Great location right on Lake Merritt but it doesn't use the location at all. Is certainly lighter than if it had been a concrete monstrousity without the extensive windows, but really nothing special. Worst of all it now takes land off the tax rolls and Oakland needs the tax money far more than it needs another church dispensing fairy tales

While on a short trip to San Francisco we made a point to travel over to Oakland to see this newly opened cathedral designed by the well-known New York firm of Skidmore, Owings & Merrill. And, I was most glad we did. Situated on the northwest shore of Lake Merritt it definitely makes a bold statement.

The architecture is a radical shift from cathedrals of old as seen throughout Europe and the rest of the world both in it's exterior design as well as interior functions. In fact, I was struck by how very non-traditional everything about the layout was for a Catholic church, for example having the choir in a semi-circle at the front end behind the alter. Except for a few hints it could easily be a church of any denomination. And yet, looking closer and reading more about the architect's vision, you learn that it is filled with design elements that are religious-based and steeped in symbols of the church from ancient times.

The design is a very clean, modern look that is dominated by the theme of light. The projected window of Christ taken from a 12th century image found in the Chartres Cathedral is especially effective as is the interplay of the louvers and roof elements. The mausoleum downstairs is beautifully done and definitely worth a visit as well.

The cathedral is part of a large complex of buildings including an underground parking structure, plaza, gift shop, outdoor fountain, and rectory. Cross over to the lake to get nice overview pictures but unfortunately there is a very ugly building behind it that ruins much of the drama of the building so choose your camera views carefully.

There is a daily tour at 1:00pm on Mondays-Fridays. In addition, there is an advertised short organ concert on the 2nd and 4th Tuesdays. Unfortunately, although we were told the organ would be played the day we were there, we waited in vain and finally told apparently they had changed the schedule which was a shame.

This is a definite visit for the architecture fan, especially those interested in religious spaces. Much of the design is quite successful and innovative and you will definitely enjoy your visit.

No, this cathedral cannot compare to Notre Dame, Chartres, Rheims.
It was designed for the new century, as was the new one in Los Angeles.
When we walked inside the first time, the gigantic image of Christ took our breath away. You should arrive at 1 PM for the free guided tour. All of our out of town guests come away impressed; some ask to return. Wife and I plan to be interred in the crypt below . Hopefully, not soon !

If you go, take the guided tour. I was amazed and moved by this beautiful cathredral (even though not Catholic) and the work the church does for the community in the Oakland area..make sure to go down the stairs to the burial sites..and visit the the gift shop!! Combine that with lunch at the Lake Merritt Boat House, and it will make for a nice outing! ck ahead for concerts....