Joint Circuit Annual Church Charge Conference
November 15 at 2 PM
New Bridges UMC
Join the Alameda-Oakland Circuit for our Annual Joint Church Charge Conference! Together, we will celebrate the ministries of this past year, affirm the work of our churches, and seek God’s blessing for the year ahead.
Come give thanks, encourage one another, and renew our commitment to serving our communities with faith and love. All are welcome!
Sign up to Volunteer with Our Food Pantry
Friday, November 20 and Saturday, November 21

The LMUMC Food Program thanks all the congregation members who volunteered with our food pantry last month.
We invite members of the congregation and the public to volunteer. You are welcome to volunteer in different ways: On Fridays, volunteers help receive and set up the food pantry (10 AM – 11 AM), and on Saturdays, volunteers will facilitate food distribution (8 AM – 10 AM).
If you are interested in serving through our ministries, click HERE.
Not free this month? Mark your calendar for later this year! See our future set-up and distribution dates below:
December 18 and 19, January 22 and 23
Calling All Elves To Make Ornaments!
Sunday, November 22nd
Lake Merritt UMC
Please join us after Worship on Sunday, November 22nd to make Christmas ornaments.
Everyone is invited to gather in the Stark Room for Fellowship and to make simple ornaments for our Church Christmas tree.
No crafting experience is necessary, and we need many helping hands for this fun activity! Our children will decorate the tree on Sunday, November 29th, during Worship.
Special Fellowship Conversation and Food
With Friends of Wadi Foquin and Peace in Palestine Circle
November 22 after Worship
Lake Merritt UMC
The LMUMC Friends of Wadi Foquin/Peace in Palestine circle invites you to join fellowship hour on Nov 22nd following Deacon Ken’s message about his recent experiences in the village. We will be serving food prepared by a local Palestinian chef, and also have books and shirts available for sale to benefit Friends of Wadi Foquin.
Thanksgiving Meal Volunteer Sign-up

Our 41st annual Community Thanksgiving meal will soon arrive! Please sign up to volunteer with preparations beforehand or on Thanksgiving Day. We also need 40 pies! Sign up to bring one as well. Sign up by clicking THIS LINK or find it on the church website homepage. Let’s make our 41st Thanksgiving meal extra special! For questions, contact Liz Hendrickson or Tom Huetteman.
Advent Reflection Small Group
“Preparing for Christmas, Daily Meditations for Advent”
4 Sessions, 12 PM – 1 PM
Wednesdays, December 2, 9, and 16 & Monday, December 21
What if Advent is not merely a sentimental countdown to Christmas but a summons to deeper awakening?
In “Preparing for Christmas, Daily Meditations for Advent”, Richard Rohr invites us to move beyond the religious nostalgia of Advent to explore its deeper meaning as a time of spiritual awakening and transformation. Our Advent Small Group participants are invited to read the book’s daily Scripture reading and Rohr’s short writing & reflection question on their own. And then weekly, to come together virtually in community to connect, share, and discuss.
Looking for a meaningful way to slow down, perhaps as a respite to the busy-ness of the holiday season?
This could be it!
RSVP to Juliet Hannafin (juliethannafin@gmail.com) or Marlene Yamashita (maryamca@att.net)
For more details, CLICK HERE
Voci Women’s Vocal Ensemble Concerts
“Launch into the Light”
November 14th and 15th

Voci’s Fall 2026 program, “Launch into the Light,” will feature songs of light chosen to accompany various J.M.W. Turner paintings. The paintings, evocative of his beautiful work, will be projected during the concert.
Join Voci on November 14th in Piedmont and on November 15th in Orinda. Tickets and details are at VociSings.org
Love Over Fear 25th Anniversary Concert
Organized by Interfaith Movement for Human Integrity
November 19th @ 6 PM
The Freight
2020 Addison St. Berkeley

The 2026 Love Over Fear Benefit Concert is an inspiring evening of music and storytelling celebrating Interfaith Movement for Human Integrity’s 25th anniversary.
The event will feature an extraordinary lineup of talented local BIPOC musicians exploring themes of journey, justice, and liberation. Proceeds from the concert will support IM4HI’s work to uphold the full humanity of every individual through immigration and decarceration advocacy, accompaniment, and the leadership development of directly impacted leaders and faith allies.
Doors open at 6:00 PM | Concert begins at 6:30 PM
Tickets are general admission and available on a sliding scale of $20–$50.
To purchase your ticket, CLICK HERE
2026 Choir Blast
“Love Lead the Way”
Saturday, Nov. 21@ 4PM
and Sunday, Nov.22 @ 10:30AM
The Freight
2020 Addison St. Berkeley

