Holy Names University – McLean Chapel

This beautiful chapel is on a mountain top of Holy Names University in Oakland and the church patio overlooks the entire San Francisco Bay. I actually came here for 5:00pm daily mass on Monday before my grad school class started and was plesantly surprised by the welcoming and unpretentious atmosphere.
The priest’s homily was very inclusive and in fact, he even asked us to faith share (share our own experience) of the day’s Gospel reading during mass. In a Catholic church, it is very rare for a priest to do this thus I have a whole new found respect for this tiny, but mighty chapel.
The congregation was all smiles, especially during the sign of peace. I got friendly smiles, handshakes and hugs from people I have never met, yet it didn’t seem wierd at all. The priest even thanked me for coming to mass.
I definitely recommend this place for those who may just need a change in scenery when it comes to Catholic church going. I look forward to coming back next Monday!