Celebration of Baptism and Receiving New Members
Sunday, May 31
This Sunday, we joyfully celebrate the sacrament of Baptism and welcome new members into the life of the Church. Together, we give thanks for God’s grace, new life, and the growing community of faith at Lake Merritt United Methodist Church. Please join us as we welcome and celebrate these beloved siblings in Christ.
Pastor Sunae and Mike on a Renewal Leave
June 1 – August 31, 2026
Beginning June 1 through August 31, 2026, Pastor Sunae Cho will be on Renewal Leave for a season of rest, renewal, travel, reflection, and reconnection with family and creation. She will return to ministry on September 1, 2026.
During this time, Pastor Sunae will be fully disconnecting from all ministry responsibilities and communications in order to embrace this sacred season of renewal fully.
We invite the congregation to hold Pastor Sunae and Mike in prayer during this time away. May this season bring deep rest, joy, healing, and spiritual refreshment as she prepares for continued ministry among us.
We give thanks for Pastor Sunae’s leadership and look forward to welcoming her back in September.
James Aoki Memorial Service
Saturday, May 30, 2026, 2:00 PM
Chapel of the Chimes
4499 Piedmont Ave., Oakland, CA
Jim and his surviving wife Anne were longtime members of Lake Park UMC. Though recently living in New Hampshire most of the time he joined Lake Merritt when the churches merged.
Berkeley United Methodist Church Annual Bazaar
Sunday, June 7, 12 PM – 4 PM
1710 Carleton St, Berkeley, CA 94703
BMUC Annual Bazaar 2026 is set for June 7th, 12 PM -4 PM. The tradition continues, once again offering food, fun, and fellowship to the community.
If you wish to preorder, you can do so HERE until May 29. Walk-ins will also be available.
Be part of the magic: Homestay & Volunteer for the Golden Gate Festival 2026!
July 13–18, 2026
Piedmont East Bay Children’s Choirs is announcing a call for homestay hosts and volunteers for the 13th Golden Gate International Choral Festival, taking place July 13–18, 2026. They will welcome thirteen choirs and approximately 200 visiting youth singers from around the world and are seeking families to provide homestays (typically in pairs) and community volunteers to assist with rehearsals, concerts, transportation, and hospitality. Hosts provide housing, meals, and transportation while volunteers support logistics and help create a warm festival atmosphere that fosters cultural exchange and lasting friendships.
No special facilities are required—any welcoming home or a few hours of volunteer time make a meaningful difference.
For more information, CLICK HERE.
The Funeral Service of Clara Elizabeth Sims
Thursday, May 22 at 11:00 AM
At Lake Merritt United Methodist Church
A Light lunch reception will follow the service
With gratitude for her life and faith, family and friends are warmly invited to a Service of Death and Resurrection celebrating the life of Clara Elizabeth Sims.
Sign up to Volunteer with Our Food Pantry
Friday, May 22 and Saturday, May 23
Fourth Saturday of every month
Our Food Ministries invite members of the congregation and the public to volunteer with our monthly food pantry. 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 Saturday, volunteers will facilitate food distribution (8 AM – 10 AM).
If you are interested in serving through our ministries, click HERE.
Church Office Closed for Memorial Day
Monday, May 25
The Church Office will be closed on Monday, May 25, in observance of the Memorial Day holiday.
May Events with our OCT Partners
Interested in expanding your impact, your reach, and your fun? If so, check out the events being held in conjunction with our ecumenical church partners through OCT (Oakland Churches Together). They are meaningful opportunities to join with other like-minded people and churches to make a difference in our local community. All are welcome!
For more details, click HERE.
For any questions, please contact Marlene Yamashita (925-286-9682, maryamca@att.net) or Dan Strauss (510-504-4765, danjeffstrauss@gmail.com)
Friends of Wadi Foquin: Upcoming Event
The LMUMC Peace in Palestine–Friends of Wadi Foquin Circle warmly invites you to join this event:
Steadfast Friendship & Spiritual Solidarity — 10-Year Celebration of FWF
Saturday, May 23, 2:00–4:30 p.m., Livermore Asbury UMC
Celebrate a decade of faithful partnership at this special gathering featuring Bishop Sandra Olewine (Cal-Nev Annual Conference) and other special guests. Enjoy fragrant tea, homemade Palestinian treats, and community fellowship.