BMUC Choir is excited to welcome you to our 2026 Choir Blast, “Love Lead the Way” on Saturday, Nov. 21@4PM, and Sunday, Nov.22@10:30AM! They also welcome a special guests, the Yiddish Singers for Palestine.
Their first Choir Blast was in 2006, making this their 20th anniversary!
They are also pleased to offer for sale delicious Bento Box Dinners from Kirala (Saturday, $25) and Musashi.(Sunday, $27)
To learn more and order your Bento Box Dinner, CLICK HERE
(Boxes available for order until November 12)
A Musical Feast
Saturday, November 7th at 7pm
Lake Merritt United Methodist Church

Saturday, November 7th at 7pm in the LMUMC Sanctuary, come hear Vox Alta, a collaborative ensemble of nine vocalists including our own Anne Hege, sing music about food – food for the soul, food for the body, and people who really, really love their food. Admission is free and attendees are invited to make a donation to the Lake Merritt UMC Food Programs. The program will last about an hour.
Joint Circuit Annual Church Charge Conference
November 15 at 2 PM
New Bridges UMC
Join the Alameda-Oakland Circuit for our Annual Joint Church Charge Conference! Together, we will celebrate the ministries of this past year, affirm the work of our churches, and seek God’s blessing for the year ahead.
Come give thanks, encourage one another, and renew our commitment to serving our communities with faith and love. All are welcome!
Sign up to Volunteer with Our Food Pantry
Friday, November 20 and Saturday, November 21

The LMUMC Food Program thanks all the congregation members who volunteered with our food pantry last month.
We invite members of the congregation and the public to volunteer. You are welcome to volunteer in different ways: On Fridays, volunteers help receive and set up the food pantry (10 AM – 11 AM), and on Saturdays, volunteers will facilitate food distribution (8 AM – 10 AM).
If you are interested in serving through our ministries, click HERE.
Not free this month? Mark your calendar for later this year! See our future set-up and distribution dates below:
December 18 and 19, January 22 and 23
Special Fellowship Conversation and Food
With Friends of Wadi Foquin and Peace in Palestine Circle
November 22 after Worship
Lake Merritt UMC
The LMUMC Friends of Wadi Foquin/Peace in Palestine circle invites you to join fellowship hour on Nov 22nd following Deacon Ken’s message about his recent experiences in the village. We will be serving food prepared by a local Palestinian chef, and also have books and shirts available for sale to benefit Friends of Wadi Foquin.
New Photo Directory
Information Coming Soon!
Lake Merritt UMC

We are in the early stages of planning for the creation of a new photo directory.
Be on the lookout for updates on photo taking and photo submission.
Thanksgiving Meal Volunteer Sign-up

Our 41st annual Community Thanksgiving meal will soon arrive! Please sign up to volunteer with preparations beforehand or on Thanksgiving Day. We also need 40 pies! Sign up to bring one as well. Sign up by clicking THIS LINK or find it on the church website homepage. Let’s make our 41st Thanksgiving meal extra special! For questions, contact Liz Hendrickson or Tom Huetteman.
Interfaith Gathering and March
Wednesday, November 4, 10 AM to 12 PM
First Unitarian Church of Oakland, 685 4th Street (10AM)
Federal Building, 1301 Clay Street (11AM)

People of faith and faith leaders must provide moral leadership when there is election interference that threatens our democracy.
We can use our moral authority to condemn election meddling and attempts to silence dissent.
First Unitarian Church of Oakland asks us to join together for reflection, prayer, and song before a march to the Oakland federal building for a rally.
To RSVP and receive the most up-to-date info, CLICK HERE.
“The Apology” Film Screening and Discussion
Saturday, November 7, 2:30 to 5:00 p.m.
Hosted by Buena Vista UMC
2311 Buena Vista Ave., Alameda

