Our Story

Los Gatos’ first church took root in 1866 beneath the shade of an oak tree.

We’ve been around since 1866, but we don’t worship like it’s 1866! Back then we gathered under an oak tree to sing of God’s love. Today we gather in our third sanctuary, which stands across from where that great oak tree lived for over 150 years.

Then we sang from hymnals with no accompaniment at all. Today we have two worship services accompanied by every instrument and music in many styles. We use video, dance, poetry, and art to create a multi-sensory experience connecting mind, body and soul to the presence of God.

Then we dressed in our “Sunday finest.” Today we can come as we are in jeans, ties and everything in between.

Then we arrived by horseback or carriage. Today we are more likely to get here by electric vehicle, bicycle or our own two feet. Either way, reducing our carbon footprint still matters!

Some things have changed over the years, but many of our values and commitments remain the same.

Oak tree services

Los Gatos’ first church

Today’s church

1866

1889

1965

The 1889 building on Church Street.

Los Gatos United Methodist today.

Our Mission

LGUMC is a multi-generational, reconciling Christian community with a mission “to grow as followers of Jesus Christ who live God’s Love in the world.” We are a diverse community - we don’t look alike, think alike, or believe that we should, but we are united in our love for God and our desire to make a difference in the world through the Spirit of Christ’s Love.

We believe that following Christ is a lifelong journey of discovery that invites us to belong through worship, grow in Christ, and serve with love. No matter who you are or where you are on your journey of faith, LGUMC invites you to belong, grow and serve in the Spirit of Christ’s Love!

LGUMC is a community experience where all are welcome. Human beings are made for connection. We become most deeply and fully alive when we are actively engaged with God, one another, and our own best selves. LGUMC invites you to belong through inspiring worship, fellowship events, and small group experiences.

Belong

Spiritual growth is one of our core values at LGUMC. Our community offers multiple long and short-term small group experiences for you to grow in both  your understanding and experience of Christian love and faith. Whether it is an extended Bible Study, a meditation experience, support group, or one-time class on a timely social concern, we offer a variety of ways to explore faith, connect with others, and grow in Christ.

Grow

The essence of Christ’s ministry was an all-embracing love that healed the world. That’s why church is more than what happens on Sunday mornings; it’s also who we are and what we do in the world each day. LGUMC invites you to find your God-given gifts and use them to serve others and make a difference in the world.

Serve

LGUMC is committed to:

Radical inclusion and amazing grace for all

Asking questions and continually learning

Valuing diversity of thought, experience, and perspectives of God

Serving the lost, lonely and marginalized as Jesus did, caring for God’s creation

Helping those in need

Living in gratitude and generosity

Creating a community where everyone can connect with the Source of Love, speak their truth, and serve with heart.

Living love in all that we do

A Reconciling Church: All Means All

LGUMC is a reconciling church, which welcomes all persons as Christ did regardless of age, race, gender, sexual orientation, cultural background, physical or mental health, family status, or financial circumstances.  

We became a reconciling church in April 1995; believing that all persons are recipients of God’s grace, that discrimination has no place in the church and that followers of Jesus Christ must move beyond judgment to love. 

This inclusive gospel witness is still at the heart of our mission as a church. We welcome ALL into full participation in the life of our congregation and invite anyone wishing to celebrate their marriage in the Spirit of Christ’s love to do so in our church facility.

Please visit the Reconciling Ministries Network website for more information.

We believe we come alive and follow Jesus best in a community of love, acceptance and support.

If you’re searching for hope and meaning, curious about God, or just open to the idea that there might be more to life than meets the eye, join us as we live God’s love and make this world a more beautiful and justice-filled place.