Welcome to CCUMC
Situated in the heart of Oakland's Chinatown, CCUMC is multi-generational in age and diverse in cultural heritage. We have many wise members who have lived long and enriching life to the little members who are just beginning to take their first steps. Our church family at CCUMC is also comprised of many who are new to this country but also those who are fourth (or more)-generation born in America and even the Bay Area. To meet the needs of this diversity, CCUMC is made up of two parallel language ministries: the Chinese-speaking Congregation, and the English-speaking Congregation. These two congregations have separate ministry councils which are led by dedicated members who focus on the needs specific to each congregation.
As part of the United Methodist Church, CCUMC seeks to open hearts, open doors, and open minds through active engagement with our world. Following the tradition of John Wesley and the founders of United Methodism, we place primary emphasis on Christian living, on putting faith and love into action, and endeavor to make what John Wesley referred to as "practical divinity" as a hallmark of our church's life.
We invite you to explore and learn more about our life together in Christ.
Who are United Methodists?
United Methodists come in all sizes, shapes, colors, dispositions, outlooks and life experiences, but they share a unique outlook forged in the shared experience of a church and a nation born in a century of remarkable change. No matter how or where they serve Jesus Christ around the world, United Methodists do God’s work in a unique connectional covenant. Our theological traditions are steeped in the Protestant Reformation and Wesleyanism, and similar ecclesiastical structures and relationships that date back almost two hundred years. John Wesley and the early Methodists saw their work in the simplest, most uncomplicated terms: Do all the good you can, to all the people you can, in all places you can. We are dedicated to a life of Christian purpose – a life of participation and personal responsibility, of generosity, sacrifice and self-restraint, responding to the call of Jesus Christ.
Today we speak many languages and live in many countries – with different cultures, ethnic traditions, national histories and understandings of Christian faith and practice. We are a covenant community, concerned about God’s children everywhere.
In life’s clouds of doubt and division, we see the sunlight of God’s purpose that brings healing, hope and harmony. We love worship, study of God’s word, music, church suppers, and a sense of community, a sense of belonging. We welcome people of faith into our churches, and people who are searching for answers to life’s tough questions, too, because we know what it’s like to fee alone and unsure… to need a welcoming place with open hearts, open minds, open doors. We roll up our sleeves and say, "Let’s get to work," as we answer the call to make disciples of Jesus Christ. We live the promise we made the day we joined The United Methodist Church… the promise of our prayers, our presence, our gifts and our service.