In 1963, Alameda County and the City of Hayward cleared Russell City, a thriving Black and Latino community of 1,400 people, to make way for an industrial park. Buena Vista UMC will screen Mimi Chakarova’s documentary The Apology, featuring former residents and their descendants, followed by a conversation with Dr. Shadrick Small of the Alameda County Reparations Commission. The Commission’s final report names Russell City, along with redlining, urban renewal, freeway construction, and BART-related displacement, as government actions behind today’s gaps in housing, wealth, health, and opportunity for Black residents.
RSVPs are requested. To RSVP click below.
RSVP
Healing the World Conference
Saturday, November 7, 9:30 AM – 1 PM
Hosted by Taylor Memorial United Methodist Church
1188 12th Street, Oakland, CA 94607

Please join the California-Nevada Conference Committee on African American/Black Ministry and Black Methodists for Church Renewal for the Third Healing the World Conference in 2026.
Hosted by the California-Nevada Conference Committee on African American/Black Ministry in partnership with Black Methodists for Church Renewal.
Date & Time: Saturday, November 7, 2026, 9:30 AM–1:00 PM
Registration: CLICK HERE
A Concert of Hope and Repair:
Voices in Harmony, Building Futures Together
Sunday, November 8, 4 PM – 5:30 PM
1953 Hopkins Street, Berkeley, CA 94707

Come for an evening of spirituals benefiting the Black Wealth Builders Fund.
Hosted by Epworth UMC in partnership with Arlington Community Church, Kensington.
Date & Time: Sunday, November 8, 2026, 4–5:30 pm; reception to follow.
Suggested Contribution: $15-$100 suggested donation. No one turned away for lack of funds
Oakland Methodist Foundation Quarterly Meeting
Wednesday, November 11 @ 7 PM
Lake Merritt UMC

For more than 70 years the Oakland Methodist Foundation (OMF) has supported a range of church, community, and charitable activities.
The Community Assistance Fund of the OMF awards grants primarily to charitable organizations in the East Bay, with a focus on small or fledgling groups.
The OMF also supports the mission and ministry of the United Methodist Church and maintains close ties to Lake Merritt United Methodist Church in Oakland, CA. Church members have been the OMF’s main contributors.
Interested in learning more? Check out the OMF website or contact Wayne Fabrizio
Voci Women’s Vocal Ensemble Concerts
“Launch into the Light”
November 14th and 15th

Voci’s Fall 2026 program, “Launch into the Light,” will feature songs of light chosen to accompany various J.M.W. Turner paintings. The paintings, evocative of his beautiful work, will be projected during the concert.
Join Voci on November 14th in Piedmont and on November 15th in Orinda. Tickets and details are at VociSings.org
Love Over Fear 25th Anniversary Concert
Organized by Interfaith Movement for Human Integrity
November 19th @ 6 PM
The Freight
2020 Addison St. Berkeley

The 2026 Love Over Fear Benefit Concert is an inspiring evening of music and storytelling celebrating Interfaith Movement for Human Integrity’s 25th anniversary.
The event will feature an extraordinary lineup of talented local BIPOC musicians exploring themes of journey, justice, and liberation. Proceeds from the concert will support IM4HI’s work to uphold the full humanity of every individual through immigration and decarceration advocacy, accompaniment, and the leadership development of directly impacted leaders and faith allies.
Doors open at 6:00 PM | Concert begins at 6:30 PM
Tickets are general admission and available on a sliding scale of $20–$50.
To purchase your ticket, CLICK HERE
Daylight Saving Time Change
This Sunday, November 1 at 2 AM
On Sunday, November 1, clocks will “fall back” by one hour at 2 AM. If you have any clocks, watches, or devices that do not fall back automatically, be sure to adjust them on Sunday morning.
Celebrating November Birthdays
Sunday, November 1st
This Sunday, November 1st, we will honor everyone who will be celebrating their birthdays in November. There will be birthday cake for all to share during fellowship time immediately following Worship.
A Musical Feast
Saturday, November 7th at 7pm
Lake Merritt United Methodist Church