Reserve a spot at the LMUMC table by contacting Deacon Ken or another PiP–FoWF member, or RSVP individually/host a table HERE. Deadline: May 10.
Be part of the magic: Homestay & Volunteer for the Golden Gate Festival 2026!
July 13–18, 2026
Piedmont East Bay Children’s Choirs is announcing a call for homestay hosts and volunteers for the 13th Golden Gate International Choral Festival, taking place July 13–18, 2026. They will welcome thirteen choirs and approximately 200 visiting youth singers from around the world and are seeking families to provide homestays (typically in pairs) and community volunteers to assist with rehearsals, concerts, transportation, and hospitality. Hosts provide housing, meals, and transportation while volunteers support logistics and help create a warm festival atmosphere that fosters cultural exchange and lasting friendships.
No special facilities are required—any welcoming home or a few hours of volunteer time make a meaningful difference.
For more information, CLICK HERE.
May Events with our OCT Partners
Interested in expanding your impact, your reach, and your fun? If so, check out the events being held in conjunction with our ecumenical church partners through OCT (Oakland Churches Together). They are meaningful opportunities to join with other like-minded people and churches to make a difference in our local community. All are welcome!
For more details, click HERE.
For any questions, please contact Marlene Yamashita (925-286-9682, maryamca@att.net) or Dan Strauss (510-504-4765, danjeffstrauss@gmail.com)
Friends of Wadi Foquin: Upcoming Events
First Sunday and Third Weekend of Each Month
The LMUMC Peace in Palestine–Friends of Wadi Foquin Circle warmly invites you to join several meaningful upcoming events:
Steadfast Friendship & Spiritual Solidarity — 10-Year Celebration of FWF
Saturday, May 23, 2:00–4:30 p.m., Livermore Asbury UMC
Celebrate a decade of faithful partnership at this special gathering featuring Bishop Sandra Olewine (Cal-Nev Annual Conference) and other special guests. Enjoy fragrant tea, homemade Palestinian treats, and community fellowship.
Reserve a spot at the LMUMC table by contacting Deacon Ken or another PiP–FoWF member, or RSVP individually/host a table HERE. Deadline: May 10.
Sign up to Volunteer with Our Food Pantry
Friday, May 22 and Saturday, May 23
Fourth Saturday of every month
Our Food Ministries invite members of the congregation and the public to volunteer with our monthly food pantry. 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 Saturday, volunteers will facilitate food distribution (8 AM – 10 AM).
If you are interested in serving through our ministries, click HERE.
Young Musicians Choral Orchestra Senior Recital
Sunday, May 17 at 4 PM
Lake Merritt UMC
Join the Young Musicians Choral Orchestra in celebrating the Class of 2026 at their Senior Recital! These talented seniors will showcase their hard work, growth, and artistry in inspiring performances. Three of these 6 seniors are voice students of our music director, Jim Meredith and have contributed their talents to our worship services. They will be matriculating in the Fall on scholarships at 3 California universities: University of Southern California, UC Long Beach and UC Santa Cruz. This special event is open to the community—don’t miss it! (www.youngmusiciansco.org)
Feeding the Hungry as an Antiracist Practice
Saturday, May 16 (register by May 12)
Old First Presbyterian Church AND online
Join the West Region Antiracism Group to learn about the intersection of food insecurity and structural racism. The event is sponsored by West Region Antiracism Group and will feature speakers Shakirah Simley and Marchon Tatmon. It will also include breakout group discussions and opportunities to connect our work to broader antiracism efforts.
This is a HYBRID event. To attend online or in-person, REGISTER HERE.
For thos attending in-person, validated parking is available at Old First Garage, 1725 Sacramento Street. Public transit is also available. Click here for a downloadable flyer to share.
Be part of the magic: Homestay & Volunteer for the Golden Gate Festival 2026!
