first-ever concert by the Musical Chairs Quartet, an Oakland-based string quartet composed of musicians in the Bay Area Rainbow Symphony: George Han, Mark Hodgson, Laurence Lewis, and Ken Schoon.
We’re excited to perform a wide-ranging program of string quartets not commonly heard, including works by two African American composers, Florence Price and William Grant Still, and a rarely played string quartet by Felix Mendelssohn.
When: Saturday, April 27 3-4pm. Doors open at 2:45, with a reception following the concert
Where: Lake Merritt United Methodist Church, 1330 Lakeshore Ave, Oakland (use lakeside entrance)
Please read ALL of the ANNOUNCEMENTS!
Easter Egg Return for Recycle & Reuse
If you have empty easter eggs from Easter Sunday, you may return them for reuse next year. We will have a basket to collect them in worship this Sunday. Thank you! –Margaret LeWright, Children’s Ministry Team co-leader.
Sound Bath Returns!
6:45pm Friday, April 12th
After a month off in March, SoundBath returns on Friday, April 12th. What better way to end your week than by slowing down and relaxing, surrounded by meditative vibrations and melodies? Be immersed in flowing sounds as you sit in a chair or lie on the floor with your own mat, blanket, and/or pillow.
Admittance for the church community is donation based; $20 is suggested via cash, check, or Venmo. No RSVP needed. Doors open at 6:30 pm; please arrive by 6:45. Program begins promptly at 7:00pm. Download our flyer and share to invite family and friends!
Gentle Yoga
Thursdays at noon
Gentle Yoga for body and soul is an excellent way to stretch and breathe tranquility into our mind, body, and soul. Resuming April 11th, Kathleen Bell will lead weekly classes, Thursdays at noon at Lake Merritt UMC. All are welcome.
Lake Merritt Conservancy Coalition
Friday, April 12th
The Lake Merritt Conservancy Coalition is meeting on Friday, April 12th, 7-9pm in the Laney College Auditorium. Join them as they announce a major milestone and invite other organizations to celebrate and plan next steps to protect and support Lake Merritt.
String Quartet Concert
3pm Saturday, April 27th
You are warmly invited to the first-ever concert by the Musical Chairs Quartet, an Oakland-based string quartet composed of musicians in the Bay Area Rainbow Symphony: George Han, Mark Hodgson, Laurence Lewis, and Ken Schoon.
We’re excited to perform a wide-ranging program of string quartets not commonly heard, including works by two African American composers, Florence Price and William Grant Still, and a rarely played string quartet by Felix Mendelssohn.
When: Saturday, April 27 3-4pm. Doors open at 2:45, with a reception following the concert
Where: Lake Merritt United Methodist Church, 1330 Lakeshore Ave, Oakland (use lakeside entrance)
Please read ALL of the ANNOUNCEMENTS!
Holy Week Reminders
Request for Freshly Cut Flowers
Are you a home gardener? We invite you to bring freshly cut flowers from your yard on Easter morning for the children to use to decorate the cross during worship.
Easter Activities for Children
Please join us on Easter Sunday! The great surprise will be revealed during the children’s moment, and we will decorate the cross with flowers. Pre-school children will have their usual Godly Play-style storytime in the nursery. Elementary-age children will stay in the sanctuary where activity packets will be provided. Middle school helpers will hide Easter eggs during the service for our Easter egg hunt. Families don’t need to bring anything. The eggs are filled and bags will be provided. Just come on out to the courtyard right after church. See you on the 31st. –Margaret LeWright, Children’s Ministry Team co-leader.
Holy Week Worship Services
Friday, March 29
3pm Mass, 4:30 p.m. Ecumenical Good Friday Prayer Gathering
Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Church (2808 Lakeshore Ave) invites Oakland congregations (Lake Merritt United Methodist Church, Lakeshore Baptist Church, Montclair Presbyterian Church, Park Boulevard Presbyterian Church, St. John’s Episcopal Church, St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, and Corpus Christi Catholic Church) to attend their afternoon mass at 3pm. At 4:30pm, we will gather and process together to the Colonnade Plaza for a prayer service for our city and world. Public officials have been invited to attend.