Saturday, November 7th at 7pm in the LMUMC Sanctuary, come hear Vox Alta, a collaborative ensemble of nine vocalists including our own Anne Hege, sing music about food – food for the soul, food for the body, and people who really, really love their food. Admission is free and attendees are invited to make a donation to the Lake Merritt UMC Food Programs. The program will last about an hour.
Joint Circuit Annual Church Charge Conference
November 15 at 2 PM
New Bridges UMC
Join the Alameda-Oakland Circuit for our Annual Joint Church Charge Conference! Together, we will celebrate the ministries of this past year, affirm the work of our churches, and seek God’s blessing for the year ahead.
Come give thanks, encourage one another, and renew our commitment to serving our communities with faith and love. All are welcome!
New Photo Directory
Information Coming Soon!
Lake Merritt UMC

We are in the early stages of planning for the creation of a new photo directory.
Be on the lookout for updates in next week’s eblast.
Thanksgiving Meal Volunteer Sign-up

Our 41st annual Community Thanksgiving meal will soon arrive! Please sign up to volunteer with preparations beforehand or on Thanksgiving Day. We also need 40 pies! Sign up to bring one as well. Sign up by clicking THIS LINK or find it on the church website homepage. Let’s make our 41st Thanksgiving meal extra special! For questions, contact Liz Hendrickson or Tom Huetteman.
Faithful in This Hour:
An Election Eve Service of Prayer, Courage, and Commitment to the Common Good
Monday, November 2 @ 4 PM
Virtual Event on Zoom

On the eve of the 2026 U.S. midterm elections, join the General Board of Church and Society for Faithful in This Hour, a virtual service of prayer, discernment, and a renewed commitment to the common good.
Through worship and intentional prayer, participants are invited to listen to members of the faith community and reflect on voting their values with humility and care, supporting equitable civic participation, and renewing their commitment to the work of justice beyond Election Day.
To register, click below:
REGISTER HERE
Interfaith Gathering and March
Wednesday, November 4, 10 AM to 12 PM
First Unitarian Church of Oakland, 685 4th Street (10AM)
Federal Building, 1301 Clay Street (11AM)

People of faith and faith leaders must provide moral leadership when there is election interference that threatens our democracy.
We can use our moral authority to condemn election meddling and attempts to silence dissent.
First Unitarian Church of Oakland asks us to join together for reflection, prayer, and song before a march to the Oakland federal building for a rally.
To RSVP and receive the most up-to-date info, CLICK HERE.
“The Apology” Film Screening and Discussion
Saturday, November 7, 2:30 to 5:00 p.m.
Hosted by Buena Vista UMC
2311 Buena Vista Ave., Alameda

In 1963, Alameda County and the City of Hayward cleared Russell City, a thriving Black and Latino community of 1,400 people, to make way for an industrial park. Buena Vista UMC will screen Mimi Chakarova’s documentary The Apology, featuring former residents and their descendants, followed by a conversation with Dr. Shadrick Small of the Alameda County Reparations Commission. The Commission’s final report names Russell City, along with redlining, urban renewal, freeway construction, and BART-related displacement, as government actions behind today’s gaps in housing, wealth, health, and opportunity for Black residents.
RSVPs are requested. To RSVP click below.
RSVP
Healing the World Conference
Saturday, November 7, 9:30 AM – 1 PM
Hosted by Taylor Memorial United Methodist Church
1188 12th Street, Oakland, CA 94607

Please join the California-Nevada Conference Committee on African American/Black Ministry and Black Methodists for Church Renewal for the Third Healing the World Conference in 2026.
Hosted by the California-Nevada Conference Committee on African American/Black Ministry in partnership with Black Methodists for Church Renewal.
Date & Time: Saturday, November 7, 2026, 9:30 AM–1:00 PM
Registration: CLICK HERE
A Concert of Hope and Repair:
Voices in Harmony, Building Futures Together
Sunday, November 8, 4 PM – 5:30 PM
1953 Hopkins Street, Berkeley, CA 94707

Come for an evening of spirituals benefiting the Black Wealth Builders Fund.
Hosted by Epworth UMC in partnership with Arlington Community Church, Kensington.
Date & Time: Sunday, November 8, 2026, 4–5:30 pm; reception to follow.
Suggested Contribution: $15-$100 suggested donation. No one turned away for lack of funds
Voci Women’s Vocal Ensemble Concerts
“Launch into the Light”
November 14th and 15th