July 13–18, 2026
Piedmont East Bay Children’s Choirs is announcing a call for homestay hosts and volunteers for the 13th Golden Gate International Choral Festival, taking place July 13–18, 2026. They will welcome thirteen choirs and approximately 200 visiting youth singers from around the world and are seeking families to provide homestays (typically in pairs) and community volunteers to assist with rehearsals, concerts, transportation, and hospitality. Hosts provide housing, meals, and transportation while volunteers support logistics and help create a warm festival atmosphere that fosters cultural exchange and lasting friendships.
No special facilities are required—any welcoming home or a few hours of volunteer time make a meaningful difference.
For more information, CLICK HERE.
May Events with our OCT Partners
Interested in expanding your impact, your reach, and your fun? If so, check out the events being held in conjunction with our ecumenical church partners through OCT (Oakland Churches Together). They are meaningful opportunities to join with other like-minded people and churches to make a difference in our local community. All are welcome!
For more details, click HERE.
For any questions, please contact Marlene Yamashita (925-286-9682, maryamca@att.net) or Dan Strauss (510-504-4765, danjeffstrauss@gmail.com)
Friends of Wadi Foquin: Upcoming Events
First Sunday and Third Weekend of Each Month
The LMUMC Peace in Palestine–Friends of Wadi Foquin Circle warmly invites you to join several meaningful upcoming events:
Interfaith Pilgrimage:
Divest from War, Invest in Life
Saturday, May 9, 8:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m., Oakland
Walk with us as people of faith to sing, walk, and pray in this public witness calling for an end to military cargo shipments from Oakland to Israel, supporting the Oakland People’s Arms Embargo.
For more information and to RSVP, visit the event page here.
Steadfast Friendship & Spiritual Solidarity — 10-Year Celebration of FWF
Saturday, May 23, 2:00–4:30 p.m., Livermore Asbury UMC
Celebrate a decade of faithful partnership at this special gathering featuring Bishop Sandra Olewine (Cal-Nev Annual Conference) and other special guests. Enjoy fragrant tea, homemade Palestinian treats, and community fellowship.
Reserve a spot at the LMUMC table by contacting Deacon Ken or another PiP–FoWF member, or RSVP individually/host a table HERE. Deadline: May 10.
Feeding the Hungry as an Antiracist Practice
Saturday, May 16 (register by May 12)
Old First Presbyterian Church AND online
Join the West Region Antiracism Group to learn about the intersection of food insecurity and structural racism. The event is sponsored by West Region Antiracism Group and will feature speakers Shakirah Simley and Marchon Tatmon. It will also include breakout group discussions and opportunities to connect our work to broader antiracism efforts.
This is a HYBRID event. To attend online or in-person, REGISTER HERE.
For thos attending in-person, validated parking is available at Old First Garage, 1725 Sacramento Street. Public transit is also available. Click here for a downloadable flyer to share.
Be part of the magic: Homestay & Volunteer for the Golden Gate Festival 2026!
July 13–18, 2026
Piedmont East Bay Children’s Choirs is announcing a call for homestay hosts and volunteers for the 13th Golden Gate International Choral Festival, taking place July 13–18, 2026. They will welcome thirteen choirs and approximately 200 visiting youth singers from around the world and are seeking families to provide homestays (typically in pairs) and community volunteers to assist with rehearsals, concerts, transportation, and hospitality. Hosts provide housing, meals, and transportation while volunteers support logistics and help create a warm festival atmosphere that fosters cultural exchange and lasting friendships.
No special facilities are required—any welcoming home or a few hours of volunteer time make a meaningful difference.
For more information, CLICK HERE.
Celebrating May Birthdays
Sunday, May 3rd
This Sunday, May 3rd, we will be honoring everyone who will be celebrating their birthdays in May. There will be a birthday cake for all to share during fellowship time immediately following Worship.
Food 4 Thought Begins New Study Series on May 3rd
First Sunday of Each Month at 6:00 PM
Edwards Room at LMUMC
The Food 4 Thought small group will gather on Sunday, May 3rd, for a potluck supper and to begin a new 12-month study series titled “Thinking About Religion and Violence”.
Everyone is welcome to attend!
Please CLICK HERE to learn more about the topics in the new series.
