Laguna Beach United Methodist Church - Lake Forest Campus
Methodist · Contemporary worship · Lake Forest, CA
- Location
- Lake Forest, California 92630
- Denomination
- Methodist
- Worship style
- Contemporary
- Size
- Mid-size
- Ministries & emphasis
- Contemporary, Expository Preaching, Kids Ministry, Youth Ministry, Small Groups
- Google rating
- ★ 4.9 (14 reviews)
- Kids ministry
- Yes
Official websiteSermons on YouTubeStatement of faith / beliefs
What visitors say
This is a lovely church nestled in the picturesque hills of South Laguna Beach. The God-given natural beauty of the hill, garden and Pacific Ocean views from the sanctuary is rivaled only by the caring, charismatic and vibrant minister (Pastor Lynn Francis), inclusive, affirmational culture (a UMC Reconciling Ministry), friendly people, incredible music program (including both traditional and contemporary offerings), professionally curated children's, youth and family ministry (including Sunday school for children and youth from four years old through Junior High, Nursery Care for infants to children three years of age, annual summer Vacation Bible School week for children four years old through fifth grade, Messy Church, a creative, interactive, intergenerational monthly gathering held on Sunday afternoon or evening - accompanied by a meal!), and the kind, helpful and efficient staff. The Easter sunrise service at Main Beach is a stunning way to begin one of the holiest days of the Christian year, sometimes accompanied by dolphins and other local fauna. Coffee and sweet delicacies on the patio after worship, and occasional festive lunches, provide enjoyable opportunities for additional fellowship. The vibe is a warm, welcoming and uplifting blend of traditional Methodism meets Beach Cities casual. LBUMC is active in outreach ministries both locally in Laguna Beach and its surrounding communities in south Orange County (annual Change the World Sunday, the Alternative Sleeping Location monthly dinner for the unhomed, the Friendship Shelter and the Illumination Foundation to name a few) and globally (UMCOR, the United Methodist Committee for Relief, Africa University in Tanzania, and Earthkeepers, a United Methodist Global Ministries Project supporting environmental initiatives in 45 countries). Laguna Beach United Methodist Church colorfully lives out the core beliefs of the UMC as embraced by it's Open Hearts Open Minds Open Doors theological perspective, the LBUMC mission statement, "Our mission is to 'Bring God’s Love To Life' through worship, study and outreach to the community and the world", and the mantra "With Christ as our inspiration, worshipping together as one loving, inclusive body, we will bring God's love to life through prayers, presence, gifts, service and witness." As a 26-year congregant, I am clearly not the most unbiased reviewer, but this tranquil refuge continues to keep me coming back for more, and excited to see what comes next. Additional information may also be accessed via social media, on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter. For your convenience, the service is live-streamed on-line at 10:00 a.m. every Sunday morning, as well as recorded and available on the website for subsequent viewing. I highly recommend experiencing this unique place for yourself; who knows, it just may be life-changing. A progressive, diverse congregation, that also has an incredible 180-degree view of the ocean from the sanctuary. They're very active in social justice issues, including being a Reconciling Congregation, which means they believe in equality in society and in the church for LGBTQ people. Also active in poverty ministries like supporting the food bank and supporting homeless ministries. Their motto or slogan is "Bringing Love to Life", and "Open Hearts, Open Minds, Open Doors", and they mean it. Best church I've ever been to! I love how inclusive and welcoming everyone is, which is the way it should be when searching for a church. This church really seems to live by the principles that are the most important. Plus, you get a view of a beautiful Pacific Ocean! 😎🙏 LBUMC is a wonderful church - a friendly, inclusive congregation, a kind and dynamic pastor, and an AMAZING view of the ocean from the sanctuary! The motto "Open Hearts, Open Minds, Open Doors" really rings true - everyone will receive a hearty and genuine welcome no matter who you are, where you're from, or who you love. Laguna Beach United Methodist Church has been an all around great experience. The church members are extremely welcoming and inviting and made me feel right at home after moving to the area from the east coast in 2012. Pastor Mandy Flemming, who has been at LBUMC for just over a year now has been a breath of fresh air for the church and her faithful approach to ministry has filled the pews with new members and younger families. I'd highly recommend LBUMC to anyone looking for a church to call home.
Is Laguna Beach United Methodist Church - Lake Forest Campus right for me?
Laguna Beach United Methodist Church - Lake Forest Campus may be a good fit if you're looking for contemporary worship, a Methodist church, a church with a kids ministry in Lake Forest. Every church feels different in person — plan to visit a Sunday service, and check the church's website for current service times.
Take the free 2-minute Soul Signature quiz and get churches ranked by worship style, teaching, and family needs.