Voci’s Fall 2026 program, “Launch into the Light,” will feature songs of light chosen to accompany various J.M.W. Turner paintings. The paintings, evocative of his beautiful work, will be projected during the concert.
Join Voci on November 14th in Piedmont and on November 15th in Orinda. Tickets and details are at VociSings.org
Love Over Fear 25th Anniversary Concert
Organized by Interfaith Movement for Human Integrity
November 19th @ 6 PM
The Freight
2020 Addison St. Berkeley

The 2026 Love Over Fear Benefit Concert is an inspiring evening of music and storytelling celebrating Interfaith Movement for Human Integrity’s 25th anniversary.
The event will feature an extraordinary lineup of talented local BIPOC musicians exploring themes of journey, justice, and liberation. Proceeds from the concert will support IM4HI’s work to uphold the full humanity of every individual through immigration and decarceration advocacy, accompaniment, and the leadership development of directly impacted leaders and faith allies.
Doors open at 6:00 PM | Concert begins at 6:30 PM
Tickets are general admission and available on a sliding scale of $20–$50.
To purchase your ticket, CLICK HERE
Sign up to Volunteer with Our Food Pantry
Friday, October 23 and Saturday, October 24
The LMUMC Food Program thanks all the congregation members who volunteered with our food pantry last month.
We invite members of the congregation and the public to volunteer. You are welcome to volunteer in different ways: On Fridays, volunteers help receive and set up the food pantry (10 AM – 11 AM), and on Saturdays, volunteers will facilitate food distribution (8 AM – 10 AM).
If you are interested in serving through our ministries, click HERE.
Not free this month? Mark your calendar for later this year! See our future set-up and distribution dates below:
November 20 and 21 | December 18 and 19
Ballot Walk Through Party
Sunday, October 25 | After Worship
Lake Merritt UMC

Does your ballot feel long or confusing? You’re not alone! Join us at Lake Merritt UMC after worship for an informal Ballot Walk Through Party—a welcoming space to read, reflect, and prepare to vote together.
Bring your mail ballot, or use a blank sample ballot to make notes as we walk through the proposition information. Sharing this time in community can make voting feel more manageable—and even joyful.
This gathering is nonpartisan. No one will be told how to vote. Each person will make their own choices and complete their ballot privately, or mark a sample ballot to take home.
Come as you are, bring your questions, and get ready to make your voices heard through your vote.
Daylight Saving Time Change
Sunday, November 1 at 2 AM
On Sunday, November 1, clocks will “fall back” by one hour at 2 AM. If you have any clocks, watches, or devices that do not fall back automatically, be sure to adjust them on Sunday morning.
A Musical Feast
Saturday, November 7th at 7pm
Lake Merritt United Methodist Church

Saturday, November 7th at 7pm in the LMUMC Sanctuary, come hear Vox Alta, a collaborative ensemble of nine vocalists including our own Anne Hege, sing music about food – food for the soul, food for the body, and people who really, really love their food. Admission is free and attendees are invited to make a donation to the Lake Merritt UMC Food Programs. The program will last about an hour.
Joint Circuit Annual Church Charge Conference
November 15 at 2 PM
New Bridges UMC
Join the Alameda-Oakland Circuit for our Annual Joint Church Charge Conference! Together, we will celebrate the ministries of this past year, affirm the work of our churches, and seek God’s blessing for the year ahead.
Come give thanks, encourage one another, and renew our commitment to serving our communities with faith and love. All are welcome!
Thanksgiving Meal Volunteer Sign-up

Our 41st annual Community Thanksgiving meal will soon arrive! Please sign up to volunteer with preparations beforehand or on Thanksgiving Day. We also need 40 pies! Sign up to bring one as well. Sign up by clicking THIS LINK or find it on the church website homepage. Let’s make our 41st Thanksgiving meal extra special! For questions, contact Liz Hendrickson or Tom Huetteman.
Special Film Screening
Bloom Where You Are Planted
Sunday, October 25
Chinese Community UMC:
321 8th Street, Oakland