Membership & Baptism Class Invitation
Are you new to Lake Merritt United Methodist Church? Are you feeling called to take the next step in your faith journey? Whether you are exploring baptism, considering church membership, or simply wanting to learn more about Lake Merritt UMC, you are warmly invited to join our three-week Membership & Baptism Class.
Together, we will reflect on what it means to a United Methodist, explore the meaning of baptism, and learn how we live out our faith as an inclusive Christian community—feeding the spiritual and physical hunger of Oakland.
Class Schedule:
Wednesday, April 22 7pm (Zoom)
Wednesday, April 29 7pm (Zoom)
Sunday, May 3 11:45 am (In Person, after worship)
May Events with our OCT Partners
Interested in expanding your impact, your reach, and your fun? If so, check out the events being held in conjunction with our ecumenical church partners through OCT (Oakland Churches Together). They are meaningful opportunities to join with other like-minded people and churches to make a difference in our local community. All are welcome!
For more details, click HERE.
For any questions, please contact Marlene Yamashita (925-286-9682, maryamca@att.net) or Dan Strauss (510-504-4765, danjeffstrauss@gmail.com)
Webinar Series: “Racial Justice: A Mandate to Our Discipleship”
Session 3: Racial Justice & Our Methodist Heritage
May 5, 2026 from 10 AM – 11:30 AM
Register Now for Session 3: Racial Justice & Our Methodist Heritage of our “Racial Justice: A Mandate to Our Discipleship” Webinar Series!
This webinar is FREE of charge.
Our General Secretary, Rev. Dr. Giovanni Arroyo, will facilitate a conversation with Dr. Ashley Boggan, General Secretary of the General Commission on Archives and History.
This session will trace the development of the racial justice mandate within the broader story of the United Methodist Church, uncovering its theological roots and historical context.
Together, we will examine how the Church’s constitutional commitment to racial justice emerged from a legacy marked by segregation and reunion, and explore the racial justice mandate as both a necessary corrective and a sacred covenant shaping our witness today.
REGISTER HERE
If you missed the first two sessions, you can watch the recordings below on YouTube:
Session 1: Actively Engaging Racial Justice in Local Congregations
Session 2: Racial Justice & Its Implications for Today
Friends of Wadi Foquin: Upcoming Events
First Sunday and Third Weekend of Each Month
The LMUMC Peace in Palestine–Friends of Wadi Foquin Circle warmly invites you to join several meaningful upcoming events:
Interfaith Pilgrimage: Divest from War, Invest in Life
Saturday, May 9, 8:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m., Oakland
Walk with us as people of faith to sing, walk, and pray in this public witness calling for an end to military cargo shipments from Oakland to Israel, supporting the Oakland People’s Arms Embargo.
For more information and to RSVP, visit the event page here.
Steadfast Friendship & Spiritual Solidarity — 10-Year Celebration of FWF
Saturday, May 23, 2:00–4:30 p.m., Livermore Asbury UMC
Celebrate a decade of faithful partnership at this special gathering featuring Bishop Sandra Olewine (Cal-Nev Annual Conference) and other special guests. Enjoy fragrant tea, homemade Palestinian treats, and community fellowship.
Reserve a spot at the LMUMC table by contacting Deacon Ken or another PiP–FoWF member, or RSVP individually/host a table HERE. Deadline: May 10.
Sunday, May 3 from 12 PM – 5 PM
Buena Vista United Methodist Church
2311 Buena Vista Avenue at Park Street
Join for a joyful community celebration filled with delicious food, vibrant cultural performances, and activities for all ages. You’ll have the chance to learn from inspiring local leaders, explore unique displays, and enjoy an afternoon of connection and fun. Bring your friends and family and be part of a lively gathering that celebrates heritage, community, and shared spirit.
? ACILEP Immigration Updates
Wednesday, May 6 at 5:30 PM
Join this free virtual workshop! Attorneys from ACILEP will share important information to help you:
✔️ Understand your risk of being arrested by ICE
✔️ Make a plan to follow in case of an arrest in your family or community
✔️ Understand the current situation regarding ICE activity in our county
?️ Date: Wednesday, May 6th
⏰ Time: 5:30 p.m.
