A Diverse Congregation on Kane Concourse
Church by the Sea sits at 1000 Kane Concourse in Bay Harbor Islands, a small town tucked between Miami Beach and the Atlantic. The congregation describes itself with a long list of words: loving, welcoming, diverse, caring, family, accepting, peaceful, musical, open, supportive, community-minded, helpful, compassionate, hopeful, unified, friendly, and kind. Beneath that list is a clear conviction: "Whoever you are and wherever you are on life's journey, you are welcome here."
The church is a local congregation of the United Church of Christ. Members and friends describe their shared life as an ongoing spiritual search for deeper meaning. They seek to live by the will of God, offering care and compassion through acts of service, and striving to bring wholeness, dignity, and justice to all people by sharing the love of God exemplified in the life and teachings of Jesus Christ.
Sunday Worship at 10:30
Worship gathers every Sunday at 10:30 a.m. at the Kane Concourse campus. The service is described as exciting and joyful, blending scripture, music, and reflection in a way that is uplifting, soulful, and thought-provoking. Worship begins with all ages together. After the opening music and prayer, children who wish to attend church school are invited to do so, and children are also welcome to stay throughout the service if they or their parents prefer.
On the first Sunday of each month, the congregation celebrates Communion. Gluten-free bread and 100% grape juice are served so that all can feel welcome at God's table, regardless of age or circumstances. The first Sunday is also typically marked as a special Communion service, and other Sundays often take a thematic shape, honoring Hispanic Heritage Month, World Communion, Pentecost, Pride, Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month, Women's History Month, Cinco de Mayo, graduates and educators, and other occasions throughout the year. A meditative service also appears periodically in the rotation.
A Spanish-language service, Servicio Dominical, is offered on selected Sundays, reflecting the bilingual character of the surrounding community.
Music That Travels to Carnegie Hall
Music is an integral part of worship at Church by the Sea, and the church's music ministry is one of the things it is best known for. The Chancel Choir has performed at Carnegie Hall and Lincoln Center in New York, and every Sunday the choir enriches worship with harmonies that uplift the spirit. Music at the church is described as beautiful and diverse, drawing on traditional hymns and contemporary songs alike to celebrate the many ways music connects people to God and to one another.
Twice a year, during Christmas and Lent, the entire worship service is dedicated to music, featuring the full choir with orchestral accompaniment. Throughout the year the church also hosts concerts that highlight both sacred and contemporary works, bringing the community together through shared joy and artistry. Music lessons are offered for both children and adults, helping participants discover or deepen their gifts.
The Minister of Music, Harold Dioquino, leads the Chancel Choir, teaches piano and voice, and conducts a local Filipino choir. He holds a music degree with a major in Piano from the University of the Immaculate Conception in Davao City, Philippines.
Children, Youth, and Summer Camp
"Every child is a child of God" is the conviction that shapes the children's and youth ministry. Each Sunday during worship, church school is offered for infants through eighth grade, with creative lessons, songs, and stories that bring faith to life. Children are also welcomed to remain in the sanctuary with their families.
A week-long summer camp serves ages five through twelve, weaving together crafts, scripture stories, music, and outdoor adventures. Middle and senior high youth groups meet on Wednesday evenings from 5:00 to 8:00 p.m. for young people in grades six through twelve, providing safe and inclusive spaces to connect, share, and grow through fellowship and service.
Jeana Bartroff serves as Minister of Children and Family Programs. An art educator who has been part of the church for more than seven years, she has helped expand children's and family programming, teaches high school students, and coordinates collaborative art projects that interpret God's love through creativity. Her ministry weaves together faith, imagination, and community.
Adult Programs, Outreach, and Service
Adults of all ages at Church by the Sea find ways to learn, serve, and connect. The Adult Programs Ministry offers opportunities through community outreach, service projects, small groups, and fellowship gatherings. Hands-on service is a particular strength. Members volunteer with Habitat for Humanity to help build safe, stable homes for families in need, partner with local organizations to provide meals and compassion for those experiencing hunger, and stand alongside migrant workers in the wider community. Holiday giving programs bring joy to families and individuals during the Christmas season.
On Wednesday afternoons from 2:00 to 3:00 p.m., a Prayer Shawl Knitting and Discussion Group gathers with Rev. Rob. Participants learn to knit prayer shawls for others, and no knitting experience is required. The group is as much about conversation and connection as it is about crafting.
Pastoral Care and the Pastoral Team
The pastoral team is shared by a husband-and-wife ministry. Rev. Robert W. Asinger has served the congregation since January 2010, when he was called to Church by the Sea after previous pastorates in the greater Boston area. He holds a Master of Divinity from Harvard Divinity School and a Bachelor of Science in Biology from Davidson College in North Carolina. He is known for his sense of humor and his background in science, which he uses especially in children's sermons and preaching.
Rev. Dr. Barbara A. Asinger brings extensive experience in human services and has served as a chaplain and lecturer in Boston. She holds both a Master of Divinity and a Doctorate in Theology and is passionate about walking alongside people in their spiritual journeys and helping them encounter God's presence in everyday life.
The pastoral care ministry provides compassionate support through prayer, conversation, and presence during times of transition, challenge, or joy, offering connection when it matters most.
Life Events in the Sanctuary
The church's sanctuary and gathering spaces are available for weddings, baptisms, vow renewals, family celebrations, and other meaningful occasions. Couples are welcomed to exchange vows surrounded by love and light in a sanctuary designed for a sacred commitment before God and community. Baptisms are celebrated as the first sacrament of faith in a nurturing, family-centered service, with clergy honored to guide families through the moment.
Birthday celebrations, anniversary parties, vow renewals, baby showers, and family reunions can all be hosted in the church's welcoming spaces, with the facilities team helping to make the day run smoothly.
What to Expect on Your First Sunday
The church invites visitors with the simple words, "You are welcome here." Sunday worship begins at 10:30 a.m. There is no dress code and no pressure to participate beyond what feels comfortable; come as you are.
Free parking is available in the main church garage, including handicap-accessible spots. If the garage is full, free parking is also available in the office lot next door. Additional paid options include the Bay Harbor Islands Municipal Parking Garage on 95th Street, public street parking nearby, and a lot across from the church on 95th Street.
Church school is offered for infants through eighth grade during worship, but children are equally welcome to stay in the sanctuary with their families. Communion on the first Sunday uses gluten-free bread and 100% grape juice, so that everyone can take part regardless of age or circumstance.
The church office is open Monday through Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Worship services are livestreamed, so those who cannot attend in person can join online. For those interested in learning more or becoming part of the congregation, a New Member Form is available, and a team member will reach out within 24 to 48 hours.