The California‑Nevada UMC Philippine Solidarity Task Force invites church communities to a screening of Bloom Where You Are Planted, directed by Noni Abao.
The event will be held on Sunday, October 25, 2026, from 4:00–6:00 PM at Chinese Community UMC in Oakland, with a discussion panel following the film.
Admission is free, and RSVPs are encouraged. To RSVP, CLICK HERE.
Street meters are enforced on Sundays, and the Pacific Renaissance Plaza Garage offers a $2 rate after 2:00 PM (see parking garage information HERE).
This gathering aims to strengthen relationships and deepen shared commitments to justice and solidarity
Voci Women’s Vocal Ensemble Concerts
“Launch into the Light”
November 14th and 15th
Voci’s Fall 2026 program, “Launch into the Light,” will feature songs of light chosen to accompany various J.M.W. Turner paintings. The paintings, evocative of his beautiful work, will be projected during the concert.
Join Voci on November 14th in Piedmont and on November 15th in Orinda. Tickets and details are at VociSings.org
Please Use Parking Garage During Weekdays
Our Food Ministries and other programs are thankful to have a growing number of volunteers serving and enjoying time at the Church during the week.
Unfortunately, the First Ave. parking lot can occasionally be too small for all attendees.
If you have a garage remote, we ask that you park in the garage if you drive to the Church during the day, Monday through Friday.
Sign up to Volunteer with Our Food Pantry
Friday, October 23 and Saturday, October 24
The LMUMC Food Program thanks all the congregation members who volunteered with our food pantry last month.
We invite members of the congregation and the public to volunteer. You are welcome to volunteer in different ways: On Fridays, volunteers help receive and set up the food pantry (10 AM – 11 AM), and on Saturdays, volunteers will facilitate food distribution (8 AM – 10 AM).
If you are interested in serving through our ministries, click HERE.
Not free this month? Mark your calendar for later this year! See our future set-up and distribution dates below:
November 20 and 21 | December 18 and 19
Ballot Walk Through Party
Sunday, October 25 | After Worship
Lake Merritt UMC

Does your ballot feel long or confusing? You’re not alone! Join us at Lake Merritt UMC after worship for an informal Ballot Walk Through Party—a welcoming space to read, reflect, and prepare to vote together.
Bring your mail ballot, or use a blank sample ballot to make notes as we walk through the proposition information. Sharing this time in community can make voting feel more manageable—and even joyful.
This gathering is nonpartisan. No one will be told how to vote. Each person will make their own choices and complete their ballot privately, or mark a sample ballot to take home.
Come as you are, bring your questions, and get ready to make your voices heard through your vote.
Joint Circuit Annual Church Charge Conference
November 15 at 2 PM
New Bridges UMC
Join the Alameda-Oakland Circuit for our Annual Joint Church Charge Conference! Together, we will celebrate the ministries of this past year, affirm the work of our churches, and seek God’s blessing for the year ahead.
Come give thanks, encourage one another, and renew our commitment to serving our communities with faith and love. All are welcome!
Thanksgiving Meal Volunteer Sign-up

Our 41st annual Community Thanksgiving meal will soon arrive! Please sign up to volunteer with preparations beforehand or on Thanksgiving Day. We also need 40 pies! Sign up to bring one as well. Sign up by clicking THIS LINK or find it on the church website homepage. Let’s make our 41st Thanksgiving meal extra special! For questions, contact Liz Hendrickson or Tom Huetteman.
Countering Christian Nationalism
Protect Our Democracy & Reclaim Christianity
Thursday, October 15, 6:00 – 8:00 PM
St. John’s Episcopal Church, Oakland
Join us for a screening of the newly updated documentary – “Bad Faith 2026” + food + learning, conversations, and action around this very important topic.
St. John’s Episcopal is one of our OCT (Oakland Churches Together) partners.
Free meal and child care provided. To register, click HERE
Additional details in flyer HERE
Bring family, friends, neighbors. It’s important for people to be aware of the intent and actions that are really going on behind the Christian Nationalism rhetoric.
Questions? Contact: Marlene Yamashita or Dan Strauss
Come & See
Introducing Intentional Inclusive Communities
Friday, October 16, 1:00 – 3:00 PM
Online Via Zoom

What does it take to build communities where people can truly belong, participate, connect, and flourish?
Join the Center for Intentional Inclusive Community (C4IIC) for an interative introduction to Intentional Inclusive Community.
To learn more and register for this event, CLICK HERE or scan the QR code in the flyer.
When Our Theology Harms:
Uprooting Christian Zionism Together
Four Consecutive Wednesdays
October 21
Noon – 1:15 PM on Zoom