7 p.m. Tenebrae and Taizé Service
Through the reading of scripture and the successive extinguishing of light in the Sanctuary, we are invited to enter into the dramatic narrative of Jesus’ betrayal, arrest, and crucifixion. Join us for a service of music, scriptures, shadows, darkness, and silence, reflecting the solemn mood of this day.
Christ is risen! He is risen indeed! Join us for a service filled with guest musicians, choir voices, spoken words, songs, and prayers. Please bring fresh-cut flowers for the children to decorate the Easter Cross, and plan to stay for fellowship after Worship. Your Easter offering will help support our children and youth ministries.
Sound Bath Returns!
6:45pm Friday, April 12th
After a month off in March, SoundBath returns on Friday, April 12th. What better way to end your week than by slowing down and relaxing, surrounded by meditative vibrations and melodies? Be immersed in flowing sounds as you sit in a chair or lie on the floor with your own mat, blanket, and/or pillow.
Admittance for the church community is donation based; $20 is suggested via cash, check, or Venmo. No RSVP needed. Doors open at 6:30 pm; please arrive by 6:45. Program begins promptly at 7:00pm.
Please read ALL of the ANNOUNCEMENTS!
Fellowship Food Volunteers Needed
Our fellowship time after worship on Sundays needs an ongoing supply of volunteers to provide food. Nothing fancy—veggies and dip, fresh fruit, cheese and crackers are always popular. Please look for the clipboard on the food table every Sunday and sign up for your Sunday(s) of choice and what you are planning to bring. There are three signup opportunities for each Sunday. Please see Laurel Williams if you have any questions.
Oakland Marathon Information
6-10am Sunday, March 17th
The annual Oakland Marathon may affect our access to church on Sunday, March 17th between 6am and 9:30am. The race should be finished on our portion of the route between 9:30 and 10am. Click here for more details, including maps with the full route and information on how to access the church before 10am.
Interfaith Gaza Ceasefire Pilgrimage
Saturday, March 23rd
On Saturday, March 23rd, Lake Merritt UMC and other congregations across the Bay Area will be participating in an interfaith pilgrimage dedicated to calling for a ceasefire in Gaza. The pilgrimage will consist of a daylong, 22-mile walk (broken into shorter legs) from Berkeley to Alameda, symbolizing the distance from Gaza City to the Rafah crossing refugee camp. LMUMC will be the gathering place for the 5th leg.
From 2:30 – 4:00 pm we will practice radical hospitality by opening our doors to pilgrims to offer water, food, restrooms, and a place to pray and rest. Please sign up here if you would like to support with welcoming walkers, setting up the space, or donating food items (among other tasks). In addition, we encourage you to participate in a short prayerful ceremony at 3:45 pm at church before pilgrims set off on the 5th leg, whether or not you volunteer for hospitality.
Several from LMUMC will be joining a short leg, a 1.5 mile communal walk at 12:00pm, starting at the Buddhist Church of Oakland and ending at the First Congregational Church of Oakland – culminating in a community ritual and press conference. To register or find more information about the pilgrimage, you can visit https://bit.ly/gcpeastbay. Please join us as we walk in prayerful solidarity with the people of Gaza and call for peace during this time of violence and suffering.
Voci Women’s Vocal Ensemble Concert
March 17th & 24th
Both timely and timeless, the theme of peace is often seen on choral stages. In this concert, led by Guest Conductor Ofer dal Lal, through sounds that are not only soothing but, at times, provoking, Voci will present a vision for a real peace–one that may require effort and even sacrifice. Peace on Earth requires a reconciliation of our rich and complex past, much the same way as a choir can only find harmony through mutual appreciation and collaboration among its members.