? Location: Online
Register here: https://bit.ly/4mM2VeL
Feeding the Hungry as an Antiracist Practice
Saturday, May 16 (register by May 12)
Old First Presbyterian Church AND online
Join the West Region Antiracism Group to learn about the intersection of food insecurity and structural racism. The event is sponsored by West Region Antiracism Group and will feature speakers Shakirah Simley and Marchon Tatmon. It will also include breakout group discussions and opportunities to connect our work to broader antiracism efforts.
This is a HYBRID event. To attend online or in-person, REGISTER HERE.
For thos attending in-person, validated parking is available at Old First Garage, 1725 Sacramento Street. Public transit is also available. Click here for a downloadable flyer to share.
Membership & Baptism Class Invitation
Are you new to Lake Merritt United Methodist Church? Are you feeling called to take the next step in your faith journey? Whether you are exploring baptism, considering church membership, or simply wanting to learn more about Lake Merritt UMC, you are warmly invited to join our three-week Membership & Baptism Class.
Together, we will reflect on what it means to a United Methodist, explore the meaning of baptism, and learn how we live out our faith as an inclusive Christian community—feeding the spiritual and physical hunger of Oakland.
Class Schedule:
Wednesday, April 22 7pm (Zoom)
Wednesday, April 29 7pm (Zoom)
Sunday, May 3 11:45 am (In Person, after worship)
COMPLETE THIS FORM TO REGISTER
To sign up, please complete the registration form, and the Zoom link will be provided upon registration. If you have any questions, please email Pastor Sunae at Pastor@lakemerrittumc.org. All are welcome—we look forward to journeying with you!
LMUMC Youth Group
First Sunday and Third Weekend of Each Month
We’re excited to share that our Youth Group meets twice a month and welcomes all youth ages 14–18 to join us.
Our gatherings will include:
Scripture Study: First Sunday of each month during service
Fun Activity: Third weekend of each month
If you know a teen who might be interested, we would love to have them join us!
For more information, please contact:
Aide Flores (510-876-1730)
Andrew Champion (510-435-5567)
Sign up to Volunteer with Our Food Pantry
Friday, April 24 and Saturday, April 25
Fourth Saturday of every month
Our Food Ministries invite members of the congregation and the public to volunteer with our monthly food pantry. 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 Saturday, volunteers will facilitate food distribution (8 AM – 10 AM).
If you are interested in serving through our ministries, click HERE.
Friends of Wadi Foquin: Upcoming Events
First Sunday and Third Weekend of Each Month
The LMUMC Peace in Palestine–Friends of Wadi Foquin Circle warmly invites you to join several meaningful upcoming events:
Book Launch: A Chronicle of Our Land
April 24, 2026, 7:00 p.m. at LMUMC
This powerful new book shares the story of WF through the voice of one villager. The evening will include a conversation with the author and publisher, followed by a book signing. Proceeds from book sales will support the ongoing work of Friends of Wadi Foquin.
RSVP HERE
Interfaith Pilgrimage: Divest from War, Invest in Life
Saturday, May 9, 8:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m., Oakland
Walk with us as people of faith to sing, walk, and pray in this public witness calling for an end to military cargo shipments from Oakland to Israel, supporting the Oakland People’s Arms Embargo.
For more information and to RSVP, visit the event page here.
Steadfast Friendship & Spiritual Solidarity — 10-Year Celebration of FWF
Saturday, May 23, 2:00–4:30 p.m., Livermore Asbury UMC
Celebrate a decade of faithful partnership at this special gathering featuring Bishop Sandra Olewine (Cal-Nev Annual Conference) and other special guests. Enjoy fragrant tea, homemade Palestinian treats, and community fellowship.
Reserve a spot at the LMUMC table by contacting Deacon Ken or another PiP–FoWF member, or RSVP individually/host a table HERE. Deadline: May 10.
Sunday, May 3 from 12 PM – 5 PM
Buena Vista United Methodist Church
2311 Buena Vista Avenue at Park Street
Join for a joyful community celebration filled with delicious food, vibrant cultural performances, and activities for all ages. You’ll have the chance to learn from inspiring local leaders, explore unique displays, and enjoy an afternoon of connection and fun. Bring your friends and family and be part of a lively gathering that celebrates heritage, community, and shared spirit.