The Palestine Task Force and Friends of Wadi Foquin will host a 4-part Zoom study.
Study launches on Wednesday, Sept. 30th.
We will meet for 4 consecutive Wednesdays (9/30, 10/7, 10/14, 10/21) Via Zoom
Noon – 1:15PM
For more information & to register CLICK HERE
(NOTE: Link will be sent out 1 week prior to Sept. 30th)
Children’s Sabbath
Sunday, October 11

Join us for Children’s Sabbath as LMUMC’s children and youth help lead worship. Tiffany Wycoff, founder of Generation Remix, and youths from her organization will speak about social media’s influence on young people and digital well-being.
After worship, stay for fellowship and a Q&A with the Generation Remix youth in the courtyard. Come celebrate our children, hear from young people, and join this important conversation. Families are invited to sit near the front so children and youth can easily join the opening and closing songs.
Book Reading and Signing with Mary Elyn Bahlert
Sunday, October 11 at 4 PM
Lake Merritt UMC, Edwards Room

Join Mary Elyn Bahlert for a reading/signing event on the occasion of her first published book of poetry, Moments. The event will be held on Sunday, October 11 at 4 pm in the Edwards Room. Her book is also available on Amazon HERE.
If you would like to volunteer to help set up or clean up for the event, please contact Sean in the Office by email or phone.
Please Use Parking Garage During Weekdays
Our Food Ministries and other programs are thankful to have a growing number of volunteers serving and enjoying time at the Church during the week.
Unfortunately, the First Ave. parking lot can occasionally be too small for all attendees.
If you have a garage remote, we ask that you park in the garage if you drive to the Church during the day, Monday through Friday.
Music Director Jim Meredith to be on Vacation
September 23 – October 17
Pianist Ellen St. Thomas will be substituting for him for the 3 services during his absence. There will also be no choir practice during this period.
Sign up to Volunteer with Our Food Pantry
Friday, October 23 and Saturday, October 24
The LMUMC Food Program thanks all the congregation members who volunteered with our food pantry last month.
We invite members of the congregation and the public to volunteer. You are welcome to volunteer in different ways: On Fridays, volunteers help receive and set up the food pantry (10 AM – 11 AM), and on Saturdays, volunteers will facilitate food distribution (8 AM – 10 AM).
If you are interested in serving through our ministries, click HERE.
Not free this month? Mark your calendar for later this year! See our future set-up and distribution dates below:
November 20 and 21 | December 18 and 19
Joint Circuit Annual Church Charge Conference
November 15 at 2 PM
New Bridges UMC
Join the Alameda-Oakland Circuit for our Annual Joint Church Charge Conference! Together, we will celebrate the ministries of this past year, affirm the work of our churches, and seek God’s blessing for the year ahead.
Come give thanks, encourage one another, and renew our commitment to serving our communities with faith and love. All are welcome!
Countering Christian Nationalism
Protect Our Democracy & Reclaim Christianity
Thursday, October 15, 6:00 – 8:00 PM
St. John’s Episcopal Church, Oakland
Join us for a screening of the newly updated documentary – “Bad Faith 2026” + food + learning, conversations, and action around this very important topic.
St. John’s Episcopal is one of our OCT (Oakland Churches Together) partners.
Free meal and child care provided. To register, click HERE
Additional details in flyer HERE
Bring family, friends, neighbors. It’s important for people to be aware of the intent and actions that are really going on behind the Christian Nationalism rhetoric.
Questions? Contact: Marlene Yamashita or Dan Strauss
Come & See
Introducing Intentional Inclusive Communities
Friday, October 16, 1:00 – 3:00 PM
Online Via Zoom

What does it take to build communities where people can truly belong, participate, connect, and flourish?
Join the Center for Intentional Inclusive Community (C4IIC) for an interative introduction to Intentional Inclusive Community.
To learn more and register for this event, CLICK HERE or scan the QR code in the flyer.
When Our Theology Harms:
Uprooting Christian Zionism Together
Four Consecutive Wednesdays
October 14, and October 21
Noon – 1:15 PM on Zoom

The Palestine Task Force and Friends of Wadi Foquin will host a 4-part Zoom study.
Study launches on Wednesday, Sept. 30th.
We will meet for 4 consecutive Wednesdays (9/30, 10/7, 10/14, 10/21) Via Zoom
Noon – 1:15PM
For more information & to register CLICK HERE
(NOTE: Link will be sent out 1 week prior to Sept. 30th)