7 p.m. Sunday, March 17th
Montclair Presbyterian Church, Oakland
7 p.m. Sunday, March 24th
St. Clement’s Episcopal Church, Berkeley
Please read ALL of the ANNOUNCEMENTS!
No Sound Bath in March
Due to scheduling conflicts, we regretfully have to cancel Sound Bath on March 8th. Sound Bath will resume on April 12th.
Spring Forward
March 10th
Go to bed early this Saturday night and set your clocks forward. Daylight Savings time begins this Sunday, March 10th!
Celebration of Service and Love with Larry and Kris
March 10th
Join us during fellowship hour as we share our gratitude and support with Larry and Kris for their kind, loving service with our Lake Lunches distribution. Sign up here to bring a potluck dish (appetizer, side, main course, salad, snack, dessert). For more information, contact your Connectional Ministries Team – Galia nutrigalia@gmail.com
Fellowship Food Volunteers Needed
Our fellowship time after worship on Sundays needs an ongoing supply of volunteers to provide food. Nothing fancy—veggies and dip, fresh fruit, cheese and crackers are always popular. Please look for the clipboard on the food table every Sunday and sign up for your Sunday(s) of choice and what you are planning to bring. There are three signup opportunities for each Sunday. Please see Laurel Williams if you have any questions.
Membership Class with Pastor Sunae
March 10th & 17th
Do you wish to become a member of this diverse, inclusive, and welcoming community at Lake Merritt United Methodist Church? We invite you to attend a two-session membership class with Pastor Sunae on March 10 and March 17 in the Wesley Conference room. Would you fill out the membership form and give it to the ushers?
Oakland Marathon Information
6-10am Sunday, March 17th
The annual Oakland Marathon may affect our access to church on Sunday, March 17th between 6am and 9:30am. The race should be finished on our portion of the route between 9:30 and 10am. Click here for more details, including maps with the full route and information on how to access the church before 10am.
Interfaith Gaza Ceasefire Pilgrimage
Saturday, March 23rd
On Saturday, March 23rd, Lake Merritt UMC and other congregations across the Bay Area will be participating in an interfaith pilgrimage dedicated to calling for a ceasefire in Gaza. It will consist of a daylong, 22-mile walk (broken into shorter legs) from Berkeley to Alameda, representing the distance from Gaza City to the Rafah crossing refugee camp. LMUMC will be the gathering place for the 5th leg. From 2:30 – 4:00 pm we will open our doors to pilgrims to offer water, food, restrooms, and a place to pray and rest. Pastor Sunae reminds us that this is an opportunity to practice “radical hospitality” with our neighbors on this pilgrimage.
Members of LMUMC’s Peace in Palestine/Israel group are putting out a call for volunteers to help with various hospitality tasks on March 23. If you have any questions or would like to support, please contact Rose Lynn roselynn20@gmail.com, Becky rebecca.dean11@gmail.com, or Dan danjeffstrauss@gmail.com.
There will be options to participate for all ages and levels of ability including completing one or more 4-6 mile leg, a shorter walk (1.5 miles at noon along Lake Merritt), and other volunteer roles. This pilgrimage is part of a broader global effort taking place in over 145 cities in 18 countries. For more information, you can visit https://bit.ly/gcpeastbay. Please join us as we walk in prayerful solidarity with the people of Gaza and call for peace during this time of violence and suffering.
Voci Women’s Vocal Ensemble Concert
March 17th & 24th
Both timely and timeless, the theme of peace is often seen on choral stages. In this concert, led by Guest Conductor Ofer dal Lal, through sounds that are not only soothing but, at times, provoking, Voci will present a vision for a real peace–one that may require effort and even sacrifice. Peace on Earth requires a reconciliation of our rich and complex past, much the same way as a choir can only find harmony through mutual appreciation and collaboration among its members.
